Busan, South Korea – In a strategic move to enhance regional connectivity and stimulate economic growth, the cities of Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongnam Province have jointly submitted a proposal for the expedited construction of two major metropolitan railways. This collaborative effort aims to address regional imbalances and significantly improve transportation infrastructure.
The joint proposal focuses on the early establishment of the Busan-Yangsan-Ulsan Metropolitan Railway and the Southeast Circular Metropolitan Railway. These projects are expected to create a cohesive urban network, promoting seamless travel and economic integration across the three regions.
The Busan-Yangsan-Ulsan line will connect Busan’s Nopo station to Ulsan’s KTX station via Yangsan, covering a total distance of 48.8 kilometers. This railway will significantly reduce travel times, enabling a commute from Busan to Ulsan in under an hour. The proposed route will also link currently disjointed urban rail lines, enhancing the overall efficiency and accessibility of public transportation in the region.
Meanwhile, the Southeast Circular Metropolitan Railway will span 51.4 kilometers, connecting Ulsan, Yangsan, and Gimhae. This line is integral to the vision of creating a “one-hour living sphere,” facilitating rapid transit within the southeastern region of South Korea.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to counteract population decline and stimulate regional development. Despite being the second-largest metropolitan area in South Korea, the Busan-Ulsan-Gyeongnam (Bu-Ul-Gyeong) region has faced significant population losses and economic challenges in recent years. The enhanced rail connectivity is expected to serve as a catalyst for economic revitalization, improving access to employment, education, and other essential services.
Busan Mayor Park Hyung-joon emphasized the transformative potential of these projects, stating, “The new railways will not only unify the Bu-Ul-Gyeong region but also act as a crucial stepping stone toward the successful launch of the Gadeokdo New Airport in 2029. This integrated transport network is essential for achieving balanced regional development and sustainable growth.”
The joint proposal has been submitted to key government bodies, including the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport. The leaders of Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongnam are seeking swift approval and cooperation from the central government to expedite the necessary pre-construction assessments and commence the projects without delay.
