How to Use Public Transportation in Korea: A Foreigner’s Complete Guide
Korea public transportation is widely regarded as one of the most efficient and convenient systems in the world. For foreigners visiting or living in South Korea, mastering this comprehensive network of subways, buses, taxis, and more can significantly enhance your experience and save you money. This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know about navigating Korean cities like a local.
Transportation Cards: Your Key to Korea’s Public Transport
The first step to using Korea public transportation effectively is getting a transportation card. These rechargeable cards are essential for hassle-free travel.
T-money Card
The most popular transportation card is the T-money card, which can be used throughout the country in major cities including Seoul, Busan, Daegu, and more.
- Where to buy: Convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven), subway stations, and bus terminals
- Cost: Approximately 2,500-4,000 won for the card itself (non-refundable)
- How to recharge: At convenience stores, subway ticket machines, or dedicated T-money recharge machines
- Benefits: 100 won discount on transfers within 30 minutes between buses and subways
[External link: https://www.tmoney.co.kr/en/main/main.do – Official T-money website]
Cashbee Card
Another option is the Cashbee card, which functions similarly to the T-money card.
Mobile T-money
Tech-savvy travelers can use mobile T-money services through apps like Kakao Pay or mobile banking apps if you have a Korean phone number.
Navigating Seoul’s Subway System
The Seoul Metropolitan Subway is the backbone of Korea public transportation in the capital region, connecting Seoul with surrounding cities in Gyeonggi Province.
Key Features
- Hours: Generally 5:30 AM to midnight (varies by line)
- Cost: Starts at 1,350 won for basic fare, with additional charges based on distance
- English support: All stations have signs, maps, and announcements in English
- Station numbering: Each line has a color and number, and each station has a designated number (e.g., Line 2, Station 201: City Hall)
Navigation Tips
- Download apps like Kakao Metro, Naver Maps, or Citymapper
- Look for the colored line numbers at station entrances
- Check the direction of travel by noting the terminal stations displayed on platform signs
- Transfer stations are clearly marked with the connecting line colors
[External link: https://www.smrt.co.kr/english/main/index.jsp – Seoul Metro official website]
Understanding Korean Bus Systems
Korea public transportation includes several types of buses, each with distinct purposes and routes.
Bus Types in Seoul
1. Blue buses (๊ฐ์ ๋ฒ์ค)
- Main arterial routes through Seoul
- Connect different districts
- Fare: 1,200 won with transportation card
2. Green buses (์ง์ ๋ฒ์ค)
- Shorter routes within specific neighborhoods
- Connect to subways and blue bus routes
- Fare: 1,200 won with transportation card
3. Red buses (๊ด์ญ๋ฒ์ค)
- Express service connecting Seoul with suburban areas
- Fewer stops, faster service
- Fare: 2,300+ won depending on distance
4. Yellow buses (์ํ๋ฒ์ค)
- Circular routes in downtown Seoul
- Tourist-friendly, passing major landmarks
- Fare: 1,100 won with transportation card
5. Night buses (์ฌ๋นผ๋ฏธ ๋ฒ์ค)
- Operate between midnight and 5:00 AM
- Limited routes covering major areas
- Higher fare than daytime buses
How to Use Buses
- Check the bus number and route before boarding
- Tap your transportation card when entering
- Press the stop button before your destination
- Tap your card again when exiting (for distance-based fares)
[External link: https://www.visitkorea.or.kr/ena/TRP/TP_ENG_2_1.jsp – Visit Korea public transport information]
Intercity Travel Options
For traveling between cities, Korea public transportation offers several excellent options.
KTX (Korea Train eXpress)
- High-speed rail service reaching speeds up to 305 km/h
- Connects major cities (Seoul to Busan in under 3 hours)
- Tickets: Purchase at stations, via the Korail website, or through apps like Korail Talk
- Reserved seating recommended, especially during holidays
ITX (Intercity Train eXpress)
- Medium-speed train service
- More stops than KTX but cheaper fares
- Popular for reaching destinations like Chuncheon or Yeosu
Express Buses
- Extensive network connecting cities and towns
- Two classes: Express (๊ณ ์) and Intercity (์์ธ)
- Tickets available at bus terminals or online via T-money website
[External link: https://www.letskorail.com/ebizbf/EbizBfEngIndex.do – Korail English website]
Taxis in Korea
While not the cheapest option, taxis are an important part of Korea public transportation, especially late at night or for reaching places off the main routes.
Standard Taxis
- Base fare: Approximately 3,800 won in Seoul (first 2km)
- Orange, silver, or white colors
- Can be hailed on the street or at designated taxi stands
Deluxe Taxis (Black Taxis)
- Premium service with higher fares
- More spacious and comfortable
- No late-night surcharge
Kakao Taxi
The Korean equivalent of Uber, the Kakao T app allows you to call taxis using your smartphone. The app is available in English and connects to international credit cards.
[External link: https://www.kakaocorp.com/page/service/service/KakaoT – Kakao T service information]
Money-Saving Tips for Korea Public Transportation
- Use transportation cards for automatic discounts and free transfers
- Take advantage of transfers between buses and subways (free or discounted within 30 minutes)
- Consider day passes for extensive sightseeing in Seoul
- Book KTX tickets in advance for better prices
- Use late-night buses instead of taxis when possible
Etiquette on Korean Public Transport
Understanding local customs will help you navigate Korea public transportation more smoothly:
- Give up priority seats to elderly, pregnant women, or disabled passengers
- Avoid loud conversations, especially on phones
- Don’t eat on buses or subway trains (though it’s generally acceptable on intercity trains)
- Line up in orderly queues at bus stops and subway platforms
- Remove backpacks on crowded vehicles
Useful Apps for Navigating Korea
Make your Korea public transportation experience easier with these apps:
- Naver Maps – The most comprehensive navigation app in Korea
- Kakao Maps – Another excellent option with English support
- Subway Korea – Focused on subway navigation with offline capabilities
- Kakao T – For taxi hailing
- KorailTalk – For train ticket booking
[External link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nhn.android.nmap – Naver Maps on Google Play]
Final Thoughts
Korea public transportation is a model of efficiency, cleanliness, and convenience. With this guide and a little practice, you’ll be navigating Korean cities like a local in no time. The comprehensive network might seem overwhelming at first, but the logical organization, clear signage, and helpful technology make it accessible even for those who don’t speak Korean.
Whether you’re exploring bustling Seoul, relaxing in coastal Busan, or venturing to historic Gyeongju, Korea’s public transport system will get you there comfortably, affordably, and on time. Happy travels!
Have you used public transportation in Korea? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below!