This photo provided by the transport ministry shows an image of the EMU-370, South Korea’s next-generation high-speed train. (Yonhap)
SEOUL, Dec. 22 (Korea Bizwire) — South Korea has completed development of the core technologies for a next-generation high-speed train designed to operate at up to 370 kilometers per hour, positioning the country among a small group of nations competing at the frontier of rail-speed technology, the transport ministry said Monday.
The train, known as the EMU-370, has a technically engineered top speed of 407 kph and was developed under a government-backed research program aimed at advancing domestic rail capabilities. Manufacturing of the first trainsets is expected to begin next year, with test operations planned for 2030 and commercial service targeted after 2031.
If deployed as planned, the EMU-370 would become the world’s second-fastest commercial high-speed train, trailing only China’s CR450, which is currently undergoing testing at speeds of up to 400 kph ahead of its expected launch in 2027.
Most advanced rail networks, including those in France, Germany and Japan, currently operate high-speed services at around 320 kph, underscoring the technological leap represented by the Korean project.
The development program ran from April 2022 through December 2025 and was led by the Korea Railroad Research Institute, with participation from seven public and private organizations. Total investment reached 22.5 billion won, or about $15 million, with roughly 80% funded by the government and the remainder provided by the private sector.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
