Seoul Subway Introduces Real-time Interpretation System
A real-time interpretation system capable of interpreting 13 languages using AI technology has been installed at the Customer Support Center of Myeong-dong Station (Seoul Subway Line 4).
The system works by connecting a mic to a see-through touch screen that displays the words spoken and translates them depending on which language the tourist selects. After the tourist asks a question in their own language, their question is translated into Korean and appears on the monitor for the Korean station worker to see and respond to. Now travelers can quickly and easily get answers to all their subway questions, including finding subway routes, the fastest transfer points, and anything else about the subway station. The touch-screen can also be used to look up information on T-locker and T-luggage, storage systems in place for travelers.
The system is available in Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Malay, Indonesian, Spanish, French, German, Arabic, and Russian (13 languages total). While the system is currently in the testing stage, more machines are planned to be installed at 10 major subway stations, including Jongno 5(oh)-ga Station on Line 1; City Hall Station, Hongik Univ. Station, Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station, and Gangnam Station on Line 2; Gyeongbokgung Station on Line 3; Gwanghwamun Station, and Gimpo Airport Station on Line 5; and Itaewon Station and Gongdeok Station on Line 6.