SEOUL, July 1 (AJP) - Passengers are no longer allowed to bring large-capacity lithium batteries on subways in Seoul under new regulations taking effect on Wednesday.
They are prohibited from bringing lithium batteries exceeding 160 watt-hours (Wh) and battery-powered personal mobility devices, including electric bicycles, electric scooters and electric unicycles into subway stations and other railway stations in metropolitan areas.
The ban, which came after a series of fires involving lithium batteries, is part of measures to enhance safety on public transportation.
But electric wheelchairs and medical scooters will be exempt from the ban to protect the rights of passengers with disabilities.
According to Seoul Metro, the restriction applies only to lithium batteries exceeding 160Wh, which are typically used in personal mobility devices. Most everyday electronic devices including smartphones, tablets, laptops and commonly used portable power banks, fall below that level and remain permitted.
A 160Wh battery is roughly equivalent to a 43,000 mAh power bank. Standard portable chargers with capacities of 10,000 mAh to 20,000 mAh can still be carried, although passengers are advised to check the capacity of their devices, as specifications vary by model.
However, concerns remain as some passengers may carry high-capacity batteries in their bags, which are difficult to identify without inspecting passengers' belongings.
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