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Adopting Demand Responsive Transportation Service in Seoul

Author: 
Sangyoen HongㆍSehyun Park

Seoul's public transportation system has undergone continuous investments since the 2004 renewal, resulting in an initial increase in bus ridership until 2010. However, in recent years, there has been a continuous decrease in bus usage. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the decline, leading to a substantial increase in subsidies, nearly triple the amount, for city buses. These changes can be attributed to evolving citizen behaviour and a diversification of demands regarding transportation modes. One prominent issue is the congestion and discomfort experienced by citizens  during peak commuting hours, leading to concerns about safety. Inadequate late-night transportation options also pose inconveniences. To address these persistent challenges, experts are suggesting Demand Responsive Transportation (DRT) as a potential solution. In this study, three DRT proposals for Seoul are put forth: route substitution of local buses with DRT, customized DRT for congested commuting routes, and integrated DRT for late-night mobility. These proposals aim to improve the efficiency of bus services, alleviate congestion, and enhance accessibility during peak hours and late-night travel. These innovative approaches could help to effectively address the inconvenience faced by its residents and create a more responsive and user-friendly public transportation system.