A bus company in Busan has drawn attention after building a ramp connecting to a walking path and donating it to the local community for residents' safety. The project, which began after an elderly resident nearly fell on steep stone steps, stands out as an example that goes beyond a simple monetary donation to address inconveniences in everyday life.
According to the local community Wednesday, Haedong Transport, a bus operator in Busan, held a "Park Path Connecting Ramp Completion and Donation Ceremony" at the La Cent Switzen complex in Jung-dong, Haeundae-gu, on the same day, donating the pedestrian facility to residents.
The newly installed "Suwol Bridge" is a passage connecting the apartment complex with the Green Railway, a representative walking path in Haeundae. Previously, residents had to use stone steps with a steep height difference, making movement difficult for the elderly, children and people with disabilities. In fact, residents had continuously filed complaints about the high risk of falls.
The project's origins date back to June last year. A Haedong Transport official witnessed an elderly resident nearly fall on the steps while taking a walk, and upon learning of this, CEO Son Ho-jin decided to push for the installation of a ramp himself.
The donation process was not resolved through goodwill alone. Because the site was state-owned property related to the railway, the company had to go through complex permit procedures with Busan City, Haeundae-gu and railway authorities. The approval alone took eight months.
After the permit was granted, Haedong Transport's facilities team and volunteers carried out the construction themselves. The cost of the construction, which took about two months, was fully borne by the company, including materials. Although it is a facility for residents' safety, the project carries added meaning in that it is difficult to expect any separate profit or publicity benefit.
At the completion ceremony that day, the La Cent Switzen management body delivered a plaque of appreciation to express its gratitude. The management body said, "We are deeply grateful for the warm sharing shown for the walking safety and mobility convenience of the residents."
Founded in 1980, Haedong Transport is a local company that has handled bus transportation in the Busan area. While it regularly operates its own volunteer organization and continues to support vulnerable groups, this case is drawing even greater attention as a community-oriented social contribution that local residents can feel in their daily lives.
"It may be a small inconvenience to some, but I thought it was a matter directly tied to safety for the elderly," Son said. "As a local company, we will continue to seek out work that provides practical help to residents' lives."
