Ulsan’s Bus Information System (BIS) expansion project has been completed ahead of 2025, significantly improving convenience for citizens using public transportation. The project focused especially on areas with large senior populations who may find smartphones or mobile apps difficult to use, thereby enhancing accessibility to real-time transportation information. Through this BIS expansion, the city aims to raise the quality of transportation services and establish a more sustainable mobility environment.
 New Shelter-Type Bus Information Terminals (BIT) Installed in 2025 © The Korean Today / So-young Jeong |
This year, Ulsan invested a total of 1 billion KRW to install new bus information displays at 60 bus stops. These upgraded displays offer real-time bus location data, route searches, weather updates, and news briefings, providing noticeable improvements in user experience. The city also replaced 70 outdated displays at major stops with advanced image-based models equipped with enhanced visibility and functionality. Additionally, new English translation features allow foreign visitors to access bus information more easily, strengthening the city’s global accessibility. Ulsan emphasized that this BIS expansion aims to improve both the accuracy and clarity of transit information, ultimately increasing overall public satisfaction.
 Installation of Solar-Powered Independent BIT Units © The Korean Today / So-young Jeong |
A major highlight of the project is the pilot installation of solar-powered bus information displays. Ulsan equipped 14 bus stops with limited power supply infrastructure with solar-powered units, reducing both installation costs and electricity fees. The initiative also achieved substantial environmental benefits, cutting annual carbon emissions by 1,935 kg—equivalent to planting approximately 293 pine trees.
This eco-friendly approach aligns with Ulsan’s vision for a smart, green city and demonstrates meaningful progress in integrating sustainable technology within the public transportation sector. Carbon-reduction metrics were assessed in reference to national guidelines from the Korea Energy Agency.
A city official stated that Ulsan plans to continue expanding the Bus Information System to further improve public transport accessibility. As the host city of the International Garden Expo, building an eco-friendly mobility environment is considered a key priority. The official added that improving transit accessibility not only enhances the city’s competitiveness but also supports inclusive mobility rights for residents and visitors.
Currently, about 1,790 of Ulsan’s 3,400 bus stops are equipped with BIS displays, and the recent expansion will further strengthen the city’s information infrastructure. Ulsan will continue maintaining and upgrading the system while reviewing additional installation sites, incorporating citizen feedback into future transport policies.
The city’s BIS expansion has achieved three key goals—improved accessibility, the application of clean energy technologies, and user-oriented system enhancements—earning recognition as a major milestone in the innovation of Ulsan’s public transportation network.
BY Jeong So-young: ulsangangbuk@thekoreantoday.com
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