Dong-A University Seokdang Museum to Regularly Open 'Busan Jeoncha'

Published 26 Apr.2024 13:34(KST)

Updated 04 Aug.2025 14:18(KST)

From the 30th, every Tuesday to Friday, 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM, up to 20 people at the same time

The Seokdang Museum at Dong-A University will regularly open the 'Busan Tram (National Registered Heritage)' to visitors starting from the 30th.

Dong-A University Seokdang Museum regularly opens the Busan tram for public viewing.

The Busan Tram was manufactured in 1927 in Cincinnati, USA, and operated in Atlanta before being brought to Korea free of charge in 1952 through the U.S. aid organization.

In 1968, tram operations were discontinued nationwide, putting the Busan Tram at risk of being scrapped. However, Dr. Jeong Jae-hwan Seokdang, then president of Dong-A University, received it as a donation from Namsun Electric Company (the predecessor of Korea Electric Power Corporation).

Since then, Dong-A University has conducted preservation work on the Busan Tram three times, and it is currently exhibited outdoors on the Bumin Campus under the management of the Seokdang Museum.

Last year, the Seokdang Museum opened the interior of the tram to the public through the 'Busan Tram Special Exhibition' commemorating the 77th anniversary of Dong-A University's founding, but temporarily suspended the opening from November to protect the tram during the winter season.

Interior view of the nationally registered heritage 'Busan Jeoncha' housed at Dong-A University Seokdang Museum.

The regular opening hours are from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM every Tuesday through Friday, and viewing is not allowed on rainy days.

To preserve the tram, up to 20 visitors can experience riding it at the same time. Group visits can be arranged by contacting the museum.

Director Kim Ki-su said, “Through this opening of the Busan Tram, we hope local residents can actually ride the tram and share old stories, providing an opportunity to reflect on the value of fading modern heritage.”