July 1 saw a taxi fares hike across Jeju Island and intercity bus services are about to see the same.

According to officials, discussions of fare increases will take place early next month when the Transportation Improvement Committee meets.

The fare increase will result in rises of between 16.6 percent and 33.3 percent. The rate of increase will depend on distance traveled according to a five stage system.

The first stage of less than 20 k.m. will increase 1000 won to 1300 won. For journeys over 25 k.m. fares will increase by 500 won with the longest journeys of more than 40 k.m. rising from 3000 won to 3500 won.

The airport limousine bus will increase its fare on average by 25 percent, with the longest route between the airport and Seogwipo Kal Hotel (62 k.m.) rising by 39 percent, from 5000 won to 7200 won.

Since the staged pricing system was introduced in 2007, which saw a 17.3 percent reduction in bus fares, there have not been any increases to date. As Jeju’s fares are the lowest in the nation, a rise is inevitable, say transport officials.

Every two years the National Transportation Department provides guidance on transport fares and accordingly a 25 percent increase was expected. Overall, in consideration of price inflation for other commodities, officials claim the rise is reasonable.

“In accordance with rises of workers’ wages, a rise in intercity bus fares is unavoidable,” said a Jeju official.

Mun Gyeong-jin, of the Transport and Air Division, said: “Up to now, bus fares have been kept as low as possible, but considering the price of oil and workers’ wages, [the price increase] cannot be ignored. We will ensure that the increase is comprehensive and considered and reasonable.”