Busan Metro invites public to AI image contest on future of city transit

Busan Transportation Corporation announced Tuesday it is holding the 2026 Busan Transportation Corporation AI Image Contest.

The contest is open to anyone — customers and residents alike — who uses the Busan urban rail network. Participants submit original images created with generative AI tools on one of three themes: a vision of Busan Transportation Corporation's future as imagined by citizens, the urban rail system set against Busan's landmarks, and creative use of the corporation's new characters — Burai and Tavio — as symbols of community engagement.

Entries must be submitted by email to aibtc@humetro.busan.kr by Sept. 13, along with a completed application form. Image files must be in PNG, JPG or JPEG format.

A panel will evaluate submissions on creativity, relevance, innovation and effectiveness, supplemented by a public preference survey. Four winners will be selected: one grand prize, one excellence prize and two encouragement prizes. The grand prize winner receives 300,000 won ($217) in Onuri gift certificates, the excellence prize winner receives 100,000 won in Onuri gift certificates, and each encouragement prize winner receives 50,000 won worth of Busan Transportation Corporation merchandise.

Results will be announced Sept. 29 on the corporation's website at www.humetro.busan.kr. Winning works will be used in the corporation's promotional materials, campaigns and events.