Busan prepares emergency transport plan amid subway strike threat

The Busan Transportation Corporation labor union has announced a potential strike starting from the first train on May 23 if final negotiations fail on May 22. The dispute follows 18 rounds of collective bargaining and a failed mediation by the Busan Regional Labor Relations Commission. Key points of contention include staffing levels for the upcoming Yangsan Line extension and the responsibility of the primary contractor for subcontracted workers' working conditions.

In response, Busan Metropolitan City has established an emergency transport plan to minimize citizen inconvenience. If the strike proceeds, subway operations for Lines 1 through 3 will be maintained at approximately 75% of normal capacity. While service during morning and evening rush hours will remain at regular 4–5 minute intervals, off-peak service will see intervals increase to between 8 and 20 minutes. Line 4, which operates via automated unmanned systems, will continue to run at 100% capacity.

To support commuters, the city plans to suspend the car-use restriction day, increase city bus services, and deploy additional taxis near subway stations. If the strike is prolonged, city officials may be deployed to assist with station operations.