Seoul Subway Lines 1-8 Face Severe Deficit as Operating Costs Outpace Fares

Last year, Seoul Subway Lines 1 through 8 incurred an average loss of 781 won per passenger, recovering only 57% of transportation costs through fares. This was because it cost 1,817 won to carry one passenger, while the average fare collected was only 1,036 won.

As the deficit grows, with operating costs for public transportation exceeding fares, there is an urgent need for support measures to address the cost burden from free rides and other public services. According to the company's cost analysis, the appropriate base fare to fully cover transportation costs would be 2,591 won.

The costs borne by the company for public services, including free rides, increased by 70% over five years, from 479.2 billion won in 2020 to 816.7 billion won in 2025. Free rides accounted for the largest portion of public service losses last year, totaling 448.8 billion won.