This name was selected by members of the public, and expresses the desire to connect regions, people, and happiness through trains.

[5] After the development of the prototype HEMU-430X train, Hyundai-Rotem and Korail signed an agreement in June 2016 to supply high-speed electric multiple units, the first of its kind in South Korea in commercial service (the HEMU-430X is also an electric multiple unit, but it is not for service and mass production).

[13] The model was officially renamed "KTX-Eum" (KTX-이음) in October 2020, after Korail filed patent trademark with the Korean Intellectual Property Office.

[14] On January 4, 2021, the train entered service on Jungang Line operating between the electrified section of Cheongnyangni and Andong.

[8][18] Unlike KTX-I and KTX-Sancheon, the seats on KTX-Eum feature more leg room, wider armrests, USB ports, wireless charging pads, and entertainment displays similar to inflight entertainment systems found on aircraft.