Since the construction of the “Kaohsiung Rapid Transit System – the Red and Orange Lines Construction Project” was announced by Kaohsiung City Government (hereunder briefed as “KCG”) on February 1, 1999, China Steel Corporation invited other companies began to organize the “Kaohsiung Rapid Transit Corporation Preparatory Office” for initiating the investment in the Kaohsiung Rapid Transit System (hereunder briefed as “KRTS”). On May 10, 2000, the “Kaohsiung Rapid Transit Corporation (KRTC) Preparatory Office” was rated as the most favorable applicant by the Selection & Review Board established by KCG and the company was incorporated after the contract negotiation with KCG, and the company license was granted on December 28 of the same year. Later on January 12, 2001, the KRTC signed the “Construction and Operation Contract” and “Development Contract” with KCG and started the construction from October 2001 to formally commence the KRTS project. After six more years of construction, the Kaohsiung MRT Red and Orange lines started regular service from 2008. According to the contract, a total of 36 years will be granted as the concession period for the building and operation of the KRTS starting from the work commencement in the end of October 2001 to the end of October 2037.

With the launch of Red and Orange Lines since 2008, KRTC is dedicated to expanding its service scope and increasing the number of passengers. In addition, KRTC continues to hold different activities and develop various subsidiary businesses. Sustainable operation is the goal that KRTC is striving for, and we will devote all of our efforts to the prosperity and development of the Greater Kaohsiung Area.

KRTC also offers railway transportation and technical services including construction of MRT system and light rail, railway transport operation and land development in order to play a key role to promote public transportation, tourism and city image of Kaohsiung. KRTC will continue to fulfill its commitment to provide customer service and quality operation which bring more benefits for setting a new milestone of sustainable transportation in Kaohsiung Metropolitan Area.

The rapid transit system is more than just traffic transport. It not only brings convenient transportation to people, but is also the source of shaping a modernized urban pattern and is the driving force for a better lifestyle. In addition, the KRTS will combine public arts to cultivate an active and quality-wide MRT culture by playing a soft-touch role in public arts. On this basis, it is hoped that a fresh style may be shaped for this harbor city in providing an environment for citizens to access artistic life and bringing a brand-new look for the southern area of Taiwan.