Remodeling 280 Mugunghwa-ho cars: Full replacement from interior lighting to undercarriage bogies

A large-scale remodeling project is underway to completely replace not only the exterior of aging Mugunghwa-ho trains but also their interior facilities and undercarriage driving components. According to KORAIL TV, this improvement work is scheduled to continue for 280 Mugunghwa-ho cars until 2028.

Exterior with special film and the bogey replacement process

During the remodeling process, the existing old paint is scraped off, recessed areas are filled, and a special film is applied to refresh the exterior. The video shows vehicles with the paint intentionally scraped off to demonstrate work efficiency, and after the film application, the restored gloss can be observed. In addition to the exterior, the undercarriage components responsible for the train's safety are also subject to replacement.

In particular, the replacement of the bogie, which acts as the "legs" of the train, is a core part of the work. Wheels worn down during operation undergo ultrasonic testing and then a shaving process, and high-difficulty work is performed where heavy passenger cars are lifted with cranes to be coupled with new bogies. In this process, special vehicles called Cheoncha and Gyeongincha, which can run on both tracks and roads, are used to move the heavy passenger cars and transport them to the maintenance depot.

Pleasant cabin interiors equipped with white lighting and air purifiers

The changes inside the passenger cabins are also distinct. Moving away from the existing dark atmosphere, subtle auxiliary lights have been added, and the previously yellowish reading lights have been replaced with white lighting to improve readability. Additionally, air purifiers are installed in the cabins to provide a pleasant environment, and the design of the air conditioner vents has been changed to a circular shape.

Upgrades to convenience facilities are also noticeable. Seats are equipped with manual reclining functions, and the toilets have changed from the existing silver design to a clean white. In particular, border lighting has been added to the toilet mirrors, and items such as cleaning supply storage boxes have also been replaced with bright white, providing a hygienic feel. The ceiling has also been newly decorated in pure white to create an overall bright and clean atmosphere.