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Start of Autonomous Bus Test Operation at the Osiria Tourism Complex
Busan City will conduct free test operation of autonomous buses for about 3 months at the Osiria Tourism Complex from September 16 to the end of December. This is a test phase aimed at formal operation in January 2026, providing an opportunity for citizens and tourists to experience the service directly.
This test operation will be conducted 28 times a day on Routes A and B starting from Donghae Line Osiria Station. The operation hours are from 9:45 AM to 5:55 PM on weekdays, and there will be no operation on the first Friday of each month.
Information Related to Busan Autonomous Driving Project
Operation of Level 3 Autonomous Electric Buses
The vehicles in operation are 4 electric buses that correspond to Level 3 autonomous driving. Each bus can accommodate a maximum of 15 passengers. Level 3 autonomous driving is a stage where the vehicle can operate automatically under certain conditions, and for the safety of passengers, a test driver and safety personnel are always on board. In addition, manual driving may be used in certain sections.
The city is working to confirm the stability of the technology and hear citizens' opinions based on the data collected during the test operation period. The feedback obtained in this process will be reflected, and formal operation is expected to begin in January next year. The fare during formal operation will be set the same as the city bus.
Detailed Information on Line A and Line B
Route A operates 16 times a day and takes about 35 minutes. This route starts from Osiria Station, passes National Busan Science Museum Entrance, National Busan Science Museum, Lotte Mall, and IKEA, and then returns to Osiria Station. Key departure times include 9:45, 10:45, 11:40, 1:10, 2:10, 2:55, 3:40, and 5:10.
Route B operates 12 times a day and takes about 50 minutes. This route starts from Osiria Station, passes Lotte Mall, East Busan Tourism Complex, Yonggungsa and National Fisheries Science Museum, Dongam Main Gate and Dongam Rear Gate, East Busan Outlet, and returns to Osiria Station via Lotte Mall. Key departure times include 9:50, 11:15, 12:40, 2:05, 3:05, 4:30, and 5:05.
Please note that actual dispatch times may vary depending on traffic conditions and weather, so checking is necessary.
How to Board and Precautions
Autonomous buses can be boarded directly without prior reservation. However, considering safety, children under the age of 6 are prohibited from boarding. If you wish to travel with children aged 6 to 13, a guardian's accompaniment is required, and a maximum of two children per guardian can board.
The First Step of Busan as a Leading City in Future Mobility
Busan City has designated the Osiria Tourism Complex as an autonomous driving test operation zone and has established the relevant infrastructure. This test operation aims to facilitate more convenient movement for tourists while also validating the model for autonomous public transportation services.
This test operation is expected to be a significant opportunity for Busan to leap forward as a 'leading city in future mobility'. We look forward to Busan's innovative changes and anticipate its future development.