1914
112 years ago
OpeningKR
Seoul-Busan Line Fully Operational
Chosen Government Railway
Seoul
July 1, 1914
Summary
Korea’s first major railway line between Seoul and Busan opens under Japanese colonial administration.
Full Story
On July 1, 1914, the Seoul-Busan railway line was completed, spanning 445 km with steam locomotives hauling passengers and freight across varied Korean terrain. Built amid colonial infrastructure projects, it overcame mountainous sections using tunnels and bridges engineered by Japanese firms. This artery boosted economic integration but also symbolized imperial control. It remains a vital corridor today as part of Korea’s high-speed network, illustrating rail’s enduring role in national development.
Continue Reading
Members get access to extended stories, related events, source documents, and historical context.
Quick Facts
- Date
- July 1, 1914
- Event Type
- Opening
- Country
- KR
- Years Ago
- 112
Explore More History
RailScanPro members get access to our complete archive of railroad history with advanced search, filtering, and thousands of events.
Subscribe Now