Available for Seniors Aged 65 and Over on Their Own Smartphones
Free Subway Rides Just Like the Physical Card
A 'mobile transportation card' for seniors eligible for free subway rides is being launched. When using the metropolitan subway, the automatic free ride benefit will be applied just like the existing physical senior transportation card. For buses, taxis, or convenience stores, users can pre-load funds and make payments as needed.
On December 30, Seoul City announced that it has begun a pilot service for the 'Mobile Senior Transportation Card' offering these benefits.
The Mobile Senior Transportation Card is available to Seoul residents aged 65 or older who can issue the card using their own smartphone. Like the existing prepaid transportation card, users can top up the card in advance as needed and use it for transfers or small payments without having to take out a physical card.
To apply, users need to install the 'Mobile Tmoney' app from Google Play Store or other app stores, sign up, verify their identity, and then request the issuance of the Mobile Senior Transportation Card. Eligibility is verified immediately upon application, and the card is issued free of charge. The service is only available on smartphones running Android operating system (OS) version 12 or higher. It is not supported on iPhones (iOS) or older Android devices running below version 12.
Since only one senior transportation card can be issued per person, the existing physical transportation card will be deactivated as soon as the mobile card is issued. Seniors should carefully consider their personal preferences and familiarity with smartphones before making a choice.
Yeo Jangkwon, Director of Transportation at Seoul City, stated, "In a rapidly changing digital environment, we are practicing 'digital inclusion' so that seniors are not left behind and can enjoy smart transportation services. At the same time, we will continue to promote transportation policies that guarantee mobility rights and improve convenience for seniors."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
