The New York Times (NYT) in the United States reported on the lives of Korean elderly people who spend time on the subway thanks to free ride benefits. The article titled "Older Subway Riders Find Joy in Their Journeys" was published on the 23rd (local time).
The media reported that retired Koreans aged 65 and over spend their days riding the subway to the last station or wandering around without a specific destination. Their previous occupations ranged from math professors to interior designers, construction site supervisors, and models.
Mr. Jeon (85), who retired after working as a math professor, reads books or naps on the subway. Interior designer Mr. Lee (85) enjoys traveling from Suyu Station on Line 4, transferring once, to Soyosan Station, the terminus of Line 1. This is because if he stays at home, he ends up just lying down.
The subway lines in the metropolitan area with many and long routes were especially popular. This was because the air conditioning was cool even in the hot summer, and it was good to observe various people.
The NYT reported, "With the increase in the elderly population, free subway rides for seniors in Seoul account for 15% of the annual ridership." It also introduced their nickname, 'Jigonggeosa.' This term combines 'Jigong' (free subway rides) and 'Geosa (居士),' meaning a person who does nothing.
They also had their own rules to avoid causing inconvenience. A representative example is avoiding rush hours and not standing in front of young people to prevent them from feeling pressured to give up their seats.
The media also reported that due to years of subway deficits, politicians have consistently discussed abolishing free rides for seniors or raising the eligibility age. Nevertheless, it pointed out that in Korea, where the elderly poverty rate is twice that of Japan or the United States, 'free subway travel' holds significant meaning for the elderly.
Saving the 1,500 won fare per ride is meaningful for the elderly, and if it were not free, most seniors would ride the subway much less, the article analyzed.
Kim Ho-il, president of the Korea Senior Citizens Association, argued at a Seoul city-related forum last February, "Why take away this happiness?" He claimed that if seniors continue to be active by using free subway rides, the country could significantly reduce medical expenses.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
