Yongin City, South Korea, is set to introduce two new express bus routes connecting its residents to Seoul, with operations scheduled to begin in the latter half of the year. These routes, designated M4116 and M4105, have received approval for public operation from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and the Capital Region Metropolitan Area Transport Committee. The initiative aims to significantly improve public transportation options for citizens commuting between Yongin and the capital.
Expanded Connectivity for Yongin Residents
The introduction of these express bus services is a direct response to the growing demand for efficient public transit in both the southwestern and southeastern regions of Yongin. The new lines are designed to bridge the gap in current transit infrastructure, offering direct and convenient access to key Seoul destinations.
Route M4116: Connecting Gangnam and Seoul Station
Route M4116 will serve as a vital link, with Gangnam Station as its primary hub. The bus will travel through several key Yongin locations, including Suwon Country Club, Giheung Station, and areas like Lotte Castle Sky, I-an Dream, Baeknam-jun Art Center, Sangmi Village, and Singal 5-ri, before reaching Seoul Station. This route will utilize a fleet of five 71-seater, double-decker electric buses. To accommodate peak commuter hours, three additional round trips will be operated during the morning commute. These modern buses are equipped with air purifiers and mobile phone charging stations, enhancing passenger comfort and convenience. Operation for this route is slated to commence after the installation of charging facilities at the Namdong Public Garage is completed.
Route M4105: Linking Yangji Pine Resort to Seoul Station
Commencing service on August 1st, Route M4105 will originate from Yangji Pine Resort. Its itinerary includes stops at Yangji Sageori, Dongbu Dong Administrative Center, Seoul Hospital, Goryeong-go, Yurim-dong, Bangchuk, Dunjeon Station, Pogeok, Jeondae, and Everland, before concluding its journey at Seoul Station. A total of eight 45-seater Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses will operate on this route, running 32 round trips daily. Similar to M4116, these buses will also feature air purifiers and mobile phone charging ports.
A Long-Awaited Development
The establishment of these new express bus routes is the culmination of sustained efforts by Yongin City, dating back to 2022. City officials have been actively conducting demand surveys and advocating for the new lines to address the commuting challenges faced by residents.
Mayor Lee Sang-il of Yongin City played a crucial role in this process. In June 2024, he met with the Second Minister of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport to articulate the difficulties faced by citizens commuting to Seoul. This advocacy led to the selection of the new routes by the Capital Region Metropolitan Area Transport Committee in November of the previous year. Subsequently, the city proceeded with selecting a transportation operator, engaging in priority negotiations, and finalizing the operational agreements, culminating in the recent approval for public operation.
Commitment to Commuter Convenience
Mayor Lee expressed optimism about the positive impact of the new services. “We anticipate that the introduction of these express bus routes will significantly enhance the convenience for citizens traveling to and from Seoul Station,” he stated. “We are committed to meticulously completing all preparations, including vehicle deployment and charging infrastructure, to ensure a stable and reliable service for our residents.”
The city is focused on ensuring a seamless launch, with thorough checks on vehicles, charging facilities, and operational readiness. This proactive approach aims to provide Yongin residents with a dependable and comfortable public transportation experience as they navigate their daily commutes to Seoul.
