Seoul City to Immediately Isolate Overseas Arrivals by 'Gonghang Bus'... Special Transport Measures Activated

Amid the rapid spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), Chinese international students from Dankook University who arrived through Incheon International Airport on the afternoon of the 24th of last month are undergoing a temperature check before boarding the bus. / Yeongjongdo - Photo by Kim Hyunmin kimhyun81@

[Asia Economy Reporter Jo In-kyung] The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced that starting from the 30th, it will implement a 'special transportation measure' to block the use of public transportation by overseas arrivals in order to prevent the inflow of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), allowing them to use only airport buses equipped with complete quarantine measures.

The measure will be implemented based on cooperation with 25 autonomous districts and airport bus transportation companies, and overseas arrivals will be isolated from the general public from the moment they leave the airport and board the airport bus.

Seoul plans to divide the entire city into 8 zones and establish 8 temporary routes, operating each route at least 3 times a day, totaling 24 trips. The operation plan will be established daily by analyzing demand and flight schedules, and will be flexibly operated by increasing the number of buses if demand is high.

The special temporary airport bus routes depart from Incheon Airport, and drop-offs are limited to one location designated by each autonomous district, such as district office buildings or health centers. This is to minimize the movement of overseas arrivals, strengthen the management system, and restrict the use of public transportation. Convenience facilities will also be installed and operated for overseas arrivals to wait until they move to their residence after getting off.

After getting off, overseas arrivals must maintain isolation by using private cars or other means to reach their residence. If there is no domestic acquaintance, designated vehicles provided by each district office can be used.

Airport bus drivers wear protective suits and goggles while driving, and the transport vehicles undergo comprehensive disinfection at the level of aircraft sterilization immediately after dropping off passengers and returning to the airport.

The city will compensate transportation costs to airport bus companies participating in this special transportation for overseas arrivals and will also support the costs of drivers and vehicle disinfection.