Suin Line (1937–1995)

The Suin Line was a narrow-gauge railway line in South Korea that operated between 1937 and 1995. It connected Suwon to Incheon, primarily serving the needs of salt farms and fisheries along the coast. Construction began during the Japanese colonial period, with the initial section opening in 1937. Its primary purpose was to transport salt produced in the Incheon area to the rest of Korea and Japan.

Throughout its existence, the Suin Line played a vital role in the local economy, carrying not only salt but also passengers and other goods. The passenger service was particularly popular, offering a relatively inexpensive means of transportation between the two cities and the various villages in between. The line used a distinctive 762mm narrow gauge, which set it apart from most other railway lines in Korea.

Over time, the Suin Line faced increasing competition from road transport, and its economic importance gradually declined. The line suffered from aging infrastructure and a lack of investment. Passenger services were discontinued in 1995, and the remaining freight services were also phased out shortly after, leading to the complete closure of the original narrow-gauge Suin Line.

In the 21st century, a new standard-gauge Suin Line was constructed, following a similar route but with significant upgrades and modern infrastructure. This new line is part of the Seoul Metropolitan Subway system and provides a faster and more efficient connection between Suwon and Incheon, a testament to the ongoing demand for rail transport in the region despite the demise of its narrow-gauge predecessor. The original Suin Line is remembered as a unique piece of Korean railway history.