Record-Breaking Seoul City Bus Strike: Impacts and Responses

The indefinite strike by the Seoul city bus union commenced at 4 a.m. on January 13, 2026, following unsuccessful negotiations regarding wage increases and collective labor contracts. This strike has already surpassed 30 hours, marking it as the longest in Seoul's history, with over 7,000 buses across 390 routes remaining idle. As of January 14, only 562 buses were operational, resulting in an operation rate of 8% of the total authorized fleet.

With Local Elections and Lunar New Year Ahead, 'Seoul City Buses Come to a Halt,' Public Sentiment Grows SensitiveAttention travelers to South Korea! Seoul bus union begins indefinite strike starting today

The central conflict of the strike revolves around wage negotiations. The management proposed a restructuring of the wage system aimed at achieving an average increase of 10.3%. In contrast, the union is demanding a 3% wage increase without altering the existing wage structure and an extension of the retirement age to 65. The Seoul Regional Labor Relations Commission is mediating discussions, with a potential agreement needed by midnight on January 14 to resume normal operations by January 15.

With Local Elections and Lunar New Year Ahead, 'Seoul City Buses Come to a Halt,' Public Sentiment Grows Sensitive

In response to the strike, the Seoul city government has activated an emergency transportation plan to mitigate the impact on commuters. Measures include increasing subway operations by 172 trips, extending service hours until 2 a.m., and deploying additional trains during peak hours. Furthermore, 677 free shuttle buses have been introduced across the 25 districts of Seoul to connect major hubs and subway stations, with some routes operating until 10 p.m.

Attention travelers to South Korea! Seoul bus union begins indefinite strike starting todayWith Local Elections and Lunar New Year Ahead, 'Seoul City Buses Come to a Halt,' Public Sentiment Grows Sensitive

Seoul Mayor Oh Sehoon emphasized the need for the city to minimize disruptions caused by the strike. He visited the 120 Dasan Call Center to encourage staff and manage citizen inquiries, acknowledging the increased volume of complaints due to traffic congestion. The city government has urged the bus union to consider the public's inconvenience and return to work promptly.

With Local Elections and Lunar New Year Ahead, 'Seoul City Buses Come to a Halt,' Public Sentiment Grows Sensitive

Public sentiment is reportedly deteriorating as the strike continues, particularly given the severe cold weather conditions. Citizens have expressed frustration over the lack of adequate transportation options, with some noting that neither the city government nor the bus companies seem to prioritize their needs.

With Local Elections and Lunar New Year Ahead, 'Seoul City Buses Come to a Halt,' Public Sentiment Grows Sensitive

While the bus union and management have engaged in negotiations, details regarding the specific outcomes of these discussions remain unclear. The potential for an agreement by the end of January 14 is uncertain, and the implications of a prolonged strike could further exacerbate public discontent.

Attention travelers to South Korea! Seoul bus union begins indefinite strike starting today

The outcome of the mediation meeting on January 14 will be pivotal in determining whether the strike will continue or if normal bus operations will resume. The city government is prepared to mobilize all available resources to address the ongoing transportation challenges faced by citizens during this unprecedented strike.

With Local Elections and Lunar New Year Ahead, 'Seoul City Buses Come to a Halt,' Public Sentiment Grows Sensitive