Seoul preps to launch ferry service for tourists, commuters

The city of Seoul plans to launch a ferry service in 2024 as authorities in the South Korean capital vie to draw more foreign tourists and ease commuters' traffic woes.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government plans to operate the service along the Han River, which runs through the nation's largest city. As envisioned, it will run between Gimpo, home to the region's smaller international airport, and Jamsil, where retail giant Lotte Group operates an amusement park, according to authorities on Thursday.

The government is accepting applications until July 14 from companies or individuals that wish to operate the ferry service, with the aim of selecting preferred applicants on July 21.

To be considered, a service operator must introduce at least six boats, each of which can carry 150 passengers and 20 bicycles, during the first year of the contract and more than 10 vessels with such a capacity by the second year. The municipal authority will grant awardees a license for three years, which can be extended to 20 years.

“Some companies have already inquired about the service with interest,” said a Seoul government official. “It will succeed if we incorporate the private sector’s creative operational method into the service.”

LONDON RIVER BUS

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon has been considering the service since riding London's River Bus on the Thames in March. Launched in 1999, London's services operate four routes and in 2018 they collectively served some 10 million passengers.

Seoul wants to offer a similar service to tourists while also easing commuters' demand for public transit with a plan to link the water bus with eco-friendly transport like bicycles.

Some critics have expressed concerns, however, that the Han River's piers are far from subway stations and major city centers.

They also questioned whether locals are willing to pay for the service, which would be more expensive than bus fares, which start at 1,200 won ($0.90) for a one-way trip in Seoul. An adult ticket for London's River Bus costs at least 5.2 British pounds ($6.60), according to its operator. 

The Seoul government is now renovating access paths to the piers to help passengers reach them by bicycle and other means, while mulling the launch of shuttle buses between subway stations and the wharves.

Authorities also plan to hold public forums before deciding on fares for the water bus.

Write to Sang-Eun Lee at selee@hankyung.com
 
Jongwoo Cheon edited this article.