Core Points - Qingdao Metro Line 8 South Section has completed all tunneling work and aims to open by the end of 2026 [1][2] - The line connects major areas including Qingdao's main urban area, Chengyang District, and Jiaozhou City, facilitating access to Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport [1] - The entire Line 8 spans 61.4 kilometers with 18 stations, starting from Jiaozhou North Station to May Fourth Square [1] Summary by Sections North Section - The North Section of Line 8, which opened on December 24, 2020, runs 48.3 kilometers with 11 stations, including the longest underwater metro tunnel in China [1] - The underwater section is 7.9 kilometers long, with 5.4 kilometers under the sea, showcasing significant engineering challenges [1] - The North Section has seen increasing passenger traffic, especially during peak travel periods like the recent National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival [1] South Section - The South Section starts at Qingdao North Station and ends at May Fourth Square Station, covering 13.1 kilometers with 7 stations [2] - A significant milestone was achieved on September 26, 2023, with the successful completion of the first seamless rail joint, marking the acceleration of construction [2] Branch Line - The branch line of Line 8, connecting Jiaozhou and Qingdao, is currently in a critical construction phase, spanning 20.4 kilometers with 12 underground stations [2] - This branch line will enhance connectivity between Jiaozhou and the eastern and northern urban areas of Qingdao upon completion [2]