The KTX-Eum (Korean: KTX-이음, formerly known as EMU-260) or Korail Class 150000 is a South Korean high-speedelectric multiple unit train manufactured by Hyundai Rotem and operated by Korail. The word 'eum' in Korean means 'uniting through connection'. This name was selected by members of the public, and expresses the desire to connect regions, people, and happiness through trains.[1]
History
After the development of the prototype HEMU-430X train, Hyundai-Rotem and Korail signed an agreement in June 2016 to supply high-speed electric multiple units, the first of its kind in South Korea in commercial service (the HEMU-430X is also an electric multiple unit, but it is not for service and mass production). The original order was for five six-car units,[2] but an additional order for 14 six-car units was placed in December 2016; both orders were scheduled for delivery from 2020 to 2021.[3][4]
In September 2016, Korail held a public contest for the design of the new models.[5] In 2017, a mockup of the chosen design was exhibited to the public to promote the train and receive feedback.[6] On November 4, 2019, the first set was delivered to Korail.[7][8]
In August 2020, Korail held a public competition for the name of the new model, which at the time was known as the EMU-260.[9] The model was officially renamed "KTX-Eum" (KTX-이음) in October 2020, after Korail filed patent trademark with the Korean Intellectual Property Office.[10]
On January 4, 2021, the train entered service on Jungang Line operating between the electrified section of Cheongnyangni and Andong.[11]
On July 13, 2021, Korail announced the train will be introduced on Gangneung Line from August 1, replacing KTX-Sancheon which would be redeployed to other KTX lines.[12][13]
Design
Technology incorporated in these trains is derived from the experimental HEMU-430X train previously tested by Korail. The KTX-Eum will feature the same design as EMU-320 trains, but the formation will consist of six cars as opposed to eight cars.[5] Unlike KTX trains, the KTX-Eum uses distributed traction with driving trailers at each end and six powered intermediate cars as opposed to a traction head configuration.[4][14]
In June 2024, South Korea and Uzbekistan concluded a KRW 270 billion (approximately US$196 million) deal to apply KTX technology in Uzbekistan by supplying 6 sets of high-speed trains and Korail expertise. The high-speed trains, UTY EMU-250, is a variant of the KTX-Eum and will have 7 cars in each set.[15][16][17]
^ abcdCompany, Hyundai Rotem (November 8, 2017). "시속 421km로 달리다! 동력분산식 고속차량 '해무' HEMU-430X" [Running at 421 kilometers per hour! Distributed Power High Speed Vehicle 'Marine' HEMU-430X]. Hyundai Rotem Blog (in Korean). Archived from the original on November 4, 2019. Retrieved November 4, 2019. {{cite web}}: |last1= has generic name (help)
^Park Sae-yan (July 13, 2021). "8월 1일부로 경전선 KTX 증편, 수서행 KTX 운행 가능해" [From August 1st, the Gyeongjeon Line KTX service will be increased, and the KTX service bound for Suseo will be available.]. Naver (in Korean). Asia Economy. Archived from the original on July 26, 2021. Retrieved July 26, 2021.
^Park Jang-sik (July 13, 2021). "무궁화호 '최후 야간열차' 폐지...강릉 가는 길은 더 쾌적" [Abolition of Mugunghwa's 'Last Night Train' ... The road to Gangneung is more pleasant]. Naver (in Korean). OhmyNews. Archived from the original on July 26, 2021. Retrieved July 26, 2021.
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