Seoul To Launch Shuttle Ferry Service On The Han River In March

Illustration of the shuttle ferry service on the Han River, Seoul. Source: Seoul Metropolitan Government)

JAKARTA - Seoul City Official, South Korea said on Tuesday, a shuttle ferry service connecting key points along the Han River during rush hour will start operating in March next year.

The city government initially planned to start the service in October, but postponed its launch due to delayed approval procedures for ferries batteries and other construction delays, officials said.

Under the service, which is officially named "Hagang Bus," eight ferries will operate between seven main points on the river during rush hour morning and evening, including Yeouido, Mangwon and Ttukseom on the north coast of the river, as well as Jamsil and Magok on the south coast.

From October to February, the city will carry out pilot operations involving ferries, river piers, travel routes, central control systems and labor to ensure service safety.

In February, the city will also invite residents to board the ferry during a free service simulation that will be carried out in accordance with actual service plans, city officials said.

The plan is that this mode of transportation will charge a fare of 3,000 won for one trip. The city government will allow passengers who have a Climate Card to use river buses. The card is a Seoul infinite transit ticket that was launched recently.

"This will not only provide a pleasant journey for residents, but will also contribute to overcoming the climate crisis through environmentally friendly public transportation," said Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon last February.

In its operations, this mode of transportation will stop at seven piers for one trip, namely Magok, Mangwon, Yeouido, Jamwon, Oksu, Ttukseom and Jamsil.

The location of the dock was chosen based on comprehensive considerations of regional characteristics, such as housing, business, trade and tourism. Factors such as demand for transportation, connectivity with other public transportation and accessibility are also considered.

Furthermore, this mode of transportation will serve passengers from 06.30 to 22.30 local time on weekdays. And at 09:30 to 22:30 local time on weekends and holidays.

During weekdays, this service will operate with an interval of 15 minutes during peak hours, from 06.30 a.m. to 09.00 a.m. and 18.00 a.m. to 20:30 p.m. out of that time and the weekend, the interval is 30 minutes.

The special express lines, which only stop at Magok, Yeouido and Jamsil, will operate 16 times during travel hours, giving a faster travel time of 54 minutes, compared to general routes that take 75 minutes.

"This city intends to increase its competitiveness by utilizing river buses as attractive tourism assets," said Mayor Se-hoon.