Starting July 1, 2025, Ulsan City will launch the "Ulsan U-Pass," a tailored public transportation fare refund program designed to ease the financial burden on its residents. This initiative builds upon the national "K-Pass" system by adding unique benefits specific to Ulsan, aiming to create a more convenient and affordable transportation network for all citizens.
The K-Pass, operated by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's Greater City-Region Transportation Committee since May 2024, provides a partial refund on public transportation fares for users who take 15 or more rides per month. Refund rates under the K-Pass vary: general adults receive 20%, youths aged 19 to 34 get 30%, basic livelihood recipients and quasi-lower income groups receive 53%, and multi-child households receive 30% for two children and 50% for three or more.
Ulsan’s U-Pass program expands these benefits significantly. It widens the scope of eligible transportation modes to include not only city buses but also express buses, limousines, branch and village buses, and even subways from other regions. This expansion reflects Ulsan’s commitment to breaking down transportation barriers and providing comprehensive support to its citizens.
One of the most notable differences is the removal of the refund limit imposed by the K-Pass, which capped refunds at 60 rides per month. Under Ulsan U-Pass, there is no limit on the number of times users can receive a refund, making it especially beneficial for frequent commuters.
Moreover, the program raises the youth eligibility age from 34 to 39, maintaining the 30% refund rate for this broader group. This adjustment acknowledges the evolving needs of young adults in the workforce and education sectors.
Perhaps most impactful is the increased support for vulnerable groups. Basic livelihood recipients and quasi-lower income households, who previously received a maximum refund of 53% under K-Pass, will now be eligible for a full 100% refund on their transportation costs, effectively eliminating their public transit expenses if they meet the usage criteria.
Eligibility for the U-Pass is straightforward: any Ulsan citizen aged 19 or older who uses public transportation 15 times or more in a month qualifies for the refund. Existing K-Pass subscribers will automatically receive U-Pass benefits without the need for additional applications. New users, however, must apply for a participating transportation card through the K-Pass website or the websites of various affiliated card companies, including Shinhan, Hana, Woori, Hyundai, Samsung, Lotte, KB Kookmin (including Kakao Bank), NH Nonghyup, BC Card affiliates, DGB UPay, and RailPlus.
After obtaining the transportation card, users must register as members on the K-Pass website or app to activate their refund benefits. Ulsan City plans to actively promote this process to ensure that residents do not miss out on these valuable benefits.
City officials expressed optimism about the U-Pass’s potential impact. One representative noted, “Following the free city bus services currently provided for children and the upcoming free service for seniors aged 75 and older starting this July, the Ulsan U-Pass will further reduce transportation costs and effectively guarantee mobility rights for vulnerable groups.”
They added, “We are committed to thorough promotion and preparation to ensure that all eligible citizens can maximize their benefits.” This initiative is part of Ulsan’s broader strategy to create a transportation system that not only enhances convenience but also alleviates the financial burden on its residents.
The introduction of U-Pass comes at a time when cities worldwide are seeking to improve public transit accessibility and affordability. By tailoring a national program to meet local needs, Ulsan exemplifies how municipalities can innovate within existing frameworks to better serve their populations.
For Ulsan residents, especially those in vulnerable economic positions or young adults navigating the challenges of early career and education, the U-Pass promises a tangible reduction in monthly expenses and improved access to the city’s transportation network. It also signals a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that no one is left behind due to cost barriers.
As the program rolls out, the city’s efforts to raise awareness and facilitate easy enrollment will be crucial. The combination of expanded eligibility, increased refund rates, and unlimited refund opportunities positions Ulsan’s U-Pass as a pioneering model in public transportation fare support.
With these measures, Ulsan not only supports its citizens’ mobility but also strengthens the social fabric by making daily commutes more affordable and accessible for all.
