Gangneung Station KTX Transforms into East Coast Rail Hub with Donghae Line Connection and Complex Transfer Center Development

Gangneung Station is transforming into a major East Coast rail hub through the connection of the KTX Donghae Line and the development of a complex transfer center. While the station primarily served as a gateway connecting the Seoul Metropolitan Area and Gangwon Yeongdong region since the KTX Gangneung Line opened in 2017, it now features a north-south rail axis extending to Pohang and Busan with the operation of KTX-Eum on the Donghae Line. This change positions Gangneung not merely as a terminal station but as a hub connecting key cities along the East Coast.

Starting from late December 2025, KTX-Eum services on the Gangneung-Bujeon section have reduced travel time from approximately 5 hours with the previous ITX-Maum to 3 hours and 54 minutes. Additionally, Gangneung City is pursuing the development of a futuristic complex transfer center and station area around Gangneung Station. This comprehensive development project aims to link various transportation modes, including KTX, buses, taxis, and autonomous vehicles, while integrating commercial, cultural, residential, and lodging functions into the surrounding railway land.

Local bloggers anticipate that these changes at Gangneung Station will extend beyond mere train service increases, forming a crucial development axis that encompasses railway network expansion, enhanced transfer capabilities, station area development, and revitalization of the old city center. They particularly highlight the positive outlook that the Donghae Line connection will improve accessibility to Gangneung for tourists from both the Seoul Metropolitan Area and the Yeongnam region, and facilitate easier travel from Gangneung to southern areas, thereby broadening the tourism lifestyle sphere.