Impacts of COVID-19 on bike-sharing usages in Seoul, South Korea

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered urban mobility, prompting increased interest in safer micro mobility options like e-scooters and bike-sharing. However, research on how COVID-19 affects micro mobility, particularly in major Asian cities, is scarce. This study examines the impact of COVID-19 and related factors on bike-sharing ridership in Seoul, South Korea, using detailed urban telecommunication data. Analyzing spatial-temporal patterns of a docked bike-sharing system, the study employs negative binomial panel regressions to explore COVID-19's effects and built environments on bike-sharing usage. Results show that open spaces and green infrastructure positively influence bike-sharing. Additionally, real-time telecommunication floating population data correlate significantly with both bike trip count and duration. These findings inform shared mobility planning during and after the pandemic, offering insights for improving urban mobility in Seoul and similar cities.