The ninth subway line linking Gimpo Airport and Gangnam in southern Seoul will open at 7:00 pm, Friday, the Seoul Metropolitan Government said Monday. The opening comes after repeated delays due to technical problems.
``With all the problems involving fare correction systems fixed and all safety issues cleared, we've decided to open the new line on July 24,'' the city said in a statement.
The city originally planned to open the line on July 12, but had to delay the ribbon-cutting due to malfunctions in the fare charging system.
Trains will start services on the first 25.5-kilometer section of Subway line 9, from Gimpo Airport to Sinnonhyeon in southeastern Seoul. The line will reduce the commuting time connecting western Seoul and southern Seoul through an express train that stops at nine stops, taking only 30 minutes to get to Gangnam from the airport.
The basic fare will be 900 won, the same as existing subway lines. The new trains have been installed with wider seats and low hand straps for children, and have had doors removed between carriages for easier movement for the disabled. All stations are equipped with powder rooms and diaper changing facilities as well as children's toilets.