Light rail system in bustling cities of South Korea

On behalf of the South Korean Railroad Research Institute (KRRI), ZJA Architects, SIDstudio, and Iv have completed a design study for an innovative Elevated Light Rail Track (ELRT) system for highly urbanised areas in South Korea. This light rail system offers a sustainable solution to increasing traffic congestion. The aim was to create a technically and aesthetically high-quality transport system that can be applied in all South Korean cities. With specific expertise in steel railway bridges, Iv took on a supporting role to the architect and structural engineer SIDstudio.

The design and construction of the ELRT system presented several challenges. An underground rail link proved too expensive, so an elevated double track was chosen. To maintain the quality of life in the area, the track was placed 15 metres above ground level with supports spaced 200 metres apart. A hybrid structure was chosen to achieve the 200-metre span without the structure bending under its own weight. This hybrid structure included a complex composition of crossed-placed steel trusses, a network of outriggers and pre-stressed cables, collectively providing stiffness and stability while keeping the structure light and transparent.

Wind pressure was also a specific challenge in this project. Following the wind tunnel investigation, we conducted a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis to determine the effect of dense development on wind pressure on the bridge. This contributed to designing and constructing a stable and safe bridge for the light rail system. Combining this technical complexity with the need to build the structure quickly and efficiently without compromising the environment’s quality of life or aesthetics made the design particularly challenging.

The completed design study of the ELRT system has great potential for the urban environment and public transport in South Korea. The elevated light rail track offers a sustainable solution for the future mobility needs of urbanised areas. The slender and light structure ensures the environment remains visually attractive and provides space for greenery and pedestrians. The system can reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality and offer a clean and safe mode of transport for the future.