Donghae Line, a high-speed rail corridor connecting Busan and Gangneung, has officially commenced operations as of January 1, 2025.
This monumental project links the largest cities in the southeastern and northeastern regions, respectively, promising to redefine travel dynamics along the East Sea coast. For both domestic and international travelers, this development offers a faster, more efficient means to explore the diverse landscapes and cultural treasures of South Korea.
Speed and Comfort: The ITX-Maeum Experience
The Donghae Line uses ITX-Maeum trains, designed for both speed and passenger comfort. Each train comprises multiple cars with a total length of approximately 200 meters, offering a mix of standard and premium seating options. Amenities include Wi-Fi connectivity, onboard refreshments, and spacious seating arrangements to ensure a pleasant journey.
Travel time between Busan and Gangneung has been significantly reduced. Prior to the Donghae Line’s completion, journeys between these cities often required indirect routes with multiple transfers, taking upwards of seven hours. With the new direct service, passengers can now traverse the distance in approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes. This improvement not only enhances convenience but also makes weekend getaways and business trips more feasible.
For context, the travel time between Seoul and Busan via the KTX is approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes, covering a distance of about 325 kilometers. The Busan-Gangneung route spans approximately 380 kilometers, and while the current travel time is longer, future upgrades are anticipated to further reduce the duration.
Economic and Cultural Implications
The operationalization of the Donghae Line is poised to have profound economic and cultural impacts. By facilitating easier access to the East Sea coast, the line is expected to boost tourism in cities like Ulsan, Pohang, and Samcheok, which boast unique attractions yet have remained relatively underexplored.
Moreover, Gangneung’s strategic position now enables it to function as a central hub, connecting travelers from Seoul to Busan seamlessly. This development encourages a more distributed travel itinerary, allowing tourists to experience the rich tapestry of South Korea’s coastal and urban offerings without the need for backtracking or complex travel plans.
Future Prospects: Enhanced Speed and Connectivity
Looking ahead, plans are underway to introduce the KTX-Eum trains to the Donghae Line by the end of 2025. These next-generation high-speed trains are capable of reaching speeds up to 260 km/h, which will further reduce travel times between Busan and Gangneung to approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes. This advancement will not only make the East Sea corridor more accessible but also position it as a competitive alternative to other major domestic travel routes.
Practical Information for Travelers
The first thing the travelers should remind about the Donghae Line is that the station in Busan is Bujeon Station, not Busan Station. Tickets for the ITX-Maeum can be purchased through the official Korail website, app, or at train stations across the country. Between Busan and Gangneung costs 34,900KRW, and fares vary by the destinations, offering an affordable alternative to air travel. Passengers are encouraged to book in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons, to secure preferred seating and schedules.
