The Seoul Metropolitan Council passed an ordinance Wednesday afternoon to subsidize transportation costs for elderly residents, with 69 of 75 sitting members voting in favor, one against and five abstaining. The bill was introduced by council member Lee Byeong-yun of the People Power Party, representing Dongdaemun District 1.
Under the ordinance, the Seoul Metropolitan Government may cover part or all of the transportation costs — within its budget — for residents aged 70 or older who are registered in Seoul and meet criteria set by the mayor.
With the ordinance's passage, the city has established a legal basis to provide free bus rides for older residents. The specific scope and method of support will be determined by the city at a later date.
Seoul is also considering extending the free-ride benefit — currently available only on the subway — to buses, from which elderly passengers have been excluded. The city is additionally reviewing a proposal to raise the eligibility age for free subway rides from 65 to 70.
betterj@heraldcorp.com
