Seoul introduces discount on unlimited transit pass for young people
The Seoul Metropolitan Government is set to introduce a new discounted option for its unlimited transit pass, starting Saturday.
The Climate Card, launched on Jan. 27, offers access to all bus routes, subway lines and the city’s Ttareungyi bike-sharing service, at a standard monthly fee of just 65,000 won ($48.71).
In an effort to alleviate the financial burden on young individuals aged 19 to 34, the city government has announced a 12 percent discount on the transit pass. The discounted monthly fee for young people will be 55,000 won, or 58,000 won if the option for Ttareungyi is included.
Young individuals often receive a modest income during their initial foray into society, according to the city government. The discount initiative aims to alleviate the financial strain regarding transportation costs.
Since its launch, approximately 430,000 cards have been sold, with those in their 20s and 30s accounting for 50 percent of buyers — an indication of the strong demand among the younger generations.
The city government anticipates an additional budget of 35 billion won to 36 billion won per year for the implementation of the youth discount.
The discount for young people will be initially implemented as a pilot project from Saturday until June 30.
During this pilot period, discounts will be applied via a post-refund method. Users can opt for a retroactive refund by paying the standard 65,000 won and applying for a separate refund in July. Confusion with surrounding area Meanwhile, Gyeonggi Province’s participation in the unlimited transit pass still remains in question.
Even though many commuters travel frequently between Seoul, Gyeonggi and Incheon, those who depart from Incheon or Gyeonggi Province, excluding Gimpo, Guri and Gwacheon, are not covered by the pass, thereby causing confusion. Incheon and Gyeonggi Province are set to launch their own transit pass later this year.
During the extraordinary session of the Seoul Metropolitan Council on Wednesday, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon mentioned that the Climate Card was open to Gyeonggi Province from the beginning, and the ultimate decision to join rests with the province’s governor.
Oh also emphasized that the unlimited transit pass is not solely a policy created for Seoul citizens but also extends to residents of metropolitan areas, including Gyeonggi Province and Incheon.
“As time progresses, a comprehensive comparison of the merits and drawbacks of each transit pass will become possible, helping commuters to choose a transit pass,” he said.
Furthermore, he expressed the need for ongoing discussions regarding the expansion of Seoul’s boundaries by including other adjacent cities into the capital even after the April 10 general elections.
“We have established a task force with local governments expressing interest in transferring to Seoul, and are currently discussing the feasibility of integrating administrative districts,” Oh said.