After nearly 60 years, streetcars are set to return to the streets of Seoul, marking a major milestone in the city’s transportation history. The upcoming Wirye Line tram project represents the revival of a transit system that first began operating in Seoul in 1899 and continued for roughly 70 years before being discontinued in 1968. This modern comeback reflects both technological progress and a renewed interest in sustainable, accessible urban mobility.
{img}The new Wirye Line will connect Wirye New Town with Macheon Station, while also linking key transfer points such as Bokjeong Station and Namwirye Station. The route will stretch approximately 5.4 kilometers and include 12 stops, improving accessibility for residents and commuters in southeastern Seoul. Once operational, the tram is expected to arrive every 5 to 10 minutes during peak hours, helping ease travel in areas with limited subway coverage.
{img}Unlike earlier tram systems, the new line will feature battery-powered, wire-free vehicles, reducing visual clutter from overhead cables and supporting environmentally friendly transport solutions. Trial runs are scheduled ahead of the official launch, with full passenger service planned for 2026, marking the first street-level tram operations in Seoul since the late 1960s. The revival reflects a broader shift in urban planning priorities, where cities increasingly recognize the role of surface rail in complementing buses and subways.
{img}Beyond transportation benefits, the return of trams carries symbolic importance. Historically, streetcars played a central role in shaping Seoul’s early urban mobility network after their introduction in 1899. Their reintroduction represents a full-circle moment in the capital’s development, combining historical legacy with modern innovation. As Seoul continues expanding its transit infrastructure, the Wirye Line is expected to improve connectivity while offering residents and visitors a glimpse of both the city’s past and its future.