South Korea: Disruptions in Train and Subway Services Due to Ongoing Railway Workers' Strike
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Seoul, Dec 5 (NationPress) Several train and subway services in South Korea encountered delays and cancellations on Thursday following the commencement of an indefinite general strike by the unionized employees of the national railway operator.
In the capital region, subway lines 1, 3, and 4, alongside KTX high-speed trains and standard rail services, experienced disruptions as employees of the Korea Railroad Corp. (KORAIL) initiated the strike to advocate for improved wages and increased hiring, marking the first walkout since September 2023, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
At Seoul Station, an announcement alerted passengers to the cancellation of the 8:12 a.m. and 8:26 a.m. trains bound for Busan.
In addition, KTX-Sancheon trains departing from the southeastern cities of Masan and Pohang experienced delays of six minutes each.
During the busy morning rush hour, the platforms for Subway Line 1 were overcrowded with commuters, many of whom were anxious to catch the next arriving train after missing previous ones due to full capacity.
At Bupyeong Station in Incheon, west of Seoul, an office worker identified as Mr. Kim expressed frustration, stating he had no alternative means to reach work other than using the subway.
"I departed for work at the usual time, yet the train was delayed by 15 minutes," he shared.
A commuter named Mr. Park, who boarded at Yatap Station in Seongnam, south of Seoul, mentioned he had concerns regarding the strike but was pleased with the relatively uncongested subway ride.
"I just hope there are no significant disruptions, as I must rely on the subway for my daily commute to work," he added.
A KORAIL spokesperson noted that some delays in subway and train services during peak hours are typical and not necessarily linked to the general strike.
KORAIL is currently operating under an emergency transport protocol, deploying all available personnel and resources to mitigate traffic disruptions.
The government has also announced plans to establish a 24-hour joint transportation task force that will work with relevant agencies and local administrations until the railway strike concludes.
Despite last-minute negotiations failing to achieve a resolution, KORAIL and the union remain open to resuming talks if management alters its approach.
