Seoul's Historic Return of Street-Level Trams

Seoul is set to reintroduce street-level trams with the Wirye Line Tram, marking the first such service in 58 years. The tram will operate along a 5.4-kilometer route connecting Macheon Station on Line No. 5 to Bokjeong Station and Namwirye Station on Line No. 8. The city government announced that full-scale trial runs will commence in February 2024, following the completion of essential infrastructure, including the tram depot and tracks.

Reunion after 58 years: The tram returns to Seoul’s streetsSeoul’s first street-level tram in 58 years to hit the rails in February

• January 26, 2024: The city government announced the commencement of trial runs for the Wirye Line Tram.

Seoul’s first street-level tram in 58 years to hit the rails in February

• January 26-27, 2024: The first tram vehicle was moved to the Wirye depot during low traffic hours, with assistance from the Songpa Police Station for traffic management.

Seoul’s first street-level tram in 58 years to hit the rails in February

• February 2024: Final operational verification will begin on the actual tram line.

Seoul’s first street-level tram in 58 years to hit the rails in February

• April to December 2024: A comprehensive railway system test will evaluate the stability and connectivity of all facilities.

Seoul’s first street-level tram in 58 years to hit the rails in February

• August 2024: Mainline trial runs will cover 16 categories, including safety and coordination with ground-based facilities.

Seoul’s first street-level tram in 58 years to hit the rails in February

To ensure the safety of both pedestrians and drivers, the city has implemented several measures. Safety personnel will be stationed at 13 intersections and 35 crosswalks along the tram route. A dedicated monitoring team will be on standby during operations. The city has emphasized the importance of thorough testing and verification, with Lim Chun-geun, head of the Urban Infrastructure Headquarters, stating, “We will ensure thorough testing and verification so citizens can use the service safely and conveniently.”

Seoul’s first street-level tram in 58 years to hit the rails in February

The Wirye Line Tram is designed as an electric-powered vehicle, promoting eco-friendly transportation with low emissions and minimal noise. This aligns with global trends in urban transport, where cities like San Francisco, Tokyo, and Paris have successfully integrated trams into their public transit systems.

Reunion after 58 years: The tram returns to Seoul’s streets

While the return of trams has been largely welcomed, some critics express concerns regarding the potential disruption to existing traffic patterns and the adequacy of safety measures. The city government has acknowledged these concerns and is actively working to address them through comprehensive safety protocols.

Seoul’s first street-level tram in 58 years to hit the rails in February

As the trial runs begin in February, the city will closely monitor the tram's performance and safety. The successful implementation of the Wirye Line Tram could pave the way for further expansions of tram services in Seoul, enhancing the city's public transportation network and urban landscape.

Reunion after 58 years: The tram returns to Seoul’s streetsSeoul’s first street-level tram in 58 years to hit the rails in February

• “We will ensure thorough testing and verification so citizens can use the service safely and conveniently,” — Lim Chun-geun, Head of Urban Infrastructure Headquarters.

Seoul’s first street-level tram in 58 years to hit the rails in February