‘All Passengers Free’ Cheongsong-gun's Nationwide First Free Bus

Universal Welfare, Carbon Neutrality, and Economic Revitalization Effects Are Significant

[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Gwiyeol] Cheongsong-gun, Gyeongbuk Province, which introduced the nation’s first ‘free bus for all passengers,’ is seeing a triple effect of universal welfare, carbon neutrality, and economic revitalization.

Starting from New Year's Day 2023, the county implemented a policy of completely free bus rides within the county for all visitors to Cheongsong, including residents and tourists, to overcome the risk of local extinction and improve transportation welfare.

As a result, just over a month after launching the ‘free rural bus service,’ it has been confirmed that the policy is receiving great support from residents by enhancing universal welfare, practicing carbon neutrality, and revitalizing the local economy.

First, it is estimated that bus ridership in Cheongsong has increased by about 20% since the introduction of the ‘free rural bus service.’ This is analyzed as local residents, who had previously avoided taking the bus due to cost concerns and the hassle of paying fares, now going out more freely without burden.

An elderly bus user said, “Before, I used to hold off on going to the hospital unless I had other errands to run, but now if I feel a bit sick, I go to the hospital right away, so I feel less pain and my son and daughter-in-law who live far away worry less.”

A resident who used the bus on market day said, “Before, I used to rush and sometimes stagger while putting my shopping basket in the car and taking out change, but now the driver even helps carry the bags,” expressing satisfaction.

These evaluations align well with Cheongsong-gun’s intention to guarantee residents’ right to mobility and improve safety and quality of life through the introduction of the free bus service.

Although most passengers are currently local residents, it is expected that as tourists begin visiting in spring, a new travel trend of sightseeing by bus in the slow city of Cheongsong will take hold, enhancing the image of ‘Oxygen Cafe Cheongsong-gun’ practicing carbon neutrality, attracting more tourists, and leading to local economic revitalization.

Governor Yoon Kyung-hee said, “To meet the residents’ support and tourists’ expectations, we will regularly inspect buses and terminals to create a comfortable bus environment and thoroughly train drivers in service, doing our best in operation.”