High school student Jin-sung used to spend much of his allowance traveling between school, the library, and academies. Now, thanks to Jeju Island’s new free bus policy for teenagers, he says getting around feels easier and less stressful.
Jeju began offering free rides for teens in August, expanding a program that already covered seniors and children. More than a third of residents now travel without paying fares, a major step in public transport welfare.
With no subway, highway, or regular train service, Jeju depends heavily on buses. The island also has Korea’s highest car ownership rate and one of the highest traffic accident rates. To address this issue, the local government invested in a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, dubbed a “subway on the road,” where buses run in exclusive lanes and get priority at traffic lights.
The system features central platforms, double-door buses, waiting rooms with air conditioning, charging stations, and safety cameras. With its implementation, studies show bus speeds improved by more than 40% on the busiest routes.
Officials say the program gives teens freedom, keeps seniors active, and promotes greener, safer travel ? a model experts say could inspire national public transport reform.
J.K. Park Staff Reporter junior/1761184411/1613367801
1. What transportation problems does Jeju face that make buses so important?
2. How does the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system help buses move faster on the road?
3. What safety and comfort features are included in Jeju’s new bus system?
4. What larger benefits does the government hope to achieve with this policy?
1. How would free bus rides change your daily life?
2. Would you use public transportation more if it were free?
3. Do you think your city should have a system like Jeju(제주)’s? Why or why not?
4. How could free buses help the environment or your community?
High school student Jin-sung used to spend much of his allowance traveling between school, the library, and academies. Now, thanks to Jeju Island’s new free bus policy for teenagers, he says getting around feels easier and less stressful.
