The operator of subway Line No. 9 has canceled its plan to raise its fare under pressure from citizens and the municipal government.

Seoul Metro Line 9 Corporation announced a plan in April to increase the fare by 500 won to 1,550 won on June 16.

Citizens already suffering from inflating living costs criticized the plan.

The company apologized Wednesday for causing concern.

The operator and Seoul Metropolitan Government said they will resume negotiations over the fare and try to make efforts to maximize the benefits of citizens

The city previously said that increasing the fares without consultation was illegal. It has insisted that the firm apologize first in order to allow further negotiations.

(wone0102@heraldcorp.com)