Redesign of the Seoul Metro map for the first time in 40 years -

Easy-to-read redesign of the Seoul Metro map (final design to be announced in Dec. 2023)

[Download the Seoul Metro map (ENG)]

The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) announced the all-new redesigned Seoul Metro map for the first time in 40 years. Although the city’s subway lines have increased from 4 lines and 106 stations in the 1980s to 9 lines and 338 stations in the 2000s and now 23 lines and 624 stations in 2023, the map of the metro lines has been maintained since the 1980s by simply adding new lines and various other additions, making the map more difficult to read.

Moreover, the existing map makes understanding the location of lines difficult (each map having different linear shapes) and doesn’t contain adequate markings for distinguishing regular stations from transfer stations. Geographical information, such as the locations of Incheon Airport, the Hangang River and the Yellow Sea, is also lacking, and the absence of station number markings makes comprehension difficult.

As a result, the city consulted with specialists to determine a color scheme and visual design that would make it easy for anyone to read, presenting an all-new redesign of the Seoul Metro map.

The redesigned map comprises four major changes: the international “octolinear” standard for easier recognition of numerous lines and transfer stations; “traffic light” transfer station patterns for better visual recognition; geographical denotation for locational information; and varying colors and patterns to easily distinguish between different lines.

1. “Octolinear” schematic map and round diagram for Line 2
Emphasis is placed on the application of the international “octolinear” standard and a round shape for the Line 2 loop. With improvements made in consideration of geographical information related to each line, users can easily and efficiently find routes.

The redesigned map is easier to read with the international “octolinear” schematic diagram design.

2. “Traffic light” markings for transfer stations
Transfer stations which were marked with the taegeuk symbol are now distinguished from regular stations with “traffic light” markings. Users can easily follow the path they need for their transfer according to the arrangement of connected colors at the transfer station.

Thew redesigned map is easier to read with “traffic light” markings for transfer stations.

3. Location markings to easily understand geographic information
The city has also

marked major geographic information on the improved map in the city and outskirts, such as Incheon Airport, the Hangang River and the Yellow Sea

, enabling tourists to easily ascertain their current location. Landmark icons will also adorn the improved map next year to promote Seoul’s many attractions.

The redesigned map features location markings to easily understand geographical information.

4. Varying colors and patterns to easily distinguish between lines
The city has applied new colors and patterns to the lines in consideration of the elderly, the visually impaired, and the colorblind. Improvements have also been made in consideration of international users, displaying the station number along with the line number instead of just the station number, increasing ease in finding the correct station.

The redesigned map features both metro line and station numbers for international tourists.

The improved design underwent eye-tracking experiments among Korean citizens in their 20s and 30s and international visitors, where results showed a reduction of around 55% in the amount of time to locate a station, and around a 69% reduction in the amount of time to locate a transfer station. In particular, the amount of time it took international participants to locate a station was 21.5% better than that of Korean citizens, demonstrating that the improved map will be very useful for first-time visitors to Seoul.

Participants said, “the shape of the Line 2 loop is easy on the eyes and nicely separates the other lines, creating a good point of reference when looking for a certain station. The boundary markers within areas also made it easy to find the way.”

Furthermore,

1:1 and 16:9 aspect ratios will be developed

to increase utility suitable for various digital environments including online, digital information displays (DID), and mobile phones, an upgrade from the existing map without design ratios appropriate for different media that makes it difficult to view.

The city also announced various promotions in support of the branding of the redesigned map.

Examples of merchandise utilizing features of the redesigned metro map