Seoul City has announced major policy expansions for the second half of 2025, with new initiatives targeting youth mobility, family benefits, SME support, public safety, and cultural engagement.
Expanded Discounts for Climate Companion Card
Previously limited to youth aged 19–39, the Climate Companion Card discount (up to 7,000 KRW) will now also apply to multi-child parents, low-income families, and teens aged 13–18. This applies to the 30-day pass only and requires annual verification through the T-money Pay website.
New SME Support Measures to Boost Export Competitiveness
In response to expected U.S. tariff pressure, Seoul will offer consulting and vouchers under the ‘Support for Companies Exporting to the U.S.’ program. Other initiatives include diversification support for exports to regions such as Latin America, Southeast Asia, and CIS nations, and expanded business loans totaling 100 billion KRW for export-related SMEs.
Family-Friendly Benefits Expanded
Seoul will introduce a new “family pass” for the city bike-sharing system, allowing children under 13 to ride with a guardian. Families with triplets or more will also receive congratulatory household supply kits within a month of application.
Han River Ferry and Infrastructure Improvements
Following trial runs in summer, the Han River ferry will officially begin operations in September with two routes and convenient access from nearby subway and bus stations. A new ferry terminal in Yeouido and six new waterfront activity zones across the city will also open by late 2025.
New Tunnel Safety Designs and PM Regulations
Seoul will roll out enhanced tunnel safety lighting and signage using high-visibility colors and beacon lighting, beginning with three pilot tunnels. “No-kickboard zones” will expand in areas like Hongdae and Banpo, and mobile PM safety education will target middle and high schools.
Centralized Planning and Art Portals Launched
The city will launch the “Seoul Plan+” platform by late July, consolidating redevelopment and urban planning information. An AI-powered art portal, “SPAC,” will also open, offering curated recommendations and searchable content about artists, spaces, and reviews.
Public Spaces and Cultural Access Expanded
The Yeouido Ferry Terminal and six new riverside leisure areas will boost public access to water-based recreation. Undervalued public facilities like Mapo Oil Reserve Base will reopen as interactive culture hubs, and subway-run exercise spaces such as Run Base and Smart Move Station will grow in number.
Lifelong Learning Centers to Open
New campuses of the Youth Job Training School will launch in five more districts, completing the citywide network of 25. A dance-specialized Seoul Culture and Arts Education Center will open in Eunpyeong, and three additional Digital Inclusion Plazas will support senior citizens in Dongdaemun, Dobong, and Gangdong.
Major Tech and Art Events Scheduled
The Smart Life Week (SLW) will return September 30–October 2 at COEX, featuring AI and robotics events. SLW will debut the “Seoul AI Robot Show,” with demos, contests, and networking. Cultural events like Seoul Autumn Festa and the Seoul Light Han River festival will offer exhibitions and performances citywide.
Full program details will be available on the Seoul City website and Open Information Plaza from July 1 under the “2025 Second Half – Changes in Seoul Life” guide.
