Hong Ji-sun, the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, announced plans to link housing supply with transportation network expansion during the establishment of the 5th National Railroad Network Plan. He stated that the government will consider increasing investments based on future demand.
On November 13, Minister Hong spoke at the '5th National Railroad Network Plan Public Consultation Event' held at the Korea Construction Association in Dongjak-gu, Seoul. He emphasized, "Housing and transportation must go hand in hand," adding, "Even if new housing is supplied, if people cannot conveniently travel between workplaces and homes, it will be difficult to significantly enhance life satisfaction."
He further stressed the importance of ensuring that residents in the metropolitan area do not suffer from transportation inconveniences for long periods and that transportation networks connecting regional hubs and surrounding cities are developed in a timely manner.
The 5th National Railroad Network Plan is the highest-level plan in the railroad sector, outlining the long-term expansion direction of the railroad network over the next decade. Minister Hong stated that this plan aims to support the government's three mega projects and facilitate the formation of ultra-wide economic and living zones by connecting regional hubs and surrounding cities in the '5 poles and 3 special zones'.
While acknowledging that the development of railroads takes a long time from planning to operation, he noted the need to consider future demand when reviewing investment increases. However, he also pointed out that government funding is limited and existing projects must be completed without delays.
He added, "Although many railroad projects have been proposed from various regions, it is difficult to reflect all of them. We will comprehensively examine economic viability, balanced development, and intercity connectivity to find a reasonable direction."
Additionally, he mentioned that this year, not only the national railroad network but also major plans for highway construction and comprehensive airport development are expected to be announced. He assured that the opinions gathered from today's discussions and preliminary surveys will be reviewed and incorporated into the 5th National Railroad Network Plan in consultation with relevant agencies.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.