▲ Integrated KTX and SRT train services will begin operating on September 1. Pictured here is Seoul Station on August 31. (Photo: Yonhap News)
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced today (August 31) that it has completed the institutional integration of the Korea Railroad Corporation (Korail) and SR, and will begin combined operations of KTX and SRT starting from the 1st of next month.
Following the passage of the Fair Trade Commission's business combination review earlier this month, the ministry explained that all necessary legal and administrative procedures—such as business transfer approval, changes to the railway business plan, and updates to the railway safety management system—have been completed.
Korail plans to temporarily establish an Integrated Business Management Division within its existing organization to take over SR's operations, granting it autonomous authority necessary for operating high-speed railways originating from Suseo.
The Integrated Business Management Division will operate for up to three years, with its operational period to be determined after evaluating the degree of integration and organizational stability one year later.
In terms of workforce, the plan is to comprehensively succeed the employment of SR staff under the condition that their existing working conditions are maintained, while adjusting details such as employment, duties, compensation, and welfare through labor-management consultations.
In addition, starting in 2027, the government and Korail plan to sequentially introduce 31 new high-speed trainsets (8 cars per trainset, 500 seats), which offer about 90 more seats per trainset compared to the existing KTX-Sancheon.
In connection with the expansion of railway infrastructure such as the quadruplication of the Pyeongtaek-Osong section, the frequency of high-speed train operations and seat supply will be continuously expanded.
The plan is to also secure a balance between public convenience and Korail's financial soundness by monitoring transportation revenue from increased seat supply and cost reductions resulting from the integration.
Every effort will be made to ensure train safety.
Joint inspections will be conducted regarding engineer training, coupling and uncoupling operations of multiple train units, responses to emergency situations, and station congestion management.
An emergency response team will also be operated on a regular basis until the end of the year, and a comprehensive emergency response drill for the Suseo High-Speed Line will be conducted next month.
Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Kim Yoon-deok stated, "From the very beginning of this integration, we will put safety first and meticulously inspect the field," adding, "We will ensure that the public can use high-speed railways more conveniently and enjoy better railway services."
(Photo: Yonhap News)
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