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KORAIL launches 'ondol and Jacuzzi' trains

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/ Courtesy of KORAIL

By Lee Ji-hye

The nation’s express railway announced plans to launch a traditional luxury service for those travelling over the lunar New Year holidays ­ heated floors.

KORAIL will launch the “West Gold Train” that leaves for seven “golden” destinations along the western coast of the peninsula. Each train has one car with heated floors, called “ondol” in Korean. The special cars have rooms in which people can sit on the floor.

Another car will feature foot spa seats and Jacuzzi tubs. Tea and snacks are served.

/ Courtesy of KORAIL

One of these special trains will leave from Yongsan station in Seoul every Thursday through Saturday. It stops will provide access to Asan Hot Springs, Sudeoksa Temple, Daecheon Beach, the National Institute of Ecology, Gunsan’s cultural heritage street and the Iksan Jewelry Museum.

The train ride also includes entertainment shows including stand-up comedy performances from comedians.

/ Courtesy of KORAIL

A launching ceremony will take place at Seoul Station on Jan. 29, showcasing the trains and their “jeweled” exteriors designed to reflect the sunlight.

Tickets will be sold at train stations nationwide and through KORAIL’s smartphone app, KorailTalk.

For more information, visit the official website, www.letskorail.com or call 1544-7788 (English language services included).