Busan will introduce a system allowing virtually unlimited public transit use for 45,000 won ($31) per month by linking the central government's transit rebate program with its own policy. The city aims to reduce commuter costs while shifting demand from private vehicles to public transportation.
The Busan Metropolitan Government announced Wednesday it will revamp its transit system starting April by connecting the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's "Card for All" program with Busan's "Dongbaek Pass" rebate system.
The government's "Card for All" program, launched in January, refunds the full amount exceeding 55,000 won in monthly transit spending for standard users. The current Dongbaek Pass refunds up to 45,000 won for spending above the 45,000 won monthly threshold.
Under the integrated system, users enrolled in both Dongbaek Pass and K-Pass will receive unlimited rebates for transit spending exceeding 45,000 won monthly in Busan. This effectively caps monthly transit costs at 45,000 won.
Since its nationwide-first launch in August 2023, Dongbaek Pass has expanded to include youth passes in July 2024 and mobile passes planned for July 2025. Enrollment reached 813,298 as of late January. A survey of 1,000 users conducted by the Busan Development Institute in the first half of last year showed 93% satisfaction, with confirmed shifts from private vehicles to public transit.
The city has completed consultations with the central government and is currently developing the integration system. Once complete, existing Dongbaek Pass holders can continue using their current cards without obtaining new ones. Users enrolled in both programs will receive automatic rebates based on their spending.
The city expects the integration to ease its fiscal burden, as the K-Pass program receives 50% central government funding, compared to the fully city-funded Dongbaek Pass.
City officials including Mayor Park Heong-joon launched a promotional campaign Wednesday morning at Seomyeon intersection and nearby subway stations. About 100 city employees distributed information to residents and commuted to City Hall via subway as part of the event.
"By linking Dongbaek Pass with K-Pass, we will create a virtuous cycle that expands benefits for citizens while reducing the city's fiscal burden," Mayor Park said.