Yes, that’s right according to the Korea Times in 2008 there will be women only subway cars. I wonder if this is a direct reaction to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) listing Korea as a “danger country” for women? If it is then wow, they sure acted fast. If not, well then it doesn’t matter because at least something is being done. Although I’m not sure how effective women only subway cars will be, but it’s a step in the right direction.
Funny enough this isn’t the first time the city as tried women only cars:
“Seoul’s subway system first introduced the women-only cars in 1992, but the
system was immediately suspended after undergoing some operational problems,” an official at the Seoul Metro said.”This time, two cars of each subway train on
all the lines will be designated exclusively for women. There might be some side
effects, but the advantages of the cars in terms of crime prevention will
surpass the disadvantages. We will work to reduce the negative effects,” said
the official.
I hope they worked the kinks out of the system. Otherwise, those cars might be going off line again before they do anyone any good.
I can see how women only subway cars can offer women some piece of mind. If those cars fill up, what do the other women do who can’t squeeze on? Do they have to wait for the next woman only subway car? I’m thinking it might be best to bring on police to patrol the subway cars more frequently. Another option would be to arm women with free pepper spray and tasers. It would be easy for them to collect a taser and spray when they purchase their subway ticket. Then when they reach their destination they can return them while exiting the station.
Something has to be done. It’s good to know that the powers that be are on the job and trying to do something.
