South Gyeongsang's First "100-Won Bus for All Residents"... Hadong County's Transportation Welfare Policy Gains Traction

Adoption of Similar Policies in Neighboring Cities and Counties
Increase in Ridership and Revitalization of the Local Economy

The "100-won Bus for All Residents" policy, implemented by Hadong County in South Gyeongsang Province as the first of its kind in the region, is drawing attention as it expands transportation welfare and influences the spread of similar policies in neighboring local governments.

The county launched the 100-won bus policy for teenagers in January 2023, becoming the first in the province to do so. Since July 2024, the program has been expanded to include all residents.

Hadong County explained that the policy has not only reduced transportation costs and improved convenience for residents but also enhanced access to the area for tourists, as the benefit is extended to them as well.

Hadong-gun, 100 Won Hadong Bus Photo

In particular, the policy is credited with strengthening daily transportation infrastructure in conjunction with the county's "Compact Attractive City" development initiative.

This policy has also impacted neighboring cities and counties. Sancheong County has implemented free rural bus service, while Hamyang County has introduced free bus rides for seniors and teenagers.

Additionally, Jinju and Tongyeong are operating 100-won bus services for children and teenagers, and Changwon City is promoting free city bus rides for residents aged 75 and older. Uiryeong County has adopted a fully public bus system with free bus operations.

The number of users has also increased. In the first year of implementation in 2024, the annual number of users was 313,583, but after expanding the program to all residents, it rose to 412,508—an increase of approximately 31.5%.

The county estimates that this increase in usage has led to more residents going out and visiting traditional markets, generating an economic effect of about 5 billion won per year.

Hadong County plans to continue expanding its transportation welfare policies to further strengthen mobility rights for its residents.

Meanwhile, Hadong County is operating the nation's first rural autonomous bus service. Since January of the previous year, the autonomous bus has been running on routes connecting major residential hubs in Hadong-eup.

According to the county, a passenger survey showed that over 99% expressed willingness to use the service again, and as of February 2026, the number of passengers had increased by 51.5% compared to the first year of operation, indicating strong user satisfaction.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.