South Korean transportation infrastructure evolution

South Korea is navigating a significant shift in its national transportation landscape, characterized by the expansion of rail networks and the simultaneous decline of bus services.

Data indicates a substantial reduction in intercity and express bus routes, which fell by 30.1% between 2015 and last year. This decline, alongside a 58.2% drop in passenger numbers over two decades, is attributed to the expansion of KTX and SRT high-speed rail networks and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The crisis has led to the closure or suspension of 44 private bus terminals since 2018. To prevent the isolation of rural residents, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport is considering designating certain high-publicity routes as ‘essential routes’ to maintain service despite low profitability.

In response to evolving mobility needs, the government has finalized the ‘4th Basic Plan for the Construction of Transfer Centers and Complex Transfer Centers (2026–2030)’. This plan aims to expand the national transfer center network to 65 locations by 2030, with a specific focus on reducing the infrastructure gap between the Seoul metropolitan area and regional provinces. The strategy includes doubling regional transfer centers and implementing ‘future-oriented transfer centers’ that utilize AI and mobility technologies to improve efficiency at major railway stations.