Driverless Autonomous Shuttle to Debut in Downtown Seoul
Seoul Metropolitan Government has announced that a driverless autonomous shuttle, developed with domestic technology, will begin operating along the Cheonggyecheon Stream at the end of September. This pilot program marks the first time a fully autonomous shuttle, completely devoid of a driver's seat and steering wheel, will be showcased to the public in Korea.
The shuttle is a small 11-seater bus with nine seats arranged in a rounded 'ㄷ' shape. The interior is equipped with convenience features for vulnerable road users, including a large display for providing travel information and a wheelchair lift. Two shuttles are currently being prepared for operation, and they will travel a 4.8km circular route, starting from Cheonggye Plaza, passing through Cheonggye 5-ga (Gwangjang Market), and returning to Cheonggye Plaza.
Trial runs began on August 22nd, and after safety verification, the shuttle will be open to public riders. Operating hours are from 10 AM to 5 PM on weekdays. Service will not be available on Saturdays and public holidays due to the Cheonggyecheon-ro car-free street operation. The fare will be free for the time being, and passengers can board by tapping their transportation card, just like a regular city bus.
Seoul City anticipates that the autonomous shuttle will not only provide an opportunity to experience the future of transportation but will also contribute to revitalizing the local economy, as Cheonggyecheon Stream is a popular destination for both foreign tourists and local citizens.
Yeo Jang-kwon, Head of the Seoul Metropolitan Government's Transportation Bureau, stated, "The driverless autonomous shuttle will become a new milestone in the future of public transportation. We will develop it into a world-class autonomous driving service through future initiatives such as nighttime operation, route expansion, and full automation."
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