A train operator taking a short restroom break caused delays for 125 trains in Seoul earlier this week, affecting hundreds of passengers during the busy morning commute.
The incident happened on Line 2 at around 8 a.m. The train conductor, who urgently needed to use the restroom, stopped the train at a station and went to a restroom located on a different floor of the station building. The break lasted for 4 minutes and 16 seconds, but it set off a chain reaction of delays and required the rescheduling of trains. As a result, many trains were running up to 20 minutes behind schedule.
Although the delay was unexpected, Seoul Metro handled the situation efficiently, working to minimize the inconvenience for passengers. Their quick response ensured that people were still able to reach their destinations, even though there was some disruption.
Train operators in Seoul typically work for two to three hours without taking breaks, which can make situations like this challenging. While portable toilets are available at some locations, there are times when staff need to access restrooms that are not located near the platforms. This highlights the difficulties operators face when balancing their responsibilities with basic personal needs. Despite the disruption, Seoul Metro’s efforts helped limit the overall impact on commuters.
