Wirye Line Tram opening delayed due to safety inspections

The opening of the Wirye Line tram, originally scheduled for December this year, has been postponed. Although construction is 97% complete with tracks, stations, and vehicles in place, additional safety procedures are required.

The delay stems from disagreements between agencies regarding the legal classification of sections where the tram shares space with pedestrians and automobiles. Approximately 1.2 km of the 5.4 km route involves shared space, including 13 intersections with general roads. This has led to disputes over whether the tracks should be treated as roads or railways, affecting the installation of safety signals and the timing of traffic safety reviews by the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency.

Following mediation by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, the Seoul Metropolitan Government has commenced a traffic facility safety diagnosis, aiming to complete it by March next year. Once the diagnosis is finished, the city will proceed with police safety reviews and comprehensive railway test runs. The Wirye Line features South Korea’s first wireless tram system, utilizing roof-mounted batteries to operate without overhead wires.