Korail faces scrutiny over KTX seat shortages and rail integration

During a National Assembly audit of Korail, lawmakers raised concerns regarding the growing gap between the surging demand for KTX high-speed rail services and the stagnant supply of available seats. Data revealed that while KTX passengers increased by approximately 83.1% between 2021 and 2023, seat supply grew by only 5.2%. Lawmakers urged the acceleration of infrastructure projects, such as the Pyeongtaek-Osong double-track construction, to expand transport capacity.

Additional criticisms were directed at the management of onboard amenities. Reports indicated that the average repair time for malfunctioning vending machines on KTX trains increased significantly, rising from roughly 8.6 days in 2023 to nearly 30 days by September this year.

The audit also saw intense political debate over the integration of KTX and SRT high-speed rail operations. The Democratic Party defended the integration as a way to reduce transportation costs for citizens and correct previous policies. Conversely, the People Power Party criticized the move as a rushed decision made to appease labor unions, warning that it could exacerbate Korail's mounting debt due to potential revenue losses from fare reductions.