Seoul Metro and KORAIL Conduct Joint Rescue Coupling Drill

Joint Rescue Coupling Drill Held at Changdong Train Depot on the 9th
Annual Joint Training Conducted on Lines 1, 3, and 4
Preparedness for Train Breakdowns and Service Disruptions

Seoul Metro (President Baek Ho) announced on May 9 that it conducted a joint rescue coupling drill with Korea Railroad Corporation (KORAIL) at the Changdong Train Depot to strengthen response capabilities in the event of train emergencies.

In accordance with the agreement on through-operation, both companies, which jointly operate Lines 1, 3, and 4, regularly conduct rescue coupling drills to reinforce their cooperative system.

Rescue coupling is a procedure used when a train breaks down and cannot operate, allowing the disabled train to be safely moved to the nearest siding or train depot by coupling it with another train. The primary objectives are to ensure passenger safety and to quickly reopen the main line.

Approximately 100 employees from both companies participated in this drill, which focused on rescue coupling between trains from different manufacturers in sections with steep gradients and sharp curves. The scenario assumed that a Seoul Metro train operating between Ssangmun Station and Changdong Station became disabled and unable to continue service.

The drill was carried out in the following sequence: ▲ engineer situation report ▲ passenger announcement ▲ control center driving arrangement and rescue coupling instructions ▲ passenger evacuation and preparation for combined operation ▲ combined operation of the rescue train and the disabled train, followed by return to Changdong Train Depot.

To reflect the recent introduction of many new trains, the latest models were deployed for the drill. The specifications and characteristics of rescue coupling were shared with passenger safety as the top priority, ensuring that actions could be taken smoothly according to a common manual in the event of an emergency.

Thanks to the ongoing joint rescue coupling drills by both companies, there was a case on September 19 last year where a Seoul Metro train approaching Changdong Station became disabled and could not move. However, a rapid rescue coupling with a following KORAIL train enabled a safe and swift response.

Ahn Changgyu, Head of the Crew Headquarters at Seoul Metro, stated, "Through this joint drill, we expect the cooperation system between the two companies to become even closer and the safety of citizens to be further strengthened." He added, "Seoul Metro will continue to enhance the capabilities of our crew members through ongoing training so that we can respond safely and promptly to any unusual situations."