Pilot "connected trains" linking KTX and SRT services will begin operation on Tuesday, expanding seating capacity by up to twofold and lowering fares by approximately 10 percent.
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) said Monday that it will operate the pilot connected trains on sections of the Honam and Gyeongbu lines starting Tuesday, in partnership with Korea Railroad Corp. (Korail) and SR. The connected operation links trains from different operators into a single train. It marks the second phase of expanding integrated high-speed rail operations into actual service, following the cross-operation launched in February.
Seating capacity will significantly expand. Some sections will see seats increase by up to twofold compared with existing single train sets, which is expected to ease congestion during peak periods such as weekends. Additional SRT rolling stock will also be deployed to boost capacity.
Fares will also be reduced. Connected trains will apply KTX fares aligned with the lower SRT fare level. KTX fares departing from or arriving at Suseo Station will be discounted by approximately 10 percent. However, mileage points will not accrue on discounted train tickets.
Tickets can be booked through the mobile apps and websites of Korail and SR, as well as at station counters and automated ticket machines. KTX tickets are sold through the Korail app and website, while SRT tickets are available through the SR app and website. On-site counters and automated machines serve both services without distinction. The ministry plans to integrate the booking systems in the future.
To ensure safety, train coupling tests, system compatibility checks, and trial runs have been conducted in phases since December last year. A total of five trial runs were completed between April 30 and May 14, and in the initial operation stage, engineers will board each train to maintain an around-the-clock emergency response system.
"Based on the pilot operation results, we will closely review safety and operational efficiency and complete the integration of high-speed rail by September," MOLIT Minister Kim Yoon-duck said.
