On 23 May 2013, KORAIL announced that Buncheon Station, one of KORAIL’s key stations for the recently launched train tour package programmes, set up a sisterhood relationship with Switzerland’s Zermatt Station – well-known for its Glacier Express – to promote mutual collaboration.

Mr CHUNG, Chang-Young, CEO of KORAIL, warmly welcomed high-level representatives and guests of both countries including Switzerland’s Ambassador to Korea Mr Jorg Alois Reding at the ceremony, and emphasised the role and contribution of railways to the revitalisation of the regional economy and tourism.

KORAIL recently initiated two new ambitious train tour programmes, which are intended to give passengers a chance to re-explore scenic rural regions including numerous stunning valleys and beautiful rivers.

Whilst the Circle Line Train – named the O-Train – circles a five-hour 257-kilometre course with stops at 14 stations along green forests and crystal clear streams, the V-Train (Valley Line Train) featuring 21st century technology in the shape of solar panels and generating five kilowatts a day to power the lights and doors, operates at an average speed of just 30 kilometres per hour, occasionally stopping at the most scenic spots of the Korean peninsula mountain spine.

KORAIL is planning to provide more specialised programmes this year, and is hoping to share similar experiences with the members of UIC and develop mutually beneficial cooperation with the members in future.