[Metro24] Conditions for the President of Seoul Metro Corporation

[Asia Economy Reporter Jong-il Park] Seoul Metro Corporation has welcomed a new president. Following the retirement of former president Kim Sang-beom on the 26th of last month, the corporation is preparing to appoint its third president since the 2017 merger.

Starting with the opening of the 7.8km Seoul Station to Cheongnyangni section of Subway Line 1 on August 15, 1974, Seoul Metro Corporation marks its 49th anniversary this year.

Notably, the corporation employs about 17,000 staff and serves as a vital public enterprise supporting the transportation needs of approximately 20 million residents in Seoul and the metropolitan area.

Seoul Metro plays such a crucial role that if it stops operating, transportation in Seoul and the metropolitan area would come to a standstill.

The process to select the head of this institution has begun. The Seoul Metro Corporation President Recommendation Committee consists of seven members from three organizations: Seoul City, the City Council, and the corporation itself. With two members each recommended by the city and the corporation, once the three members from the City Council are confirmed, the president recommendation process is expected to commence in February.

The president of the corporation must possess expertise in Seoul City's transportation policies and subway operations, as well as leadership skills that include the ability to communicate effectively with Seoul City and labor unions representing employees. Especially, leadership to handle crisis situations like the Itaewon tragedy is essential.

Having sufficient expertise regarding the history and role of Seoul Metro is necessary to lead the organization immediately after inauguration.

Moreover, since the corporation plays a significant role in Seoul City's transportation policy, a leader who shares Mayor Oh Se-hoon's administrative philosophy and can communicate smoothly is expected to demonstrate stable leadership after taking office.

Additionally, with the corporation recording a deficit of 964.4 billion won last year, the new president must have a vision to secure future revenue sources for the company.

Furthermore, since last year, the corporation has faced challenges such as protests by the Jeonjangryeon during commuting hours, causing inconvenience to many citizens, which must be addressed in some way.

Employees reportedly desire a leader who combines expertise, communication skills with Seoul City, and strong on-site execution capabilities.

Internally, the corporation hopes to appoint a president who can resolve the numerous pressing issues. Jong-il Park, Senior Reporter, Local Government Team, Social Affairs Department

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