“100 Won Taxi” Program Brings Inexpensive Transportation to Rural Areas

Starting next year, the government will roll out an affordable transportation program for agricultural communities throughout 82 counties nationwide, which includes a cheap form of taxi travel that has earned the title “100 Won Taxi”. (Image: Yonhap)

SEOUL, Dec. 14 (Korea Bizwire) – Starting next year, the government will roll out an affordable transportation program for agricultural communities throughout 82 counties nationwide, which includes a cheap form of taxi travel that has earned the title “100 Won Taxi”.

The government program also includes the use of minibuses as replacement transportation services for the elderly and financially disadvantaged civilians, who find both driving and public transportation difficult.

The 100 Won Taxi program was first started by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs in South Jeolla province in 2014. Since then, the program has been introduced to 10 to 20 municipalities every year. 

Despite its designated name, a cab ride may go up to, but not exceed, 1,200 won per person (the typical bus fare for one rider) via an arrangement between the ministry and the municipalities. 

The 100 Won Taxi program was first started by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs in South Jeolla province in 2014. Since then, the program has been introduced to 10 to 20 municipalities every year. (Image: Yonhap)

Financial support for the program will be split between the central and local governments, with the former assuming 50 percent, and the city/province and city/county putting up 10 percent and 40 percent, respectively. Previously, support was evenly split between the central and the city/county governments.

Efforts to encourage the establishment of nonprofit corporations providing bus services will be undertaken, and local business proposals that are linked with the government’s transportation program for agricultural communities will be incentivized.

Farming areas within cities and other districts that are lagging behind in development will be provided with public taxis via the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.

Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)