Republic of Korea
South Korea, officially the Republic of Korea, is a nation where ancient traditions meet modern technology. With a population of approximately 51,966,948 people spread across 100,413 square kilometers, it boasts one of the world's densest railway networks and is a global leader in high-speed rail infrastructure.
The capital city, Seoul (37°33′N 126°58′E), serves as the heart of this extensive rail system. Korean is the official language, and the country operates on Korea Standard Time (UTC+9). The national currency is the Korean Republic won (₩), with one won equaling about 0.00073 USD. South Korea's digital presence is marked by the Internet TLD ".kr," and its ISO 3166 country code is "KR."
The Railway System
High-speed rail in South Korea began with inspiration from Japan's Shinkansen. Construction of the first high-speed line between Seoul and Busan started in 1992, leading to the launch of commercial high-speed service on April 1, 2004. The primary operator, Korail, manages most of these high-speed lines. Another significant player is SRT, which runs its own high-speed trains and routes, occasionally sharing lines and stations with Korail despite past plans for a merger that never materialized.
Urban and regional lines also play a crucial role in the country's transportation network. The AREX line, for example, connects Incheon International Airport—the nation's largest—with Seoul, facilitating easy access for international travelers.
Line Types
South Korea's railway system is categorized into three types:
High-Speed Railway Lines: Operating at speeds of 300 km/h or more on most tracks.
- Gyeongbu HSR Line
- Honam HSR Line
- Suseo-Pyeongtaek HSR Line
Semi-High-Speed Railway Lines: Operating between 200 km/h and 300 km/h, these lines meet international standards for high-speed rail despite their categorization.
- Gyeonggang Line (Wonju–Gangneung)
- Jungang Line (Cheongnyangni–Dodam)
Conventional Lines: Operating at maximum speeds below 200 km/h on most tracks.
Tickets for these services can be purchased up to one month in advance, offering flexibility and convenience for both residents and visitors.
South Korea's commitment to expanding and improving its rail network not only enhances domestic connectivity but also sets a high standard in global rail transportation.