Korail and Seoul subway tighten lithium-battery rules from July 1

Korail will block lithium-battery personal mobility (PM) devices, e-bikes, and batteries over 160Wh from trains from July 1, 2026. Seoul subway is applying the same basic restriction.

What Changes

Korail says lithium-battery powered personal mobility (PM) devices, including electric kickboards and e-bikes, are restricted from July 1.

It also restricts portable large-capacity lithium batteries over 160Wh. Korail says normal daily devices such as phones, laptops, and smaller power banks are not the target. Electric wheelchairs and medical scooters are listed as exceptions.

For metro-style rail, the rule is even stricter: Korail says those devices are barred not only from trains but also from entering stations on metropolitan rail, including the Donghae Line.

That matters in Busan. The Donghae Line is a useful shortcut for east-side rides toward Gijang and Ulsan.

Practical Impact

Normal acoustic bikes still sit under the usual bicycle carriage rules.

E-bikes, e-scooters, electric wheels, and large spare batteries are now a separate problem. Treat battery rules and bicycle rules as two different checks.

For mixed train-and-ride days, the boring setup wins again: non-powered bike, folding bike if possible, and no large loose battery.