Mar 4 • 08:50 UTC 🇰🇷 Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

“If it exceeds 45,000 won a month, it will be refunded” Busan to implement integrated public transport discount system from April

Beginning April 1, Busan citizens can subscribe to the Dongbaek Pass and the government's All Card for unlimited refunds on public transport expenses exceeding 45,000 won per month.

Starting April 1, 2024, residents of Busan will be able to benefit from an innovative integrated public transport discount system known as the Dongbaek Pass, allowing unlimited refunds on monthly transport expenses exceeding 45,000 won when they subscribe to both the Dongbaek and All Card programs. The city of Busan announced on April 4, 2024, that a system linking both cards would be developed, with a trial operation running until the end of the month to ensure a smooth rollout. The Dongbaek Pass, launched on August 1, 2023, is the first nationwide integrated public transport discount initiative in South Korea, covering various modes including buses, urban railways, and the Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit, with refunds administered through a local currency app, Dongbaekjeon.

Furthermore, the All Card was introduced to expand on the K-Pass, which works on a percentage refund system for residents utilizing public transport over specific thresholds. Residents using transport 15 or more times a month can receive a 20% refund on their fares, up to a maximum of 60 trips, while refunds are shared equally between government and local authorities. The All Card offers a fixed amount refund, where excess spending beyond a defined minimum of 55,000 won results in unlimited returns.

While significant benefits arise from participating in both discount programs, residents should be aware of minor complexities in the refund processes as the two systems employ distinct methodologies. The city has recorded over 813,298 subscribers to the Dongbaek Pass as of January 31, aiming for an expected city expenditure of 77.5 billion won ($65 million) on Dongbaek Pass refunds alone within 2024, highlighting a major commitment to supporting public transport accessibility in the region.

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