Dongjak-gu breaks ground on long-awaited elevator at Isu Station Exit 9

Seoul's Dongjak-gu said Friday that construction has officially begun on a project to restore the elevator at Exit 9 of Isu Station on subway Line 7, fulfilling a long-standing request from local residents.

The project focuses on fully replacing the aging lift equipment while strengthening safety and improving convenience for users.

Work is targeted for completion by the end of this year, and if construction proceeds smoothly, the elevator could resume operation as early as late December.

Once back in service, the facility is expected to significantly ease commuter flow during rush hours and improve station access for people with mobility difficulties.

"The prolonged suspension caused considerable inconvenience for residents, which makes this ground-breaking all the more meaningful," Dongjak-gu Mayor Park Il-ha said. "We will do everything we can to ensure the project moves forward without delay, so that residents can use the elevator safely and conveniently."

The elevator had been out of service since August 2018, when responsibility for its management became disputed among the parties involved. Negotiations between Kyobo Asset Trust, Seoul Metro and other managing entities over maintenance obligations and ownership transfer stalled for years, causing the prolonged delay.