The Second Wave of Public Transportation Innovation Following City Bus Transfers: Introduction of K-Pass.

In an innovative move to alleviate the financial burden of public transportation expenses for citizens, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport will officially implement the 'K-Pass' program from May, offering a 20-53% reduction in public transportation costs.

 

Introduction of K-Pass

K-Pass is a transportation card that allows users to receive a certain percentage of their expenditure on city buses, subways, and other public transportation back the following month if they use public transportation 15 times or more regularly. Unlike conventional discounted transportation cards, K-Pass provides a fixed percentage refund on the expenditure, irrespective of the distance traveled, eliminating the need for mileage records based on walking, cycling, and other means of transportation.

 

With this initiative, citizens no longer need to worry about the financial burden of public transportation costs.

 

Refund Percentage and Benefits

Users utilizing public transportation through K-Pass can receive refunds of ▲20% for the general public ▲30% for youths aged 19-34 ▲53% for low-income individuals. If an individual spends an average of 70,000 won monthly on public transportation, the general public can save 14,000 won, youth can save 21,000 won, and low-income individuals can save 37,000 won, significantly easing household burdens.

 

Usage and Transition

Existing users of discounted transportation cards can transition to K-Pass and enjoy its benefits through their existing transportation cards. New users can sign up for K-Pass starting from May through the official K-Pass website, mobile application, or card company websites, selecting the desired transportation card product to use K-Pass.

 

Early Implementation and Minimum Usage Frequency Condition Change

Originally scheduled to begin in July, K-Pass will be implemented early from May to alleviate the financial burden of the public on transportation costs. The minimum usage frequency condition has also been reduced from 21 times to 15 times per month, allowing more users to benefit from the program.

 

Expansion of Coverage and Inclusion of Large Transportation Vehicles such as GTX-A

Currently involving 176 major local governments, the K-Pass program will expand its service area nationwide with 13 additional regions, including Donghae, Samcheok, Taebaek, Hoengseong, Yeongwol, Eumseong, Jincheon, Boeun, Yeongdong, Jeungpyeong, Goesan, Danyang, and Jangseong joining from May. Furthermore, K-Pass benefits will also apply to long-distance commuting costs using GTX-A, express buses, and other large transportation vehicles, not just regular city buses or subways.

 

Business Preparation for Smooth Implementation

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, in collaboration with local governments and card companies, has thoroughly prepared for the smooth implementation of K-Pass. The official launch is scheduled for May, and all procedures, including system and app development, will be executed seamlessly.

 

With this initiative, citizens no longer need to worry about the financial burden of public transportation costs. The convenient and economical transportation experience provided by 'K-Pass' is expected to bring new convenience to their lives. We hope that the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's efforts will greatly benefit the citizens.