The bus rapid transit system, also known as "subway on the ground," will debut in the country next year.

The system is an upgrade from the use of the central traffic lane for buses only, with improvements in speed, punctuality and capacity.

Costing much less than a subway or light rail transit, the new bus system could significantly relieve traffic congestion.

The first route is a 14.8-kilometer section connecting the Gunja district of Seoul to Hanam, Gyeonggi Province.