Sun, 22 Dec 2002

Easy, comfortable ride in Busan

Heavy traffic and expensive fares no longer trouble the residents of Busan, South Korea. Their dreams of a comfortable and cheap rapid transportation system was fulfilled in 1995 with the development of the Busan Subway, which extends to all corners of the city.

With fares of a mere 600 to 700 Korean won (about Rp 4,200 to Rp 4,900), half a million commuters enjoy the ride during work days.

The Seomyeon Subway Station is also a feast to the eyes for art lovers and shopaholics, who are greeted by reproduction of paintings from world renown artists and sculptures, as well as a line of boutiques and shops lighting up the subway station.

The credit, however, should go to the commuters whose discipline and awareness keep the public facility in order.

Text and photos by Arief Suhardiman