Starting July 1, large-capacity lithium batteries and personal mobility devices (PM) powered by lithium batteries will not be allowed on Seoul subways.
Seoul Metro said on the 25th that it revised its passenger transportation terms and conditions to preemptively block fire hazards in the subway and ensure passenger safety.
Beginning next month, any vehicle powered by lithium batteries—including electric bicycles, e-scooters, and electric unicycles—and large-capacity lithium batteries exceeding 160Wh will be banned from being brought into stations. However, mobility devices ensuring the right to movement for transportation-vulnerable passengers, such as powered wheelchairs, are exempt.
Seoul Metro explained, "Most electronic devices that citizens use daily—such as smartphones, tablet PCs, laptops, and typical portable power banks—are 160Wh or less and are not subject to this restriction."
Fires involving large-capacity lithium batteries have occurred repeatedly. In September last year at Hapjeong Station, smoke came from a battery for an electric scooter brought in by a passenger, and Line 2 and Line 6 trains passed without stopping. This year there have also been four incidents, including smoke from a portable power bank carried by a passenger.
Unlike ordinary fires, lithium battery fires are difficult to extinguish in the initial stage due to internal thermal runaway and have a high risk of re-ignition. They are also banned from airplanes and other transport.
Seoul Metro plans to inform the public of the changes through notices and its website until the policy takes effect, while also conducting on-site guidance.
Kim Tae-gyun, president of Seoul Metro, said, "As this measure is a preventive safety step to create a safer subway environment, we ask for understanding and cooperation with the implementation."