Seoul subway

Seoul subway
Originally uploaded by Jerry Tok.

Someone ask me why I suddenly write about the Singapore MRT (subway). Well the reason is this, I feel a bit intimidated by Seoul's subway. The map is the prove. I thought Singapore MRT very "sat" (hokkein word for impressive) already. By writing about the driverless system on the Circle Line (due for completion in 2010), I feel less intimidated.

There are 9 lines in total. There are some many lines that most Seoul ppl aren't even sure. Contactless card, just like the EZ-link card in Singapore, are used on the subway as well as public buses. There are adequate designated seats for the seniors, I notice that most commuters observe this rule and avoid sitting on those seats, even if no seniors are using them. Trains are generally clean and spotless, with occasion mini advertisement stuck on the walls. I was told that eating and drinking is not allow on the trains BUT allow on the platform. You can find many vending machines around the station. Well, there are commuters who did not observe this regulation but there are only a handful. Announcement are made in Korean and English. I prefer those trains that has LED display to show the approaching station.

One unique and interesting sight on the train is people selling products on the train (while it is moving) Usually these 'sales person' push a medium size trolley and go from 1 cabin to another. They will stand in the middle of the cabin and display their products, from MP3 players to umbrella to trekking poles (walking stick for trekkers). To catch the attention of the
commuters, they have to walk around the cabin and raise their voice. I notice that most commuters seems oblivious to their presence while some expresses vague interest. I am curious at what they are selling but usually I pretend not to be playing attention, in case I sent the wrong signal to them. Who knows, you might get a scolding for expressing interest but not purchase.

I find the seat space slightly narrow. I mean you feel like sitting at the back of a Kia Picanto with 3 adult men. I guess the train seats are design exclusively for Koreans, since most Asian frame are not as gigantic as the overweight Americans (sorry to mention this but it's true, there are many overweight Americans.) There aren't many foreigners (non-Asian) in Seoul. On the average, I meet 1 foreigner per train at the most.

As for the interchange, I still like the interchange in Singapore. I am referring to Jurong East, Raffles Place, City Hall and Expo station. Changing trains is as easy as walk 15m to the platform across. If the Olympic has 15m sprint event, I think Singaporean would excel. We love running across the platform to catch the train. Especially during office hours at Raffles Place station. Don't need Asics most high tech running shoes or Nike DriFit running attire. These office workers can sprint well in their business shoes and high heel shoes for the women. As for Seoul, a typical distance to get to a connecting train is about 2 mins walk.