Seoul City has launched a health maintenance challenge aimed at promoting its 'Wrist Doctor 9988' app, which awards points to users for visiting designated Han River Bus stops without requiring proof of actual physical activity. The challenge, running from the 9th of this month until the end of next month, involves users visiting three out of seven specific bus stops along the Han River to claim points on the app via GPS confirmation. This has raised eyebrows, as critics argue that the structure effectively incentivizes bus ridership rather than encouraging users to engage meaningfully in health-promoting activities such as walking or exercising.

Critics claim that merely visiting the bus stops to earn points undermines the health-oriented goals of the 'Wrist Doctor 9988' program, which is designed to facilitate walking, exercise, and dietary management through smart technology. Previously, the program awarded points based on actual physical activity, but there are concerns that the new point system could shift focus away from health towards increasing bus usage, especially in light of the city's increased budgetary burdens associated with rising participation in the program. The initiative reportedly involves an investment of approximately 20 million KRW to fund the point payouts, raising further questions about its budgeting priorities and effectiveness in genuinely promoting health.

In defense of the initiative, Seoul City officials point to survey results indicating that residents utilize parks and waterfront areas for exercise. They argue that walking between bus stops constitutes a form of exercise and is appropriate for the spring season when outdoor activities increase. However, the backlash highlights a larger discussion about the integrity and intent of health initiatives and whether they inadvertently become tools for unrelated purposes such as public transportation promotion, rather than genuinely helping residents improve their physical well-being.