The Ultimate Guide to Public Transportation in South Korea
South Korea boasts one of the most efficient and well-connected public transportation systems in the world. Whether you’re navigating the bustling streets of Seoul or exploring the countryside, getting around is easy, affordable, and convenient. From subways and buses to trains, taxis, and domestic flights, this guide covers everything you need to know about using transportation in Korea, including how to buy and use transportation cards for a seamless travel experience.
Arriving in Korea – Navigating from the Airport
Most international travelers arrive in Incheon International Airport (ICN), which is well-connected to major cities via express trains, buses, and taxis. A secondary international hub is Gimpo International Airport (GMP), primarily serving domestic and nearby international flights.
AREX (Airport Railroad Express): The AREX train provides a fast and convenient connection between Incheon Airport and Seoul Station. The Express Train takes about 43 minutes, while the All-Stop Train takes about 58 minutes.
Airport Limousine Buses: These buses connect the airport to major hotels and districts in Seoul and other cities.
Taxis: Airport taxis are available but can be more expensive than public transport.
Domestic Flights: For long-distance travel to places like Jeju Island or Busan, domestic flights from Incheon or Gimpo are the fastest option.
Transportation Cards – How to Purchase and Use
To make travel easier, purchasing a transportation card is highly recommended. These reloadable smart cards can be used on subways, buses, taxis, and even some convenience stores.
T-money Card: The most widely used transportation card in Korea, available at convenience stores and subway stations. It can be topped up at any subway station or store with a T-money logo.
Cashbee Card: Works similarly to T-money and is accepted on buses, subways, and taxis.
Korea Tour Card: A specialized T-money card offering additional discounts for tourists on attractions and shopping.
Simply tap your card at the entry and exit points of buses and subways. If using a taxi, present your card at the payment terminal.
Subway – The Best Way to Get Around Cities
Korea’s subway system is one of the best in the world, featuring clean, safe, and punctual trains. Major cities with subway networks include Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, and Daejeon.
Seoul Metro: The most extensive subway system with 23 lines, covering the entire metropolitan area.
Busan Metro: A four-line system covering Busan’s major districts and beaches.
Daegu, Daejeon, Gwangju: Smaller but efficient subway systems with fewer lines.
Operating Hours: Subways typically run from 5:30 AM to midnight.
Subway Apps: Apps like KakaoMetro and Naver Map provide real-time navigation and schedule updates.
Buses – Extensive and Affordable Travel
Buses in Korea are an affordable way to travel within cities and between regions.
Local City Buses: Color-coded based on routes (Blue for long-distance, Green for feeder routes, Yellow for circular routes, Red for express).
Express and Intercity Buses: Comfortable buses connecting different cities. These can be booked online via Kobus or at major bus terminals.
Bus Fare Payment: Use a T-money or Cashbee card or pay with cash (exact fare required).
Trains – The Best Way to Travel Between Cities
Korea’s rail system is fast, efficient, and ideal for traveling between major cities.
KTX (Korea Train Express): The fastest train service, reaching speeds up to 305 km/h. A KTX ride from Seoul to Busan takes about 2.5 hours.
Mugunghwa & ITX Trains: Slower but more affordable options for intercity travel.
Korail Pass: A special train pass for tourists, allowing unlimited travel for a set number of days.
Train Tickets: Book online via Korail’s website or at train stations.
Taxis – When and How to Use Them
Taxis are widely available and relatively inexpensive compared to Western countries.
Regular Taxis: Affordable and metered, available in silver, orange, or white.
Deluxe (Black) Taxis: Higher fare but offer more comfort and better service.
International Taxis: Designed for tourists, with drivers who speak English, Chinese, or Japanese.
Taxi Apps: Use Kakao T to hail taxis easily.
Domestic Flights – Fast Travel Between Regions
For long-distance travel, domestic flights can save time, especially for trips to Jeju Island, Busan, and Ulsan.
Major Domestic Airports: Gimpo, Busan (Gimhae), Jeju, Daegu, Gwangju.
Airlines: Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Jeju Air, T’way, Jin Air.
Flight Tickets: Can be booked through airline websites or travel agencies.
Essential Travel Tips for Public Transportation in Korea
Download Navigation Apps: Naver Map, KakaoMap, and Google Maps help with real-time navigation.
Check Last Train/Buses: Public transport stops running around midnight, so plan your return trip in advance.
Avoid Rush Hour: Subways and buses can get extremely crowded during 7-9 AM and 6-8 PM.
Use Translation Apps: Some signs are in English, but apps like Papago or Google Translate can help with additional language barriers.
Final Thoughts
Navigating South Korea’s transportation system is straightforward, thanks to its well-developed infrastructure. Whether you prefer the speed of KTX trains, the affordability of buses, or the convenience of subways, there are plenty of options to suit your travel needs. With a T-money card in hand and a good navigation app, exploring Korea becomes a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Korea Public Transportation Information
| Main Transport Modes | Subway, Bus, KTX, Taxi, Domestic Flights |
| Best Transport Card | T-money (works on subways, buses, taxis, convenience stores) |
| Airport to City Transport | AREX, Airport Limousine Buses, Taxis, Domestic Flights |
| Key Subway Apps | KakaoMetro, Naver Map, Google Maps |
| Train Booking | KTX via Korail website, train stations |
| Bus Booking | Kobus for express/intercity buses |
| Taxi Apps | Kakao T for easy taxi hailing |
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