Is it possible that the Namsan 1st Tunnel has a story to tell beyond just being a passageway? This tunnel, more than just concrete and asphalt, has silently witnessed Seoul’s transformation. It is a crucial artery connecting different parts of the city.
Let’s delve into the story of the Namsan 1st Tunnel. It is one of the routes that has shaped Seoul’s traffic patterns for decades. Since November 11, 1996, a toll of 2,000 won was levied on vehicles entering downtown through the Namsan 1st Tunnel and Namsan Tunnel No. 3. This toll aimed to ease rush-hour congestion. The goal was to encourage drivers to use the tunnels before 7 a.m. or after 9 p.m.
From 1996 to 2021, the tunnel traffic decreased about 20 percent. It went from approximately 90,400 cars daily to 71,900. The average vehicle speed increased from 21.6 kilometers per hour to 38.2 kilometers per hour during the same period.
However, the effectiveness of the daytime tolls was questioned. There were also concerns that the toll did not reflect inflation. The city government examined the impact of the fees last year. They temporarily stopped collecting tolls for two months.
During this period, traffic congestion increased by around 5.2 percent. This happened when tolls were waived for southbound traffic in the first month. When tolls on both sides were waived, traffic congestion rose by 12.9 percent. Traffic on major roads in downtown Seoul saw speed dropping by as low as 13 percent in the second month.
Based on this experiment, the city decided to maintain the fee. They only levied it for northbound traffic entering downtown Seoul. Improved conditions on northbound roads, including the expansion of Hannam Bridge, were another factor.
Since January 15, 2024, tolls have been waived for southbound traffic exiting downtown. However, fees are still levied for those entering downtown. This is the first time in 27 years that such fees have been lifted.
The Namsan 1st Tunnel is more than just a route. It represents Seoul’s constant efforts to manage traffic. It also shows the city’s commitment to adapting to the changing needs of its residents. As you pass through this tunnel, remember that you are traveling through a piece of Seoul’s evolving history.