Intermodal connectivity and its impacts on HSR ridership : Seoul Station and Yongsan Station, South Korea

Abstract

South Korea launched its first high-speed rail (HSR) system in 2004. The primary goal of developing the system was to serve the citizens with improved regional mobility. The government has also invested a large amount of capital in providing amenities and convenience to passengers for the purpose of increasing HSR ridership; improving intermodal connectivity is among the efforts taken by the government and related agencies Yet whether improved intermodal connectivity translates into increased HSR ridership remains under-documented and under-researched. . This professional report examines the question by focusing on two HSR stations in the South Koreea case: Seoul Station and Yongsan Station. This report first presents the basis information about Korean HSR and the stations. It then documents government programs pertaining to intermodal connectivity. For reference purposes, a number of international cases are also reviewed and presented. Lastly, the PR examines the relationship between intermodal connectivity and HSR ridership and offers policy recommendations aiming at increasing ridership and enhancing services.