CONVENTIONAL bus stops on Seoul's main streets will have futuristic features, such as free Wi-Fi, mobile phone chargers and air purifiers, starting later this year.
City authorities said it will begin test operations of the futuristic bus stops, dubbed "Smart Shelters," at 10 locations in October before expanding the new features to all bus stops located on exclusive bus lanes throughout the capital next year.
Seoul has exclusive bus lanes in the centre of roads or at roadsides.
Yonhap news agency reports that the city will first install the ICT-based bus stops at all those located in the middle of roads before considering expanding to all roadside bus stops after a review of the initial operations.
According to the city authorities, the Smart Shelters will be equipped with things that are most wanted by commuters waiting for buses, such as wireless mobile phone chargers, heated chairs and free Wi-Fi.
In addition, ceiling-type air cleaners, indoor and outdoor air quality monitors, air curtains blocking the inflow of outdoor air, systems that provide fine dust information, and screen doors will be installed at the bus stops to help keep the air clean.
The smart shelters will also have surveillance cameras, an emergency bell and a heart defibrillator in case of emergencies, city officials said, adding "Internet of Things" sensors will inform passengers of the exact arrivals of incoming buses.
They said such bus stops featuring diversified functions and services are unprecedented worldwide.
The Seoul government said it will finalise the design of the Smart Shelters after inviting citizens to vote online on three candidates at its website until June 24.