Seoul Metropolitan Area

The Seoul Metropolitan Area, home to approximately 25 million people, has made significant strides in accessibility. Since hosting the 1988 Paralympics, the region has implemented various improvements. However, challenges remain, particularly in older areas and smaller establishments.

South Korea's Disability Discrimination Act of 2008 mandates equal access in public spaces. Seoul follows the national building code requiring accessibility features in new constructions. As of 2021, 100% of subway stations in Seoul have elevators, and 94.4% of public buses are low-floor accessible.

Seoul's public transportation system is largely accessible. The subway has braille signage, gap fillers, and elevators at all stations. Low-floor buses comprise 94.4% of the fleet. Wheelchair-accessible taxis are available but limited; as of 2020, there were 500 such taxis in Seoul.

Many major attractions in Seoul are wheelchair accessible, including Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, and Lotte World. The Seoul City Tour Bus offers accessible tours. However, some historical sites may have limited accessibility due to preservation concerns. It's advisable to check specific accessibility features before visiting.

Large international hotel chains in Seoul typically offer accessible rooms. As of 2021, there's no comprehensive database of accessible accommodations in the area. Visitors are advised to contact hotels directly to inquire about specific accessibility features. Some local guesthouses (hanok) may have limited accessibility due to traditional architecture.

Use the Seoul Metropolitan Government's accessibility map (available online) to plan routes. Learn key phrases in Korean related to accessibility needs. Be prepared for occasional inaccessible areas, particularly in older neighborhoods. Consider renting mobility equipment if needed; several companies in Seoul offer this service.