Busan will begin testing cashless city buses in October as the city moves toward a transportation system increasingly centered on transit cards and other electronic payments.
The three-month pilot will cover 542 buses on 35 routes, representing about 20% of the city’s bus fleet. Routes with relatively low rates of cash payment, including seated bus services, will make up most of the trial.
Busan said cash use on city buses has continued to decline, while maintaining fare boxes and processing cash still requires additional costs and staff.
Removing cash payments could also reduce delays and safety concerns caused by drivers handling money during trips.
Passengers carrying only cash will still be allowed to board during the pilot. They will instead be given information allowing them to pay the fare afterward by bank transfer.
The city also plans to distribute transit cards in areas frequently visited by older residents, including traditional markets, and provide advance information about affected routes.
Busan will review passenger complaints, alternative payment use and feedback from drivers and bus companies during the trial before deciding how to expand the cashless system across the city’s bus network.
