Seoul Metro pilots world's first tagless payment tech

An official demonstrates the tagless gate system at Samyang Sageori Station on the Ui-Sinseol line in Gangbuk District, northern Seoul, on Wednesday. [YONHAP]

Korea implemented a tagless payment system in its subway stations, becoming the first country to deploy such a technology.

The tagless payment system was activated at 12 stations on Seoul's Ui-Sinseol light rail line, with the exception of Bomun Station, effective from Wednesday, in collaboration with transportation card provider Tmoney and the Seoul Metropolitan Government.

The system eliminates the need to physically tap transportation cards on turnstiles when passing through subway gates. Instead, an overhead antenna detects Bluetooth signals from passengers' smartphones, automatically making the transaction.

Passengers are required to download the "Mobile Tmoney" application and turn on Bluetooth to utilize the touchless system. Those who already have the app can update to the latest version to gain access to the feature.

However, the feature is not yet available for iPhones using the iOS system.

"With just a phone, payment becomes effortless for everyone, including those with luggage or an umbrella in hand, individuals using crutches or wheelchairs, and even young children or the elderly who may find operating machinery challenging," Tmoney explained.

Traditionally, transportation card payments in Korea have relied on Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, where passengers must physically touch their cards to readers within a close range, typically around 20 centimeters (7.8 inches). In contrast, the newly introduced touchless system utilizes Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology, capable of recognizing signals within a more extensive range, approximately 10 meters.

Passing through the gate without activating the touchless feature will sound an alarm and close the gate, obstructing the passenger's path. Ten strategically positioned sensors inside the gate detect any unauthorized entry attempts.

Seoul City plans to expand contactless payment systems across various modes of transportation, including more subway lines and self-driving buses.

"By commercializing contactless public transportation payment systems, we will make Seoul's public transportation services world-class and people-centered," said Yoon Jong-jang, head of the City Transportation Office at the Seoul Metropolitan Government.

BY SEO JI-EUN [seo.jieun1@joongang.co.kr]