How Did Foreign Railway Traffic Nearly Double in South Korea in 2025?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
South Korea's railway services have seen a significant surge in foreign travelers, with numbers reaching close to 3 million in the first half of 2025. This article explores the factors behind this growth, including new initiatives by KORAIL and SRT to enhance the travel experience for international passengers.
Key Takeaways
- Foreign railway traffic in South Korea almost doubled in the first half of 2025.
- New initiatives by KORAIL and SRT have improved services for international travelers.
- Over 2.84 million foreign passengers utilized the railway system from January to June 2025.
- Innovations include an AI-based translation program and a multilingual website.
- The total number of foreign railway users is projected to exceed 6 million this year.
Seoul, July 20 (NationPress) The count of international travelers utilizing South Korea's railway network nearly hit 3 million in the first half of this year, a remarkable increase from two years ago, as reported by local railway authorities on Sunday.
Between January and June, a total of 85.09 million passengers utilized the railway services, with foreigners making up 2.84 million, or 3.3 percent of the total, according to SR, which manages the SRT high-speed train service, and Korea Railroad Corp. (KORAIL), which oversees KTX high-speed trains and standard trains.
The figure for foreign passengers in the first half shows a 13 percent increase from 2.5 million during the same timeframe in 2024 and a striking 99 percent rise from 1.43 million in the first half of 2023, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
Since July of last year, KORAIL has implemented a specialized ticket counter for foreign travelers at Seoul Station and has introduced an AI-based voice recognition translation program that supports 13 languages.
In November, KORAIL enhanced its multilingual website, enabling foreign passengers to select seats, arrange luggage delivery, and book rental cars more conveniently, eliminating language obstacles.
Furthermore, in May, SRT also introduced multilingual capabilities on its mobile app, facilitating ticket bookings and timetable inquiries in English, Chinese, and Japanese to better cater to international travelers.
If the current growth trajectory persists into the second half, the total count of foreign railway passengers is anticipated to exceed 6 million this year, an increase from 5.61 million in 2024 and 3.49 million in 2023.
Meanwhile, Hanwha Philly Shipyard, part of South Korea's Hanwha Group, which spans from chemicals to shipbuilding, is contemplating a bid for the U.S. Navy's combat support ship construction project, as announced on Sunday.
During a recent media session in Philadelphia, CEO David Kim mentioned that Hanwha is in ongoing discussions regarding participation in the initiative.
He also noted that an additional U.S. defense budget exceeding US$20 billion has been allocated for the construction of combat and support ships, with the Senate and House of Representatives deliberating on fund execution.
Point of View
It is evident that South Korea is making significant strides in enhancing its railway services for international travelers. The initiatives undertaken by KORAIL and SRT not only cater to the rising demand but also showcase the nation's commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for tourists. This growth in foreign railway traffic is a positive indicator for the tourism sector and reflects the country's efforts to improve its global appeal.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total number of foreign railway passengers in South Korea for the first half of 2025?
The total number of foreign railway passengers in South Korea for the first half of 2025 is approximately 2.84 million.
How does the current figure compare to previous years?
The figure has increased by 13% compared to 2.5 million in the same period of 2024 and shows a 99% rise from 1.43 million in the first half of 2023.
What initiatives have been implemented to assist foreign travelers?
KORAIL has introduced a priority ticket counter for foreign customers and an AI-based voice recognition translation program, along with a revamped multilingual website and mobile app.
What is the expected trend for foreign railway passengers in the second half of 2025?
If the current growth trend continues, the total number of foreign railway passengers is expected to exceed 6 million this year.
Who is considering bidding for the U.S. Navy's combat support ship project?
Hanwha Philly Shipyard is contemplating a bid for the U.S. Navy's combat support ship construction project.
