Bujeon Masan Railway, South Korea 

The Bujeon–Masan Railway Project is a major infrastructure development in South Korea, aimed at improving high-speed rail connectivity along the country’s southern coast, between Bujeon Station in Busan to Masan Station 51 km to the West.

WJ’s Involvement
WJ Groundwater was engaged by SK ecoplant, the main contractor, to address complex dewatering challenges which arose during tunnel cross passage construction.

Due to the urgency, WJ rapidly mobilised specialist pumping test equipment and materials by airfreight from the UK, and deployed an experienced team from the UK, with the added logistical challenge of international travel while the world was under Covid travel restrictions.

The pumping tests, conducted at depths of up to 60 meters, were successful and allowed a 3D model to be calibrated, and a 40-well dewatering system was designed. The 300l/sec capacity system was installed using equipment and personnel sourced from WJ’s operations in the UK, UAE, and Philippines.

The system was carefully operated to avoid impacting nearby tunnel structures and a railway bridge, performing exactly as predicted by WJ’s groundwater models.

This project marked WJ’s 18th country of operation, showcasing its ability to deliver specialist dewatering solutions in complex environments. The success of the Bujeon–Masan project further solidified WJ’s reputation for technical excellence and international collaboration.