The integrated Korail+ app was launched on Aug. 3 before the merged service between the KTX and SRT high-speed rail trains next month. Shown is a KTX train coupled with an SRT car in a double-unit configuration. (Korea Railroad Corp.)
By Uyen Nguyen
The newly launched integrated app Korail+ allows access to both the KTX (Korea Train Express) and SRT (Super Rapid Train) high-speed trains on a single platform.
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport on Aug. 2 announced with the Korea Railroad (Korail) Corp. and SR (Supreme Railways) plans to improve and integrate high-speed rail service.
Launched on Aug. 3, the app is an update of the previous Korail app and provides customized information, simplified train searches and an integrated payment function.
Tickets for the integrated KTX-SRT service begins on Sept. 1 and will go on sale from Aug. 5 at 10 a.m. on the app and the Korail website.
The merger will add up to 17,000 additional seats per day on weekends and boost seat capacity on trains departing from Suseo Station about 30%.
High-speed rail fares will be adjusted to the SRT level, or an average 10% cheaper than KTX fares. Passengers will also earn 5% mileage points on payments for SRT routes.
Transfer discounts from regular trains and online special fares, which were unavailable for SRT, will be extended to SRT services.
Available in seven languages, the app will offer a range of customized services for foreign users such as a multilingual chatbot based on artificial intelligence, extended booking periods, and expanded installation of translation and interpretation services.
A demonstration event at Suseo Station will mark the launch of the app. Promotional booths at nine major rail stations nationwide will help users install the app and convert to the integrated membership.
Those who complete both the installation and membership conversion will receive souvenirs.
Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Kim Yun-duk said, "We will thoroughly prepare so that the public can use high-speed rail more conveniently through a single app."
uyen81@korea.kr
