Saemangeum Development Authority Launches Pilot for On-Demand Transit Service

Kickoff for Future Mobility Blueprint with Hyundai Motor Group
DRT Pilot Operation for Industrial Complex Worker Commutes
"Saemangeum Needs a Future Transportation System Tailored to Its Unique Needs"

Saemangeum is embarking in earnest on establishing a future-oriented transportation system, including autonomous driving and on-demand transit services. This is an experimental approach to address the shortage of public transportation as Saemangeum's industrial complexes, tourism, and urban functions expand simultaneously.

The Saemangeum Development Agency held a kickoff meeting on the 20th at the Saemangeum Agency with Hyundai Motor Group and related organizations in attendance to discuss the "Study on the Introduction and Operation Plan of Advanced Transportation Services in Saemangeum." Photo by Saemangeum Development Agency

The Saemangeum Development Authority announced on May 20 that it held a kickoff briefing session at its headquarters on the "Study on the Introduction and Operation Plan of Advanced Transportation Services in Saemangeum," attended by Hyundai Motor Group and related organizations.

This study aims to improve transportation accessibility in the Saemangeum region and develop a system capable of responding to the growing demand for industrial and tourism activities. As more companies move into the Saemangeum National Industrial Complex, there has been a consistent call to enhance commuting and mobility convenience.

The research will focus on analyzing the feasibility of introducing advanced transportation services and related infrastructure, establishing priorities and phased expansion plans, and reviewing operational strategies for Demand Responsive Transport (DRT).

Of particular note is the pilot project for Demand Responsive Transport (DRT). DRT is a customized transportation service that allows users to travel to their desired locations by request, rather than following a fixed route. It has recently attracted attention as an alternative mode of transport in areas such as rural regions, new towns, and industrial complexes where conventional public transit networks are lacking.

The Saemangeum Development Authority plans to conduct a pilot operation focusing on the commuting needs of employees at companies in the Saemangeum Industrial Complex. Following a preliminary information session, the pilot will run from June through August, and the mobility data collected during this period will be used to establish a Saemangeum-specific transportation service model.

Although Saemangeum is being developed as a multi-functional area encompassing industrial, tourism, and residential sectors, it has been consistently evaluated as lacking a sufficient public transportation foundation. As a result, the government and local authorities have continuously reviewed the potential for introducing smart transportation systems.

In Korea, DRT has already been piloted in places like Sejong City, Jeju, and some new towns in Gyeonggi Province. Analyses indicate that these trials have been effective in supporting worker mobility in industrial complexes and addressing transportation blind spots.

Based on the findings of this study, the Saemangeum Development Authority plans to expand the operational area for DRT and gradually establish an integrated transportation system that connects to autonomous vehicle-based services in the future. Additionally, efforts are underway to formulate a public transportation plan for the Saemangeum area and secure the necessary associated budget.

Commissioner Moon Seongyo stated, "This research project is more than just providing mobility convenience; it is a process of creating a future-oriented transportation service environment," adding, "We hope it will lead to the establishment of a future mobility ecosystem unique to Saemangeum."

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