Gimhae and Busan Cities Reach Compromise on Bus Route Closures and Alternatives

Gimhae and Busan cities have reached a consensus on the partial closure of the Gimhae-Busan intra-city bus and the establishment of alternative routes. The cities had previously held differing positions on the timing of the closure and the alternative routes.

Busan City initially proposed closing the Gimhae service route by the end of May, while Gimhae City suggested the end of June. Regarding the alternative route in the Busan area, Busan City advocated for the Daejeo-Gangseo-gu Office Station, whereas Gimhae City preferred the Gupo-Deokcheon Station. The two cities have now agreed to accommodate Gimhae City's requirements, allowing for the operation of No. 1004, No. 123, and No. 127 routes and the establishment of four alternative routes to Deokcheon Station by Gimhae City. Busan City's demand for the Samgye-dong to Myeongji-dong route has also been accepted.

The cities have tentatively agreed to close the line in June, subject to the completion status of the Gangseo depot in Busan and the progress of alternative route operations in Gimhae. Gimhae City began recruiting bus operators on the 10th of this month and plans to launch the alternative routes in June.

In light of the agreement, Gimhae has withdrawn its application for adjustment to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport. Four of the seven Busan intercity bus routes (93 vehicles) between Gimhae and Busan will be discontinued, while three routes will remain in operation. Gimhae City will replace the abolished Busan Intercity Bus with 17 buses on four routes.

The two cities anticipate reducing chronic financial deficits and enhancing urban traffic flow by substantially cutting down long-distance routes while preserving some routes to minimize inconvenience to citizens. The agreement seeks to alleviate traffic congestion, tighten dispatch intervals, and promote convenient transfers with light rail and urban rail. The cities intend to expedite preparations for the new route system by confirming the operating system through working consultations and finalizing a reorganization plan while providing comprehensive information to citizens about the new route usage.