Kakao Mobility was selected to operate Seoul's autonomous vehicle transport platform

Seoul, South Korea - Kakao Mobility has been chosen as the private operator for the Seoul Metropolitan Government's autonomous vehicle transport platform, the company said on Wednesday.

The selection is part of Seoul's "Autonomous Driving Vision 2030" plan. 

Kakao Mobility will integrate various autonomous driving services into its Kakao T app, including demand-responsive, ride-hailing, and fixed-route services.

The demand-responsive "Autonomous DRT" service currently operates in three areas: Cheonggyecheon, Yeouido, and Sangam. 

By year-end, it will be fully integrated into the Kakao T app.

Seoul's first autonomous ride-hailing service, Seoul Autonomous Car, will launch in Gangnam district starting September 26. 

The service will operate between major subway stations on weekday nights, accommodating up to three passengers free of charge during the trial period.

Kakao Mobility has developed its autonomous driving control and remote operation system, leveraging big data analysis capabilities from Kakao T and Kakao Navigation services.