Getting around South Korea can be surprisingly easy—once you know how the public transportation system works. For newcomers, however, the variety of options, routes, and cards might feel overwhelming at first.
Whether you're commuting in Seoul, exploring Busan, or traveling cross-country, Korea’s public transport network is designed to be fast, clean, and efficient.
This guide will help you understand the basics of using subways, buses, taxis, and intercity trains in Korea as a foreigner.
You'll also learn which apps to download, how to use the T-money card, and what etiquette locals expect. By the end, you'll feel confident navigating the country like a pro.
Table of Contents :
- Introduction
- Understanding Korea’s Public Transportation Network
- Getting and Using a T-money Card
- Taking the Subway
- Using City Buses
- Taxis and Ride-Hailing
- Traveling Between Cities
• KTX (Korea Train Express)
• Express Buses - Useful Apps for Navigation
- Etiquette and Local Tips
- Final Thoughts
Understanding Korea’s Public Transportation Network
Korea's public transport system is well-connected and affordable. Major cities like Seoul, Busan, Daegu, and Incheon have their own subway and bus networks, but the general system functions similarly across the country.
You’ll typically use a T-money card, a rechargeable smart card that works on buses, subways, and even taxis. Fares are calculated based on distance, and transfers between subways and buses are discounted when you use the same T-money card.
For intercity travel, Korea offers a high-speed train network (KTX), regular trains, and express buses that link almost every part of the country.
Getting and Using a T-money Card
The T-money card is your best friend when using public transport in Korea.
Where to buy it: Convenience stores like GS25, CU, 7-Eleven, or subway station kiosks
Cost: About ₩2,500 for the card
How to recharge: At convenience stores or subway top-up machines using cash
Where to use it: Subways, buses, taxis, vending machines, some stores
Using T-money allows faster boarding and gives you automatic discounts on transfers. Don’t forget to tap when you enter and exit, especially for the subway.
Taking the Subway
Subways are the fastest and most convenient way to get around in big cities. Seoul’s subway, for example, has over 20 lines and connects most districts.
Hours: Usually 5:30 AM to midnight
Navigation: Signs and announcements are available in Korean, English, Chinese, and Japanese
Stations: Clean, safe, and equipped with Wi-Fi and restrooms
Fares: Start around ₩1,400, with small increases based on distance
To plan your route, use apps like Naver Map or KakaoMap, which offer detailed directions in English. Subways also display maps in train cars and stations, and digital boards show train arrival times.
Using City Buses
Buses are color-coded based on their function:
Blue buses: Long-distance within the city
Green buses: Short-distance, connecting subway stations
Red buses: Express, connecting Seoul with suburban areas
Yellow buses: Circulate within a small district or neighborhood
Fare: Usually ₩1,300–₩1,500, tap your T-money when boarding and exiting
Boarding: Enter from the front, exit from the rear
Buses can be more confusing than the subway due to route variations, but they’re reliable. Bus stops display route maps, and apps show arrival times.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Taxis are widely available and inexpensive compared to many countries.
Base fare: Starts at around ₩3,800 and increases by distance/time
Payment: T-money, credit card, or cash
Apps: Use Kakao T to hail a taxi, track location, and pay
Some taxi drivers may not speak English, so showing your destination in Korean or using an app is helpful. Late-night surcharges (after midnight) apply in most cities.
Traveling Between Cities
For intercity travel, you have two main options: trains and express buses.
🔳 KTX (Korea Train Express)
High-speed train linking cities like Seoul, Busan, Daejeon, and Gwangju
Fast, clean, and efficient with reserved seating
Tickets available at stations, online, or via kiosks (English options available)
🔳 Express Buses
Available from major bus terminals like Seoul Express Bus Terminal
Comfortable and affordable, with frequent departures
Some terminals have English-speaking staff or signage
To check schedules, visit the KTX Korail website or Express Bus website. Booking early is recommended during holidays.
Useful Apps for Navigation
Before you travel, install these apps:
Naver Map: More accurate than Google Maps in Korea
KakaoMap: Real-time navigation and public transport info
Kakao T: Taxi booking and fare tracking
Subway Korea for Android: Subway maps and route planning
Subway Korea for iOS: Subway maps and route planning
All apps offer English versions and are essential for planning trips, finding the fastest routes, and checking schedules.
Etiquette and Local Tips
Public transport in Korea is clean, quiet, and respectful. Follow these tips to blend in:
Don’t speak loudly or take calls on the subway
Priority seating is for elderly, pregnant, and disabled individuals—don’t use it unless you qualify
Stand in line when boarding buses or subways
No eating or drinking inside subway trains
Give up your seat to someone who needs it more
People appreciate when foreigners follow these norms, and it helps avoid awkward moments.
At first, Korea’s public transport system may seem overwhelming, especially if you’re used to driving everywhere. But once you get used to it, it becomes one of the best parts of living in Korea. It's fast, cheap, and covers almost every area you'll want to explore.
With a T-money card in hand, a few essential apps on your phone, and this guide in your pocket, you'll be ready to travel confidently—whether you're heading to work, school, or weekend adventures.
If you're based in Seoul, visit the Seoul Global Center for helpful guidance. For immigration-related info, check out HiKorea.
