Public Transportation Management in South Korea

Abstract

This article analyzes the public transportation management system of South Korea, one of the most successful countries in developing efficient and modern mass transit systems in Asia. The study aims to examine management mechanisms and synthesize lessons for application in other national contexts. In an era where smart cities have become a crucial urban development goal, efficient public transportation systems serve as essential infrastructure for sustainable economic, social, and environmental development. The study employs four theoretical frameworks: (1) Public Service Theory, emphasizing service provision for public benefit; (2) New Public Management (NPM), focusing on efficiency and accountability; (3) Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) Theory, integrating technology; and (4) Transit-Oriented Development, linking transportation with urban planning.

          The analysis reveals that South Korea's public transportation system comprises diverse networks including subway systems covering Seoul and metropolitan areas, high-speed rail (KTX and SRT) connecting major cities, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems, public bicycles, and air and water transportation. All these are supported by digital technologies such as the T-money smart card system, Kakao Map application, and ITS for real-time traffic management. The success of South Korea's public transportation system rests on Four Pillars: (1) Integrated Planning, linking transportation with urban planning and land-use policies; (2) Technology and Innovation, utilizing digital systems and data for management; (3) Environmental Sustainability, through electric vehicles and clean energy; and (4) Social Inclusiveness, designing systems accessible to all groups, including persons with disabilities and the elderly.

          Key management strategies include: (1) Safety, with international standards and preventive maintenance; (2) Service Quality, emphasizing convenience and punctuality; (3) Financial Structure, with efficient cost management and public-private partnerships; and (4) Transparency and Anti-corruption, through the OPEN (Online Procedures Enhancement for Civil Application) system for information disclosure and process transparency. A significant finding is that South Korea's success stems from the integration of national policies, local participation, and systematic technology implementation, particularly the linkage between transportation systems and Transit-Oriented Development creating commercial and residential spaces around transit stations.

          The article proposes policy recommendations at three levels: (1) Structural Level - developing laws and policies supporting transportation system integration, creating inter-agency coordination mechanisms, and allocating sufficient budgets; (2) Organizational Level - developing personnel capacity, establishing efficient management systems, and promoting public-private cooperation; and (3) Local Level - encouraging public participation, developing transportation systems responsive to local needs, and building inter-city cooperation networks. The new knowledge gained from this study is that successful public transportation system development requires a combination of long-term planning, appropriate technology implementation, emphasis on sustainability, and ensuring equal access to services - crucial lessons for countries developing public transportation systems in the 21st century.