Seoul Introduces Sustainable Han River Bus Waterway Service for Eco-friendly Urban Mobility

Seoul Launches Innovative Waterway Transit System This Week

Published: September 15, 2025

Seoul is introducing an eco-friendly waterway transportation system, nicknamed “He is tearing the bus,” aiming to reduce congestion and provide a unique commuting experience.

Seoul, South Korea, is poised to revolutionize its urban transport network with the imminent launch of a pioneering waterway system. The new service, informally dubbed “He is tearing the bus”, is scheduled to commence operations this week, offering residents and tourists a novel and environmentally conscious way to navigate the city.

This initiative represents a notable step towards Seoul’s broader commitment to enduring urban advancement. City officials anticipate the waterway transport will alleviate pressure on the existing road and subway infrastructure which currently handles over 26 million passengers daily. According to recent data from the Seoul Metropolitan Government, traffic congestion costs the city an estimated ₩6.8 trillion annually.

A Greener Commute: Details of the Waterway System

The waterway transportation system utilizes specially designed vessels to operate along Seoul’s Han River and other key waterways. These vessels are equipped with eco-friendly technologies to minimize their environmental impact. The system is designed to integrate seamlessly with the city’s existing public transport network,offering convenient connections to subway stations and bus terminals.

The project is part of a wider trend in urban innovation focusing on utilizing underutilized waterways for public transport. Cities like Venice, Amsterdam, and Bangkok have long capitalized on their waterways, and Seoul is now joining this global movement. A 2023 report by the World Bank highlighted the potential of urban waterways to enhance accessibility and reduce carbon emissions.

Key Features of the New System

Feature	Details
Vessel Type	Eco-friendly, purpose-built ferries
Route Coverage	Han River and key city waterways
integration	Seamless connections to subway and bus lines
Environmental Impact	Reduced congestion and lower carbon emissions

Did you Know? Seoul boasts an extensive network of over 600 bridges, making it ideally suited for waterway transportation.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government anticipates high demand for the new service, particularly during peak commuting hours and tourist seasons. The city is actively promoting the waterway transport as a unique and appealing option to traditional modes of transport.

Pro Tip: Download the Seoul transportation app for real-time schedules and route planning for the new waterway service.

The rollout of “He is tearing the bus” represents a bold vision for the future of urban mobility in Seoul.By embracing innovative solutions and prioritizing sustainability, the city aims to create a more livable and environmentally responsible urban environment for its citizens.

Will this new waterway system significantly impact Seoul’s traffic congestion? And how will this environmentally friendly initiative influence other cities to explore similar solutions?

the Growing trend of Urban Waterway Transport

The resurgence of urban waterway transport is driven by several factors, including growing concerns about traffic congestion, air pollution, and the need for more sustainable transportation options. Investing in waterway infrastructure can also enhance a city’s attractiveness to tourists and contribute to economic development.

Globally, cities are increasingly recognizing the potential of their waterways. From the canals of Venice to the river buses of Bangkok, these transportation systems offer a unique and frequently enough efficient way to navigate urban landscapes. The success of these ventures serves as a blueprint for cities, like Seoul, looking to integrate waterways into their overall transport strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Seoul’s waterway Transport

• What is the “He is tearing the bus” waterway system? It’s a new, eco-friendly public transport system utilizing Seoul’s waterways.
• Will the waterway system help with Seoul’s traffic? Yes, it is indeed designed to alleviate congestion on roads and subways.
• Is this system environmentally friendly? The vessels are equipped with eco-friendly technologies to minimize their impact.
• How does the waterway system connect to other transport? It integrates seamlessly with subway stations and bus terminals.
• Where can I find more details about routes and schedules? Check the seoul transportation app for real-time updates.
• What are the benefits of urban waterway transport? Reduced congestion, lower emissions, and a unique commuting experience.

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How does Seoul’s Han River Bus project contribute to the city’s enduring advancement goals?

Seoul Introduces Sustainable Han River Bus Waterway Service for Eco-kind Urban Mobility

A New Era of Green Commuting in South Korea

Seoul has long been a pioneer in urban innovation, and it’s latest initiative – a fully sustainable Han River bus service – solidifies that reputation. Launched in September 2025, this waterway transport system offers a compelling alternative to congested roadways, promoting eco-friendly transportation, reducing carbon emissions, and enhancing the city’s overall quality of life. This project directly addresses growing concerns about urban mobility and sustainable development within the bustling metropolis.

