KTX-Cheongryong. The KTX-Cheongryong (, formerly known as EMU-320) or Korail Class 160000 is a South Korean high-speed electrical multiple unit train manufactured by Hyundai Rotem and operated by Korail.

The word '' in Korean means 'blue dragon'. This name was selected by members of the public, which signifies "a blue dragon soaring vigorously to bring hope to the people" and matches the Year of the Blue Dragon (i.e. 2024) according to the Korean zodiac.

History
In September 2016, Korail held a contest for the public to decide the design of the new models. After the development of HEMU-430X, Hyundai-Rotem and Korail signed an agreement in December 2016 for supplying high speed trains that are electric multiple units, the first of its kind in South Korea in commercial service (the HEMU-430X is also an electric multiple unit, but it is not for service and mass production). The order was for two variants: 2 eight-car EMU-320 units (with an operating speed of 320 km/h) and 19 six-car EMU-260 units, to be delivered around 2020–2021. In 2017, a mockup of the chosen design was exhibited to the public to promote the sister train (EMU-260) and receive feedback.

On March 28, 2022, it was reported that the EMU-320 consisting of 25 units for Korail and 19 units for SR Corporation were scheduled to be delivered from December 2023. Elements of the EMU-320 had to be re-designed due to serious concerns about excessive noise levels in the cab and passenger compartments, a key reason for its delay. Measures including improving the pantograph's shape and adding sound insulation to the ceiling and floor have been taken to reduce noise levels. Hyundai Rotem paid 19 billion won in damages for the delay in delivery. The two pre-series sets built by Hyundai Rotem following a 2016 contract were delivered to Korail in November 2023 and were expected to begin operations in 2024.

The model was officially renamed "KTX-Cheongryong" (KTX-) in April 2024.

The two pre-series sets entered service on the Gyeongbu high-speed railway and Honam high-speed railway since May 1, 2024. The remaining 17 trainsets ordered by Korail are scheduled to be delivered between April 2027 and March 2028, and another 14 trainsets to be delivered to SR Corporation from 2027 onwards.

Design
Technology incorporated in these trains is derived from the experimental HEMU-430X train previously tested by Korail. The KTX-Cheongryong will feature the same design as KTX-Eum trains, however the formation will consist of eight cars as opposed to six cars. Unlike the previous generations of KTX trains, the KTX-Cheongryong uses distributed traction with driving revenue cars at each end and six powered intermediate cars as opposed to a TGV-style power car-unpowered trailer configuration.

Aerodynamic changes to the front of the train are claimed to offer 10% lower resistance compared to previous high speed trains in South Korea. Trains will be equipped with sliding steps to cater for high and low platform heights. Seats in both first and second class will be capable of being rotated to face the direction of travel from a single control unit.

The train can accelerate from 0 to 300 km/h (0 to 186 mph) in 212 seconds, in contrast to 316 seconds for the KTX-Sancheon.

Interior
Unlike KTX-I and KTX-Sancheon, the seats on KTX-Cheongryong feature more leg room, wider armrests, USB ports, wireless charging pads, and entertainment displays similar to the inflight entertainment system found on aircraft. In addition, every seat is aligned with a window.

Gallery

See also
 List of high speed trains
 HEMU-430X
 KTX-Eum
 Rail transport in South Korea

References

External links
About KTX-Cheongryong (Korail) 

High-speed trains of South Korea
Electric multiple units of South Korea
Hyundai Rotem multiple units
25 kV AC multiple units
Train-related introductions in 2024