Korail to ban high-capacity batteries

Starting July 1, Korail will bar high-capacity lithium batteries on all trains and metropolitan subway lines over passenger safety concerns.

KIM MIN-YOUNG KIM MIN-YOUNG

Published June 23, 2026 - 5:46 p.m.

Travel restriction notices about large lithium batteries stand at a Busan Station ticket counter.

A notice informing passengers of new restrictions on carrying high-capacity lithium batteries aboard trains beginning July 1 is displayed at the concourse of Busan Station in Dong District, Busan, on June 23. Korail will prohibit the carriage of high-capacity lithium batteries on all trains, including KTX, ITX-Saemaeul and Mugunghwa services, as well as metropolitan subway lines, citing passenger safety concerns.

YONHAP

A notice informing passengers of new restrictions on carrying high-capacity lithium batteries aboard trains beginning July 1 is displayed at the concourse of Busan Station in Dong District, Busan, on June 23. Korail will prohibit the carriage of high-capacity lithium batteries on all trains, including KTX, ITX-Saemaeul and Mugunghwa services, as well as metropolitan subway lines, citing passenger safety concerns.