A Complete Guide to Public Transportation in South Korea

Everything You Need to Know About Buses, Subways, Trains, and Taxis

South Korea has one of the most advanced and convenient public transportation systems in the world. Whether you are traveling within a major city like Seoul or moving between regions, there are several transport options that make getting around easy and efficient. This guide will help you understand how to use buses, subways, trains, taxis, and other transport services in Korea.

The Subway System in South Korea

The subway is the most convenient and reliable way to travel within major cities like Seoul, Busan, Daegu, and Incheon. Subway stations are well-marked, and signs are available in Korean, English, Chinese, and Japanese. Each subway line is color-coded, making navigation simple.

To use the subway, it is recommended to purchase a T-Money Card or Cashbee Card, which allows for seamless transfers between buses and subways. These cards can be purchased at convenience stores and subway stations. Subway fares start at around 1,250 KRW and increase based on distance traveled.

Popular subway apps such as Subway Korea and KakaoMap provide real-time updates on train schedules, helping travelers plan their routes efficiently.

Using the Bus System in Korea

Buses are another reliable form of transportation in South Korea, offering coverage in both urban and rural areas. Buses are categorized by color:

• Blue Buses - Long-distance routes connecting major districts.

• Green Buses - Shorter routes that link subway stations and neighborhoods.

• Yellow Buses - Circulating routes within specific areas.

• Red Buses - Express buses that connect suburban areas to major city centers.

A T-Money Card can be used to pay for bus fares, allowing seamless transfers between buses and subways. While bus routes are available in English on apps like KakaoMap, understanding the Korean signage can be helpful for easier navigation.

Traveling by Train in South Korea

For long-distance travel, South Korea’s Korea Train Express (KTX) is the fastest and most efficient way to move between major cities. The KTX train connects Seoul to Busan in just over two hours, making it the preferred option for intercity travel. Tickets can be purchased online via the Korail website or at train stations.

Other train options include:

• Mugunghwa Trains - Slower, budget-friendly trains.

• ITX-Saemaeul Trains - Faster than Mugunghwa but slower than KTX.

• SRT (Super Rapid Train) - An alternative to KTX with similar speeds.

Using Taxis in Korea

Taxis in Korea are convenient and widely available, but they can be more expensive than public transit. There are standard taxis and deluxe taxis, which offer more space and a better experience but at a higher fare. Most taxis accept credit cards and T-Money Cards for payment.

To book a taxi easily, use KakaoTaxi, Korea’s most popular taxi-hailing app. If you don’t speak Korean, having your destination written in Korean can help communicate with the driver.

Airport Transportation Options

When arriving in Korea, there are multiple ways to reach the city center from Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP):

• AREX (Airport Railroad Express) - The fastest way to travel from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station.

• Airport Limousine Buses - Comfortable buses that provide direct routes to hotels and major districts.

• Taxis and Car Rentals - Available for those who prefer private transport.

Final Tips for Using Public Transport in Korea

• Download KakaoMap or Naver Map for real-time navigation.

• Keep a T-Money Card handy for easy payment on buses, subways, and taxis.

• Be aware of peak hours, as public transport can be crowded during rush hours.

• Respect seating etiquette, especially designated seats for the elderly and disabled.

Navigating South Korea’s public transportation system is efficient, afforpublic-transportation-guide-koreadable, and foreigner-friendly. With the right tools and knowledge, traveling within Korea can be smooth and enjoyable.