Repeated Bus Accidents in Front of Sangmyung University... Residents and Students Oppose Removing Hill Bus

Consecutive Bus Slipping Accidents... Risks Pointed Out
Sangmyung University Students and Staff "99% Oppose Abolition"
Seoul City "Considering Bus Alternatives"

The steep slope in front of Sangmyung University in Jongno-gu, Seoul, notorious as the "Hill of Death" and "Hell's Uphill," has been the site of repeated bus slip accidents. Although the Seoul Metropolitan Government is considering discontinuing bus routes to prevent these incidents, concerns remain high among local residents and students due to insufficient alternative measures.

Channel A recently reported that Seoul is seriously considering suspending bus operations on certain sections of the uphill road near Sangmyung University's main and back gates. The slope reaches a maximum gradient of 16 degrees. Since September last year, there have been three bus slip accidents. Moreover, the road is narrow, with a convergence point for vehicles and an elementary school nearby, raising safety concerns.

On the morning of the 5th, a village bus climbing the nearby hill slipped and crashed into the stairs of a nearby house. Two passengers sustained serious injuries, while 35 other passengers and the bus driver suffered minor injuries.

On the 5th, a bus slipped on a hillside road near Sangmyung University in Jongno-gu, Seoul. [Image source=Provided by Jongno Fire Station]

Currently, three bus routes ascend the hill to Sangmyung University: city bus 7016 and village buses Seodaemun08 and Jongno13. Seoul is reportedly considering turning back two of these routes before they reach the hill and leaving only the route that goes downhill. The rationale is that if buses do not climb the hill, accidents will not occur.

However, local residents and students have expressed strong opposition. Sangmyung University itself has pushed back. A survey conducted among about 5,300 people?including students, faculty, and parents of affiliated middle and high school students?showed that 99% oppose the route adjustments. There are also concerns that removing the buses will lead to a surge in private vehicles, exacerbating safety issues.

Seoul stated, "We have no choice but to prioritize safety over convenience," indicating that route adjustments are highly likely at this point.

Seoul initially planned to finalize the adjustment plan for bus route 7016 on the 5th, but due to strong opposition from students and residents, it decided to gather additional opinions next week. The city is also reportedly considering alternatives to replace the buses.