Understanding the Han River Bus System

The Han River bus isn’t simply a ferry service; it’s a meticulously planned network designed for efficient and agreeable commuting. Here’s a breakdown of key features:

* Electric & Hybrid Fleet: The entire fleet comprises electric and hybrid vessels,minimizing noise pollution and eliminating direct emissions. This commitment to zero-emission transport is central to the project’s sustainability goals.

* Strategic Routes & Stops: Multiple routes connect key districts along the Han River, including Yeouido, Nodeul Island, and Ttukseom Hangang Park.Strategically placed docks ensure easy access for commuters and tourists alike.

* Integrated Ticketing System: Passengers can utilize the existing T-money card system (Seoul’s integrated transportation card) for seamless travel, simplifying the commuting experience.

* Real-Time Details: A dedicated mobile app and digital displays at each dock provide real-time schedules, route updates, and occupancy information. This enhances passenger experience and promotes efficient travel planning.

Benefits of the Han River Bus: Beyond Emission Reduction

The advantages of this new service extend far beyond environmental benefits.

* Reduced Traffic Congestion: By diverting commuters from roads, the Han River bus alleviates traffic bottlenecks, particularly during peak hours.This contributes to improved traffic flow and reduced commute times.

* enhanced Accessibility: The waterway provides access to areas less well-served by the subway or bus networks, improving urban accessibility for residents.

* Tourism Boost: The scenic routes offer a unique outlook of Seoul, attracting tourists and boosting local businesses along the riverbanks. This supports sustainable tourism initiatives.

* Improved Air Quality: Reduced reliance on gasoline-powered vehicles directly translates to cleaner air, benefiting public health. Seoul’s commitment to air quality enhancement is a key driver of this project.

* Economic Growth: the project created jobs in shipbuilding, operation, and maintenance, contributing to local economic growth.

route Details & Schedules (September 2025)

Currently, three primary routes are operational:

1. Yeouido – Nodeul Island – Ttukseom: This popular route connects the business district of Yeouido with the recreational areas of Nodeul Island and Ttukseom Hangang Park. Frequency: Every 30 minutes.
2. Yeouido – Jamwon: Serving the southern part of the river, this route provides access to Jamwon Hangang Park and surrounding residential areas. Frequency: Every 45 minutes.
3. ttukseom – Mangwon: Connecting the eastern and western parts of the city, this route offers a longer commute option with scenic views. Frequency: Every 60 minutes.

Detailed schedules and route maps are available on the official Han River Bus website ([hypothetical website address: hanriverbus.seoul.go.kr]).

Seoul’s Vision for Future Waterway Transport

The Han River bus is just the first phase of a larger vision for waterway transport in Seoul. Future plans include:

* Expanding the Route Network: Adding new routes to connect more districts and increase accessibility.

* Developing Advanced Vessel Technology: Investing in research and development of even more efficient and sustainable vessel technologies, including hydrogen-powered ferries.

* Integrating with Other Transport Modes: Creating seamless connections with the subway, bus, and bicycle networks to provide a truly integrated multimodal transport system.

* Smart dock Infrastructure: Implementing smart dock technology with features like automated passenger counting, real-time environmental monitoring, and integrated security systems.

Case Study: Lessons from European Waterway Cities

Seoul’s initiative draws inspiration from successful waterway transport systems in European cities like amsterdam and Venice. These cities demonstrate the potential of canals and rivers to alleviate traffic congestion and promote sustainable urban mobility. Amsterdam, for example, has a well-established network of canals used for both passenger and freight transport, substantially reducing reliance on road transport. Seoul has actively studied these models to optimize its own system, adapting best practices to the unique context of the Han River and the city’s infrastructure. This benchmarking process has been crucial to the project’s success.

Practical Tips for Using the han River Bus

* Download the Mobile App: the official app provides real-time information, route maps, and ticketing options.

* Check the Weather: While the vessels are designed for various weather conditions, it’s advisable to check