by Lee jonggu
Published 06 May.2026 09:59(KST)
Kim Byungwook, the Democratic Party candidate for Seongnam Mayor, has announced a pledge to expand the Seongnam-daero Central Bus-Only Lane system to the entire stretch of the road. The aim is to alleviate chronic traffic congestion on Seongnam-daero and establish an eco-friendly, smart transportation system centered on public transit.
On May 6, Kim stated that this pledge was prepared to proactively respond to the anticipated surge in traffic demand following future reconstruction and redevelopment projects across Seongnam City. Following his previously announced plans to expand urban railways, such as Seongnam Metro Lines 1 and 2, and reorganize the road traffic system, Kim explained that the core goal is to ensure punctual bus operations and maximize road use efficiency.
Currently, the central bus lane is being installed without delay in the Bokjeong-Moran and Moran-Namhansanseong sections, with the goal of beginning operation next year. Kim's plan involves expanding this system to cover the entire length of Seongnam-daero.
The newly expanded section will span 10.5 kilometers, connecting Ori, Jeongja, Seohyeon, Moran, and Bokjeong. Once completed, this route will directly link with the central bus lanes on Seoul’s Songpa-daero and Gangnam-daero, as well as with Sanseong-daero (from Moran to the entrance of Namhansanseong). This is expected to dramatically improve travel convenience for Seongnam residents commuting to Seoul and neighboring areas.
In addition, both bus stop facilities and vehicles will see qualitative improvements. The new bus stops will be built as "smart stops" equipped with heating and air conditioning, providing a more comfortable environment for citizens. All buses operating on this section will be replaced with eco-friendly electric buses, significantly reducing traffic pollution within the city center.
A concrete budget plan was also presented. For the 10.5-kilometer central bus lane expansion, Kim emphasized that the total installation cost of approximately 50 billion won will undergo thorough feasibility reviews, and that he will seek 50% funding from the national government, thereby minimizing Seongnam City’s financial burden.
Kim Byungwook stated, "In addition to expanding urban railways such as Seongnam Metro Lines 1 and 2, and reorganizing the road traffic system through new projects like the Seongnam East Loop Road, Tancheon Underground Road, and Bundang-Pangyo Connector Road, I will also push forward with expanding the central bus lane system. Through these efforts, I am committed to achieving a dramatic transportation innovation for Seongnam City."
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