In the future, conscripts entering the Nonsan Army Recruit Training Center and their families will be able to take the KTX and travel directly to near the training center in one trip.
On the 24th, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport said it finalized and announced the master plan for the "Honam Line High-Speed (Gusuwon–Nonsan) Construction Project," which includes straightening the section between Gusuwon Station and Nonsan Station on the Honam Line. The plan also includes building a new "Sinyeonmudae Station" in front of the training center.
The project focuses on straightening parts of the Honam Line, built during the Japanese colonial period, where the alignment is curved. By upgrading the existing line from Daejeon's Gusuwon Station to Nonsan Station, the maximum train speed will be raised to 250 kph. The total project cost is about 920 billion won.
After basic and detailed design, construction will begin in 2029. The target opening is 2034.
Once completed, the project is expected to greatly improve travel convenience for conscripts entering the Nonsan training center and visitors. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) also expects it will partially ease the traffic congestion that has occurred as vehicles crowd roads near the training center.
Straightening the route will also shorten train travel times. The trip from Seodaejeon to Iksan will be cut by about 14 minutes. Travel times on Seodaejeon–Jeonju, Seodaejeon–Gwangju Songjeong, and Seodaejeon–Mokpo sections are also expected to be reduced by more than 10 minutes each.
MOLIT plans to enhance rail safety through this project as well. By improving sharp curves built in 1914 and level crossings, it aims to reduce the risk of accidents and improve ride comfort.
Yun Jin-hwan of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's Railroad Bureau said, "Honam Line high-speed improvements will enhance rail travel convenience while also contributing to revitalizing local economies, including Seodaejeon," adding, "We will push the project forward without a hitch."