Seoul Subway Extends Operation Until 2 AM for 'Jeya-ui Jong Event'

140 Trains Deployed on Subway Lines 1 to 8

Photo by Kang Jin-hyung aymsdream@

[Asia Economy Reporter Kiho Sung] Seoul Metro announced on the 29th that it will implement major measures such as extending subway operation hours during late-night hours, non-stop passage through Jonggak Station, and deployment of support personnel to ensure passenger safety in celebration of the ‘2022 New Year’s Eve Bell-Ringing Event’ held around Jongno on the 31st.

To facilitate the smooth return of participating citizens after the event, Seoul Metro will extend the operating hours of subway lines 1 to 8, which it operates, until 2 a.m. on January 1 (based on the last train time). Considering that operations usually end at midnight on weekends, this is an extension of two hours.

To operate for an additional two hours during late-night hours, Seoul Metro will deploy 140 trains on lines 1 to 8. Detailed timetables can be checked on the company’s official website.

Additionally, at the request of the Seoul Metropolitan Government, Jonggak Station on Line 1, which is closest to the event venue, will be passed through without stopping for two hours from 11 p.m. on the event day until 1 a.m. the next day. This safety measure is to encourage the use of other stations due to expected congestion inside the station caused by crowding. Police personnel will be deployed at Jonggak Station to guide and control passengers, and all entrances and exits will be closed. However, use of Jonggak Station for restroom access will be allowed.

Seoul Metro will deploy 119 support personnel to ensure safety, including at the headquarters situation room, Jonggak Station, and nearby stations such as City Hall Station (Line 1), Jongno 3-ga Station (Line 1), Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station, Anguk Station, and Gwanghwamun Station. These personnel will implement safety accident prevention measures and maintain order within the stations, maintain emergency communication systems with related agencies such as police and fire departments, and respond immediately in case of emergencies.

Pre-inspections in the fields of train operation, vehicles, and technology will also be strengthened overall. Until the 31st, inspections of train operation equipment will be intensified, and pre-inspections of electrical facilities and elevators will also be conducted to ensure safe use even if crowds gather on the event day.

Jo Gi-won, Director of Transport Operations at Seoul Metro, said, “As many citizens are expected to participate in the event welcoming the Year of the Black Rabbit 2023, we will do our utmost to ensure subway safety.” He added, “Please check the timetable in advance for safe and convenient use, and since the subway may be crowded on the day, we ask for your active cooperation with the staff’s guidance.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.