Seoul village bus operators protest for fare hike

The Seoul Village Bus Transportation Business Association held a vehicle protest on May 9 to demand a minimum fare increase of 500 won. Protesters gathered in front of the Seoul Metropolitan Council, driving buses adorned with slogans calling for immediate fare adjustments.

Association Chairman Kim Yong-seung stated that the current fare of 1,200 won fails to cover rising operational costs, including labor, vehicle prices, and maintenance. He highlighted that due to Seoul's public transit transfer policy, the actual revenue received per passenger for those transferring to subways or city buses averages only about 600 won. The association reported a deficit exceeding 100 billion won and warned that many companies are considering closure.

Kim warned that deteriorating management conditions could lead to driver shortages, increased dispatch intervals, and safety management burdens, ultimately affecting Seoul citizens. The Seoul Metropolitan Government expressed caution, noting that raising village bus fares could trigger similar demands from other modes of transportation.