'Modu Card' for Public Transportation Fare Refund Surpasses 5 Million Users

Two Years Since Its Introduction in May 2024

The Metropolitan Transportation Commission under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced on April 14 that the number of users of the "Modu Card," which refunds public transportation fares, has surpassed 5 million. This milestone comes about two years after its introduction in May 2024.

Previously, the number of users exceeded 4 million in October last year, and it took only six months to reach 5 million. The ministry analyzed that this rapid growth was due to increased benefits, such as the introduction of a flat-rate system in January this year that provides unlimited reimbursement for transportation expenses exceeding a set amount.

On average, users spend about 63,000 won per month on public transportation and receive a refund of 21,000 won. Among teenagers and low-income groups, the average monthly refund was 22,000 won and 34,000 won, respectively. In particular, 440,000 people used the flat-rate option to receive a refund of 41,000 won, significantly reducing the overall burden of transportation costs.

Seoul city subway station ticket gate. Photo by Yonhap News

Meanwhile, the commission held a ceremony celebrating the 5 million user milestone at Seoul Post Tower on the same day. The event was attended by Land Minister Kim Yoon-duk, Jin Sung-joon, chairperson of the Special Committee on Budget and Accounts of the National Assembly, and the heads of 17 metropolitan and local governments. The ministry will sign work agreements with seven local governments, including Seoul and Busan, to integrate the senior citizen transportation card benefits provided by local governments into the Modu Card system.

Minister Kim stated, "We will continue to expand transportation options for local users and improve convenience so that this policy becomes one that is loved and empowering for everyone."

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