Seoul Metropolitan Council passes ordinance bill for free bus rides for those aged 70 and older
Controversy over free bus rides in Seoul, expanding transportation welfare for those aged 70 and older and the financial burden Check the points of contention for and against, the budget 규모, and even the policy impact
As the Seoul Metropolitan Council’s Transportation Committee passed an ordinance bill that includes support for free bus rides for Seoul residents aged 70 and older, debate for and against it continues. The ordinance bill aims to improve mobility convenience for older adults and expand transportation welfare.
Supporters believe it can reduce transportation costs for seniors who mainly use buses and guarantee their right to mobility. On the other hand, opponents worry that, with an already existing financial burden from free subway rides, expanding the policy to buses as well could worsen public transportation finances and increase congestion.
The council estimated that implementing this system would require an annual budget of more than 100 billion won. Experts point out that, considering the pace of population aging, the sustainability of public finances must also be examined.