The basic fare for subway line 9, which is slated to open in 2009, is expected to be around 1,300 won, 40 percent higher than the current 1,000 won (900 won with a travel card) on other lines.
The new line has been under construction since 2001, and covers the 25.5 kilometers from Gimpo International Airport in Gonghang-dong, western Seoul, to Nonhyeon-dong in Gangnam-gu, southern Seoul.
The higher charge is largely attributed to the project inviting private investment from companies that demanded a guarantee of profits in their contracts, the Seoul Metropolitan Government said Monday.
``The possible fare will be around 1,300 won as the estimation shows 1,264 won is the break-even rate without considering inflation and guarantees to investors,'' a city official said.
The final fare will be decided six months ahead of the official launch of the line, he said.
But the new line will also follow the additional charge system as other lines, which require passengers to pay an extra 100 won for every 5 kilometers after they travel over 10 kilometers.