The first phase of Daejeon's urban rail plan includes 63.43 kilometers of new lines to improve public transport and regional connectivity
Category: Politics
Daejeon City has received final approval for its ambitious urban rail development plan, which includes the construction of three main subway lines and two tram lines, totaling 63.43 kilometers. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced on June 26, 2026, that the plan, known as the "First Phase of Daejeon Urban Rail Network Construction Plan," has successfully passed the National Transport Commission's review.
This comprehensive rail network aims to boost Daejeon's urban competitiveness and expand public transportation infrastructure, addressing the city's growing transit needs. The approved plan includes the main subway lines 3, 4, and 5, along with two tram lines of the second subway line, which are set to significantly improve connectivity across the city.
The three main subway lines will cover a total of 61.4 kilometers, with the addition of 2.03 kilometers of tram lines. The subway line 3, extending 29.2 kilometers, will connect Shin Tan Jin, Dunsan, Busa, Seokgyo, Gao, and San Nae, and is projected to serve approximately 54,340 passengers daily by 2035. This line aims to reduce travel time between areas that have historically been underserved by public transport.
Meanwhile, subway line 4 will span 19 kilometers, linking Deokmyeong, Hakha, Doan, Seonhwa, Daejeon Complex Terminal, and Songchon. It is expected to have the highest daily ridership among the new lines, with around 54,384 users anticipated each day. This line is strategically positioned to facilitate access to the Gyeongju National Industrial Complex, promoting industrial development and new residential areas.
The fifth line will connect the Daejeon Convention Center, Daejeon Government Complex, and the Daejeon O-world, covering a distance of 13.2 kilometers. It is estimated to attract about 52,791 daily riders, and this figure is expected to rise significantly with the planned construction of the Central Express Train (CTX) station at the government complex.
The tram lines of the second subway line consist of the Kyochon line, measuring 0.81 kilometers, and the Hoeduk line, measuring 1.22 kilometers. These tram lines aim to open simultaneously with the main subway line, enhancing the city’s public transport options.
The approval of this urban rail network marks a historic step for Daejeon, which has been working toward establishing a modern public transportation system since the opening of the first subway line in March 2006. The city has recognized the need for additional rail infrastructure following the successful launch of subway line 2 in April 2021, which sparked discussions on the necessity for expanded rail services.
The urban rail construction plan is based on three key objectives: promoting balanced urban development, enhancing the rail connectivity system, and supporting a carbon-neutral transportation framework. The strategic planning comes in response to the growing population and urban sprawl, which have increased the demand for efficient public transport.
In line with the revised Urban Rail Act of 2014, all new urban rail projects must be incorporated into a 10-year urban rail network construction plan for approval. This regulatory requirement has provided a legal foundation for Daejeon to proceed with its ambitious rail expansion project.
Following the final approval, Daejeon City will initiate a series of administrative procedures, including pre-feasibility studies and the establishment of detailed plans for the construction of the new rail lines. The city plans to explore various vehicle systems and construction methods during this phase to determine the most effective and economically viable options.
Yoo Deok-won, Daejeon’s Deputy Mayor, emphasized the significance of this approval, stating, "This marks a historic starting point for Daejeon to become a transportation innovation city within a 30-minute metropolitan area. We are committed to reducing transit deserts and addressing urban polarization and population decline, ensuring that all citizens can move conveniently within a green transportation city."
As Daejeon moves forward with these plans, the integration of the new rail lines with existing public transport systems is expected to greatly improve accessibility for residents, particularly those in underserved areas. The city anticipates that the completion of this urban rail network will facilitate easier commuting and stimulate economic growth and urban revitalization.
With the groundwork laid for this extensive urban rail project, Daejeon is set to transform its transportation infrastructure over the coming years, aiming for a more connected and sustainable urban environment for its residents.