Supporting Sustainable Tourism in Seoul with the Climate Card Tourist Pass
Photo: Manki Kim on Unsplash
The spread of Korean pop culture worldwide, also known as Hallyu, has brought millions of international tourists to South Korea. While other cities and provinces also experience a surge in tourism, most visitors come to Seoul. In an effort to boost tourism and promote sustainability, the Seoul Metropolitan Government has introduced the Climate Card Tourist Pass for unlimited public transportation use.
South Korea’s Tourism and Emission Targets
South Korea’s tourism is on the rise. The country welcomed around 11 million visitors in 2023 alone.
On the other hand, South Korea has announced its renewed commitment to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 40% from the 2018 levels by 2030. This target requires bold changes and robust policies in all sectors, including transportation. In 2023, South Korea’s transportation sector reduced its emissions by 2.9% from the previous year, amounting to 95 million tons of reduction.
Meanwhile, the Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) plans to reduce GHG emissions in the Seoul area by 50% from the 2005 levels by 2033. The plan primarily targets the building, transportation, and energy sectors.
Seoul’s Climate Card Tourist Pass
Ensuring quality public transportation for all is one of the best evidence-based ways to create a more sustainable transport system. From July 1, 2024, the Climate Card Tourist Pass will allow international and short-stay domestic visitors unlimited use of Seoul’s public transportation.
There are four options: a one-day pass, a two-day pass, a three-day pass, and a five-day pass. The prices range from 5,000 KRW (3.66 USD) to 15,000 KRW (10.99 USD). Tourists can purchase the card at various places, such as the Tourist Information Centers in Seoul Tourism Plaza and Myeongdong, customer safety centers in subway stations on Lines 1 to 8, and convenience stores near subway stations.
Additionally, the Climate Card Tourist Pass includes benefits applicable at some cultural and performance facilities, such as a 50% discount to the Seoul Science Center and Seoul Grand Park. The Korea Herald reports that the card’s services may integrate the water bus service along the Han River in October.
Toward Carbon Neutrality
Beyond sustainable tourism, Seoul has been improving its air quality and aiming to reduce its emissions through various programs and policies. The Tourist Pass is actually a version of the existing Climate Card. Currently in its pilot period (January–June), the Climate Card gives 30-day access to Seoul’s public transportation and Seoul Bike for around 48 USD.
According to a report by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the air quality in the Seoul Capital Area has significantly improved. From 2005 to 2021, the region saw a 30-40% decrease in annual average coarse particulate matter (PM10). However, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions increased by 26% during that period.
“While past research focused primarily on air quality improvement, current studies aim to achieve both health benefits and energy transitions through carbon neutrality,” said Cho Kyeong-doo, Director General of the Incheon Carbon Neutrality Center. “Sustained investment to address climate change and improve air quality simultaneously will be pivotal going forward.”
Nazalea Kusuma
Naz is the Manager of International Digital Publications at Green Network Asia. She is an experienced and passionate writer, editor, proofreader, translator, and creative designer with over a decade of portfolio. Her history of living in multiple areas across Southeast Asia and studying Urban and Regional Planning exposed her to diverse peoples and cultures, enriching her perspectives and sharpening her intersectionality mindset in her storytelling and advocacy on sustainability-related issues and sustainable development.
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