Understanding the role of shared e-scooters in Seoul: The perspective of regional transportation system and commuting population

Abstract

Electric scooter (e-scooter) sharing services are being increasingly looked at as an eco-friendly and efficient micromobility option within cities, which aid in traveling short distances. However, research in this area is scant, especially in terms of its usage in large urban cities. This study explores the practical applications including usage of shared e-scooters in Seoul, the largest city in South Korea. Specifically, we examine the role of transportation infrastructure and the commuting population in using e-scooters. The results show that e-scooter usage varies according to the presence of subways and buses. In addition, shared e-scooters are more active in small areas with fewer parking lots and broader roads nearby. This study also finds that the commuting population has a greater impact on using shared e-scooters. Furthermore, the influence of workplaces becomes greater during peak rental times in the morning and evening, revealing that commuting is the primary purpose of e-scooter rentals. Within a metropolitan city, these findings indicate the role of e-scooters as shaped by each administrative district’s sociodemographic and transportation factors.