Byun Chang-heum, “Pay it with a card…”

Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Byun Chang-heum attending the government question (Seoul = Yonhap News)

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Minister Byeon appeared for the first time after taking office in the field of economics to question the government held at the main assembly hall of the National Assembly. Rep. Kim Hee-guk, a member of the National Assembly’s National Land Transport Committee, called Minister Byeon as the answer as the first hitter on this afternoon.

Rep. Kim asked, “The Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport is in charge of not only housing, but also roads and railroads and airports. Have you ever taken a subway, bus, or taxi?” Minister Byeon replied, “Yes.”

When Rep. Kim asked again, “What is the basic fare for a taxi, for the bus,” Secretary Byeon was speechless. He hesitated for a moment, “Because I play with cards… “”, and laughter burst out in the hall.

When Rep. Kim inquired, “Doesn’t the card pay the fee?” Minister Byeon said, “I do not check the rate. Usually around 1,200 won… “I replied.

Then, Congressman Kim pointed out, “The basic fare for (taxi) is 3800 won.” Next, Congressman Kim asked, “Do you know the basic subway fare?”, but Minister Byeon could not answer.

Rep. Kim gave Finnzan, saying, “Can the Minister in charge of transportation policy be able to properly perform the post of minister without knowing the basic public transportation fee?”

The basic fare for a medium-sized taxi varies by region and is 3800 won in Seoul. The basic fare for city buses in Seoul is 1,200 won and 1,300 won in cash when paid with a transportation card. Minister Byeon is a housing policy expert who served as president of Seoul Housing and Urban Corporation and president of Korea Land and Housing Corporation.

Reporters Hae-Yong Hae and Soo-Hyun Nam [email protected]



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