The title of the world’s fastest train is currently held by the Magnetic Levitation train, better known as the Maglev. This technology allows the train to float above the tracks using magnetic force, thereby reducing friction and enabling extraordinary speeds—even surpassing 600 km/h!
East Asia has become the most advanced region in the development of Maglev technology. The three main countries—China, Japan, and South Korea—each have different approaches, innovations, and goals in building their Maglev systems.
Understanding Maglev Trains in General
Maglev stands for Magnetic Levitation, an advanced transportation technology that enables trains to “float” above the tracks using magnetic force. Unlike conventional trains, Maglev trains have no wheels touching the rails, so there is no mechanical friction that typically slows down movement.
With zero friction, Maglev trains can travel at much higher speeds, offering smoother movement and almost no noise. This advantage also makes Maglev components more durable and less prone to wear, resulting in lower maintenance costs compared to regular trains.
However, despite these advantages, Maglev faces significant infrastructure challenges. The system requires specialized technology and entirely new tracks separate from conventional rails. This means Maglev cannot use existing infrastructure, making the initial construction costs much higher.
Because of these cost and technological complexities, not many countries have adopted Maglev systems commercially. To date, only three countries have operated Maglev trains for the public; China, Japan, and South Korea.
Comparing Maglev Trains in China, Japan, and Korea
China, Japan, and Korea are known as pioneers of Maglev technology in Asia. Although they all use the principle of magnetic levitation, the Maglev trains in these three countries have distinct characteristics.
Who’s the Fastest?
Among the three, Japan and China are in close competition when it comes to Maglev speed. Japan still holds the world record with its SCMaglev test run on the Chuo Shinkansen project, reaching 603 km/h. Meanwhile, China has developed a next-generation Maglev capable of reaching speeds of up to 600 km/h, which has already been tested as a commercial prototype.
At present, the fastest commercial Maglev train in the world is also in China—the Shanghai Transrapid—which operates at up to 300 km/h and set a test record of 431 km/h in 2021.
Unlike Japan and China, South Korea has focused on medium-speed Maglev trains, around 110 km/h, intended for efficient and environmentally friendly urban transportation.
Distance and Operational Routes
China was the first country to operate a commercial Maglev, starting in 2004. The route connects Shanghai Pudong International Airport to Longyang Road Station in Shanghai, covering a distance of about 30 km.
Although the distance is relatively short, the train can cover it in just 7–8 minutes at an operational speed of up to 300 km/h.
Meanwhile, South Korea has been operating low-speed commercial Maglev trains since 2016, connecting Incheon International Airport to Yongyu Station over a distance of about 6 km.
Japan, on the other hand, is still constructing its large-scale Chuo Shinkansen project, which will connect Tokyo–Nagoya–Osaka. The first phase (Tokyo–Nagoya, approximately 286 km) is targeted for completion in 2034, reducing travel time from 100 minutes to just 40 minutes. The second phase to Osaka is expected to be completed by 2037.
Public Availability
China is the only one of the three countries that has fully operated high-speed Maglev trains for the public. The Shanghai Transrapid has been open to the public since 2004, with tickets available for purchase directly at stations or online.
South Korea has also opened its urban Maglev to the public since 2016, but at lower speeds and shorter distances. This Maglev service in Korea is free of charge.
Japan, meanwhile, has not yet opened its Maglev to the public. The Chuo Shinkansen project is still under construction and testing. Passenger services are planned to start in mid-2034, with the Tokyo–Nagoya route as the first phase.
Conclusion: Who’s the Leader in Maglev Technology?
In terms of real-world application and public access, China is currently in the lead. They have operated the Shanghai Transrapid commercially since 2004 and continue to push the development of next-generation, ultra-high-speed Maglev trains.
Japan excels in technological innovation and speed. Its SCMaglev holds the world speed record and is at the heart of the ambitious Chuo Shinkansen project. Although not yet available to the public, Japan shows great potential in transforming the future of long-distance travel.
South Korea, on the other hand, has taken a more practical and efficient approach. Their Maglev operates within cities at medium speeds, suitable for daily mobility such as airport and urban connections.
In short, each country has its own strengths; China leads in operational advancement, Japan excels in technology, and Korea focuses on everyday efficiency.
