Seoul City and Korea Railroad Research Institute Join Forces to Ensure Quality of Wirye Line

Leading the Introduction of Eco-Friendly Public Transportation Methods

Seoul City announced on the 8th that it signed a 'Joint Business Agreement for the Successful Opening of Korea's First Catenary-Free Tram (Wirye Line) between Seoul City and the Korea Railroad Research Institute' at the main building's video conference room. The signing ceremony was attended by Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon and Korea Railroad Research Institute President Han Seok-yoon.

According to the agreement, both organizations will mutually cooperate to ensure the successful opening of the Wirye Line, Korea's first catenary-free tram route, by ▲ discussing institutional and technical cooperation measures to secure the quality of the Wirye Line and facilitate smooth construction ▲ establishing and implementing a comprehensive railway test operation plan ▲ reforming vehicle technology and type approval systems.

Currently, the Wirye Line tram has completed detailed design in June of last year, received final project plan approval from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport in December of the same year, and has entered the construction phase.

Unlike experiences with subways such as heavy rail and light rail, the catenary-free tram project is the first of its kind in Korea. Therefore, Seoul City plans to resolve technical and institutional issues that may arise during the construction of the Wirye Line through mutual cooperation with the Korea Railroad Research Institute and to secure the quality of the Wirye Line tram construction project.

By constructing the tram in Wirye New Town, Seoul City aims to alleviate transportation inconveniences for local residents who have faced difficulties using public transportation. Additionally, the Transit Mall in Wirye New Town is expected to significantly contribute to revitalizing the local economy as a tourist attraction combined with various cultural and artistic events in the future.