There is a small guessing game at the foot of an escalator: “Stand on the right? Can we stand side by side?” But if one hand holds coffee and the other a phone, there is something to solve before choosing a line: make a hand available for the handrail.
On 23 September, SBS reported on the debate over escalator use. The Korean interior ministry’s original announcement that day says it will stop pursuing a blanket two-line campaign and regulation, and focus on safety practices and the riding environment. This guide applies that announcement to everyday journeys, using information checked by 21:08 KST on 23 September 2026. SBS report · Interior ministry announcement
Key points
- Ending a blanket two-line campaign does not mean walking or running on an escalator is encouraged.
- Remember the three core rules: hold the handrail, do not walk or run, and stay within the safety markings.
- Locate the elevator first for a stroller or bulky luggage, and leave the exit clear after stepping off.
1. Ending a two-line campaign is not permission to walk
The retained principles are hold the handrail, do not walk or run, and respect the safety markings. Not prescribing one queue arrangement is different from saying people should walk on moving steps. Nor does an empty side automatically become an overtaking lane. Official follow-up measures and three safety rules
Follow instructions at the facility and directions from safety staff. Plan to wait rather than pressuring someone to move or abruptly changing position on moving steps. When a journey plan considers only minutes saved, it is easy to leave out a companion’s pace and the location of the elevator.
From before boarding to after stepping off
An editorial concept diagram of four moments to check before debating the number of lines.
- 01Before boardingPrepare a hand for the handrail and check where to place your feet.
- 02While ridingFace forward, stand still and observe the handrail and safety markings.
- 03When stepping offClear the exit so the next passengers have space.
- 04With bulky itemsFind the elevator before boarding.
2. Before boarding: organise your belongings first
Holding the handrail is easier when your hand is already free before boarding. Put away your phone, adjust a slipping bag, and leave time to check long clothing and loose shoelaces. Finish organising in a place that does not block the entrance.
Use the elevator for strollers, shopping carts, and large or heavy items. Hold a child’s hand and travel together. Equipment maker KONE’s guidance addresses these situations separately. KONE safety guidance
Instead of “We have a suitcase, so let’s get on quickly,” ask “Which exit is the elevator near?” That can also avoid an awkward change of direction after reaching the escalator entrance with luggage. If a companion uses a walking aid or wheelchair, check the elevator route together from the outset.
3. Riding and stepping off are different tasks
While riding, face forward and hold the handrail, with your feet securely on the step and away from its edges. Step off properly at the end and leave room for people behind you to exit. Riding posture and exit guidance
There is one more useful distinction: your ride may be over while the people behind you are still moving. You can open the navigation app or wait for companions after moving away from the landing. Choose a separate meeting point that does not obstruct traffic instead of using the end of the escalator.
For a child, a short sequence such as “Hold hands, watch your feet, then move ahead when we get off” may be easier to explain than many rules at once. This is an example of wording a caregiver could use, not an official slogan.
4. Adapt the plan to your situation
| Situation | Decide before boarding | Check during the journey |
|---|---|---|
| Both hands are occupied | Organise items and free a hand for the handrail | Avoid disrupting your stance to rearrange luggage |
| Travelling with a child | Prepare to hold hands and travel together; use the elevator if needed | Make sure the child is not playing on the steps |
| Stroller, bulky luggage or walking aid | Locate the elevator route and signs | Ask staff for help if the alternative route is difficult |
| Unfamiliar station or shopping centre | Pick a meeting point away from the exit | Do not stand in the landing area |
| A train departure is close | Change a plan that depends on rushing | Do not run or pressure the person ahead |
This table is a personal journey-planning aid. It does not describe a particular station’s layout or live crowd conditions; check the instructions at your destination.
5. A policy announcement is not the same as a change at your station
The ministry also announced work to improve handrail hygiene and signs. A plan does not establish that new equipment is already installed at every station. If signs are missing or the elevator is hard to find, ask station or facility staff. Plans to improve the riding environment
Before leaving, check whether you can hold the handrail, whether the chosen route suits your luggage and companions, and whether your meeting point leaves the exit clear. Upstairs may be the destination, but your hands, feet and luggage deserve a place in the plan. That is more useful for your next ride than memorising the queue debate.