Rider Count Among Children Doubles Following Free Public Transit Policy
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Rider Count Among Children Doubles Following Free Public Transit Policy
□ The number of young transit users has risen by 100% within two years since the fare exemption for children took effect.
○ In October 2023, Busan Metropolitan City became the first in Korea to make all forms of mass transport, including subways, city buses, and neighborhood buses, free of charge for children.
○ The policy is part of the city’s broader public transit initiative aimed at helping the next generation grow familiar and comfortable with public transportation from an early age, encouraging continued ridership into adulthood.
□ In the 20 months prior to the policy’s introduction*, the number of minor passengers stood at 12.8 million; during the same period after implementation**, it surpassed 24 million—nearly a twofold increase over two years.
□ Three Catch! Teenieping-themed buses (Twinkleping, Shimmerping, Heartsping) will operate as regular city buses throughout October, offering both kids and grown-ups a fun, colorful attraction.
○ ▲ Route 506: Twinkleping Bus (Banyeo 4-dong ~ Dongnae Station ~ Busan Citizens Park), ▲ Route 44: Shimmerping Bus (Banyeo 3-dong ~ Busan Citizens Park ~ Danggam-dong), and ▲ Route 27: Heartsping Bus (Yongho-dong ~ Busan Station ~ Chungmu-dong)
Photo: Catch! Teenieping Bus
https://www.busan.go.kr/childcare/prtszero0106 (Korean)
