KRRI Expands Railway Test Track to Power Global Rail Innovation

Since 2019, the Railway Test Track has been operating safely, which facilitates innovation and export growth due to KRRI’s expertise in providing testing for next-generation railways and sustainable transport systems.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

KRRI’s Railway Test Track Drives Korea’s Global Competitiveness

KRRI verified that the plant has exceeded 20,000 operating hours by October 2025. Demand is high, with over 70 percent of testing capacity booked until 2027. Such performance is evident because it is renowned worldwide for its quality and dependability.

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Engineers engage in complex programs such as the Korean Train Control System (KTCS-3), which is modeled on Europe’s ETCS Level 3 standard, autonomous train control, hydrogen fuel cells, and 5G communication. Due to these programs involving both safety and innovation, this site enhances Korea’s position in railway research globally.

Improvements to New Railway Test Track Enhance Technology and Exports

The KRRI conducts critical type testing for Seoul Subway Line 4, EMU-150, and GTX-A trains, and it continues testing for Line 5 and special trains. The institution is also aiding local manufacturers in preparing for export bids.

Working with a public and private consortium, KRRI assisted in securing a $36 million test facility construction contract in 2020 for Singapore. KRRI’s other projects include working with Hyundai Rotem on exporting double-deck EMUs worth $655 million to Australia and light rail systems worth $264 million for Singapore. Future endeavors include testing for Los Angeles Metro above $650 million.

The KRRI in 2023 improved the line by adding a 4.2km DC 750V third rail route along with other routes operating with AC 25 kV and DC 1500V. The institute will increase the third rail route to 9.2km and increase the DC 1500V route by 2026 such that all standard voltages employed globally are tested.

To improve safety and facilitate convenience, KRRI will invest in a new inspection depot with a stabling track. Also, it will integrate Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation technologies (AX-DX) to optimize operations, decrease maintenance time, and build smarter testing processes.

KRRI’s President, Sa Kong-myoung, expressed: “The Railway Test Track is one such strategic infrastructure that will undoubtedly play a role in forming the future for the railway sector. We will, of course, continue with providing companies with efficient means to verify new technologies so that they can compete in the global market.”

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