One Station, One Route... Seoul Metro Expands Support for Transportation-Vulnerable Individuals

Seoul Metro announced on April 19, 2026, that it will implement a range of improvements this year for transportation-vulnerable individuals, including the expansion of accessibility facilities within subway stations and the enhancement of guidance features such as tactile paving. Under the so-called "2026 Action Plan to Improve Mobility for the Transportation-Vulnerable," the initiative aims to reduce inconvenience during the travel process for these individuals by improving the movement environment, providing tailored services, and establishing a subway culture that is friendly to the transportation-vulnerable, delivering comprehensive support across all areas.

A transportation card kiosk designed with a 'Barrier-Free' approach to ensure convenience for mobility-impaired individuals. Seoul City

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Last year, Seoul Metro completed the "One Station, One Route" initiative at all stations, ensuring 100% seamless movement from station entrances to platforms. Additionally, 10 accessibility facilities were installed at major stations such as Nowon Station and Gasan Digital Complex Station. As a result, these efforts have not only increased infrastructure but have also led to tangible improvements in user satisfaction.

To further improve convenience, Seoul Metro is strengthening tailored support based on the type of transportation-vulnerable user. In 2025, the company operated a total of approximately 1,200 guidance personnel, including 432 guides for visually impaired individuals (at 26 stations), 61 mobility support personnel (at 20 stations), 125 digital guides, and 582 senior elevator safety staff. This year, the number of guidance staff will be expanded to about 1,300 to enhance convenience for transportation-vulnerable individuals.

Additionally, 446 transportation card kiosks designed with a 'barrier-free' layout for convenient use by transportation-vulnerable individuals have been installed and are in operation across 273 stations. Features added include a low-profile screen for wheelchair users, a braille keypad and audio-guide earphone jack for visually impaired users, and an interface with large text, enabling intuitive use by seniors and those with low vision.

As of December 2025, approximately 2,000 people are using the text message service that provides notifications about the operational status of accessibility facilities. The "Ttota Subway" app also provides mobility information such as the distance between the platform and train, and the location of exit elevators.

Ma Haekeun, Head of the Operations Division at Seoul Metro, stated, "We are continuously improving convenience for transportation-vulnerable individuals by enhancing the movement environment and expanding tailored services. As mobility convenience is a basic right that should be enjoyed by all citizens, we will continue to improve facilities and services to create a subway environment that is accessible and convenient for everyone."

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