Real-time translation kiosk begins service at Myeong-dong Station

Seoul Metro is testing a system that allows simultaneous conversations between foreigners and subway station personnel in foreign languages starting Monday at Myeong-dong Station. [SEOUL METRO]

Seoul Metro implemented a real-time multilingual communication system at Myeong-dong Station on Line 4, facilitating simultaneous conversations between foreign tourists and subway station personnel in their native languages.

The system, featuring transparent organic light-emitting diode displays, is serviced in 13 languages, including English, Japanese, Chinese, French and Spanish. Users can select their preferred language through the system's screen.

In addition to language support, the system offers supplementary services, including route searches based on the subway map and real-time information on storage lockers and luggage storage facilities.

Installed at the touristy Myeong-dong Station on Monday, the transparent display unit will undergo a four-month trial. Future plans include introducing the kiosk to five additional stations, namely Seoul Station, Itaewon Station, Gimpo Airport Station, Gwanghwamun Station, and Hongik University Station.

"We are exploring ways to integrate with mobile devices in the future to improve convenience for our international visitors further," Seoul Metro CEO Baek-ho said.

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