KTX and SRT train reservations to be integrated via 'KORAIL Plus' app

South Korea's high-speed rail services, KTX and SRT, will begin integrated operations in September, following the Fair Trade Commission's final approval of the corporate merger. To facilitate this transition, a unified ticketing application named 'KORAIL Plus' will be launched on August 3. This move is expected to streamline the booking process, especially in anticipation of the Chuseok holiday travel rush.

The integration promises significant benefits for passengers. Over the next three years, average fares are projected to decrease by about 10% compared to current KTX prices, aligning them with SRT fare levels. The new 'KORAIL Plus' app will allow users to book tickets for both KTX and SRT trains, with timetable and fare information available from August 3. Existing KORAIL and SR members will need to transition to a unified membership, while KORAIL-only members will be automatically converted.

Beyond fare reductions, the merger will introduce new conveniences. Mileage accumulation will remain consistent with current SRT rates at 5% of the payment amount. Seat availability is expected to increase by approximately 6%, with an additional 116,000 seats per week nationwide, particularly on the popular Suseo line. Transfer discounts between high-speed and conventional trains will be implemented, and online special discounts of up to 30%, previously exclusive to KTX, will be extended to SRT routes. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport anticipates that this integration will improve access to major medical facilities in Seoul for residents in regional areas.