Busan pilots AI platform to detect dangerous escalator behavior

Busan Metropolitan City has launched a pilot program for an ‘AI-based escalator smart safety management platform’ at Centum City Station on Subway Line 2. Developed in collaboration with the Korea Elevator Safety Agency and Busan Transportation Corporation, the system utilizes AI video analysis technology to detect dangerous behaviors in real time.

The platform identifies five specific types of risky behavior: not using handrails, walking or running, leaning out of the escalator, moving in the opposite direction, and using strollers or large carriers. When these actions are detected, the system triggers warning lights and voice guidance to alert users and encourage compliance with safety rules.

This initiative follows data showing that of the 28 elevator-related accidents in Busan over the last five years, 15 occurred on escalators, often due to user negligence such as running or failing to use handrails. The city plans to verify the system's accuracy and effectiveness before considering a wider rollout and integration with integrated control systems.