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New bicycle-only lane opens on the main street in Seoul’s Jongno district
A dedicated bicycle lane has been created in central Seoul’s Jongno district. On Apr. 8, the city of Seoul opened up a 2.6 kilometer-long bike path measuring 1 to 1.5 meters in width between the Jongno 1-ga and 6-ga sections of downtown Seoul’s most prominent thoroughfare.
In addition to its location on one of central Seoul’s most symbolic roads alongside Sejong Road, the bike path is also significant in being intended exclusively for bicycles. Past bike lanes in central Seoul have typically been “bicycle priority” routes shared with automobiles, causing discomfort and potential risks for bicycle users.
The Jongno bike lane does have its limitations, traveling only in one direction outward from the city center on the southern side of Jongno Road. Because of this issue, the city is pursuing another project to establish another bicycle loan on the north side of Cheonggyecheon Road. It is also considering the creation of a bicycle priority lane on the northern side of Jongno Road.
To increase visibility, the Jongno bicycle lane has been painted red and fitted with solar-powered LED markers. Dividing strips and guide posts have also been put in place at intersections to prevent collisions between bicycles and right-turning traffic. For the safety of bikers, the speed limit on Jongno Road has been reduced from 60 to 50 km/hr.
The dedicated bike lane is to be given the same status as a dedicated bus lane, with violations punishable by fines: 40,000 won (US$37.60) for motorcycles, 50,000 won (US$47.00) for regular cars, and 60,000 won (US$56.40) for vans or larger vehicles. The city of Seoul plans to follow up the opening of the Jongno bike lane by establishing 73 km of bicycle paths connecting downtown with various parts of the city.
By Kim Kyu-won, staff reporter
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