Untangling Urban Mobility: A Health Geographic Perspective on Transportation Usage

Abstract

Abstract This study examines the complex relationships between health, geography and urban mobility in South Korea, focusing on trends in the use of buses, subways, and bicycles between 2018 and 2021. Statistical analyses are used to examine the relationships between these modes of transport, considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The results show a significant positive correlation between metro and bus use, which illustrates their interdependence. In contrast, bicycle use shows no significant correlation, suggesting independent dynamics. The study enriches our understanding of health geography in the urban environment and provides insights for policy makers, urban planners, and public health professionals around the world. The findings are particularly important for understanding transport dynamics amid external health challenges. The study not only contributes to academic discussions, but also provides guidance for future research on the multiple factors that influence urban mobility.