Visiting South Korea? One of the smartest things you can do is learn how to use public transportation in Korea. With an efficient, clean, and affordable system, Korea’s public transport makes it easy for tourists to get around — once you know how it works. In this post, you’ll find all the essentials: T-money cards, subway apps, and local bus tips.
🎫 1. Get a T-money Card
The T-money card is the most important tool when figuring out how to use public transportation in Korea. This rechargeable smart card works on subways, buses, and even taxis in most cities including Seoul, Busan, and Incheon.
Where to buy it:
-
Convenience stores like GS25, CU, and 7-Eleven
-
Airport counters or vending machines
How to use it:
-
Tap in and out on the subway
-
Tap once when boarding a bus
Using a T-money card also gives you a slight fare discount, and it’s much faster than paying cash.
🚇 2. Download a Subway App
If you want to master how to use public transportation in Korea, downloading a subway app is a game-changer. Apps like Korea Subway, Subway Korea, or Naver Map provide:
-
Real-time train schedules
-
Transfer info
-
Route recommendations
-
English interface
Tip: The Seoul subway system is vast with over 20 lines. These apps will help you avoid getting lost.
🚌 3. Know the Bus System
Learning how to use public transportation in Korea also means understanding how the bus system works. Each city has color-coded buses:
-
Blue buses: Long-distance/Inter-city
-
Green buses: Shorter local routes
-
Yellow buses: Circular routes in busy areas
-
Red buses: Express buses connecting suburbs and downtown
Use the T-money card for seamless transfers between subway and bus. Bus stops often have digital signboards in English that show arrival times.
📱 Bonus Tip: Use Naver Map or KakaoMap
Naver Map and KakaoMap are essential when planning how to use public transportation in Korea. Google Maps doesn’t work well here, so these local apps are the best alternatives. They offer:
-
Transit directions
-
Walking navigation
-
Subway and bus info
-
Multi-language support
🚖 What About Taxis and Airport Transfers?
Although most tourists focus on how to use public transportation in Korea, taxis can also be convenient — especially if you’re carrying luggage or traveling late at night. Here’s what you should know:
-
Taxis are reasonably priced in Korea, with base fares starting around 3,800 KRW.
-
Use apps like Kakao T or UT (Uber Korea) to book a ride with English support.
-
T-money cards generally don’t work in taxis; pay with cash or credit card.
For airport transfers, Airport Limousine Buses and AREX (Airport Express Train) are great options. They’re reliable, on time, and very tourist-friendly.
🌉 Regional Differences in Transportation
Understanding how to use public transportation in Korea also involves recognizing regional variations. While Seoul has the most advanced system, other cities like Busan, Daegu, and Gwangju operate their own subway and bus lines.
-
Busan Metro is more straightforward and less crowded than Seoul.
-
In Jeju Island, there is no subway — only buses or rental cars.
-
Each region supports T-money, but some local cards may also exist.
So, even if you’re traveling outside the capital, you can still confidently navigate thanks to Korea’s integrated transport infrastructure.
🧳 Final Travel Tips
Before you begin your trip, remember these quick tips for mastering how to use public transportation in Korea:
-
Always check first and last train/bus times (they usually stop running around midnight).
-
Avoid rush hours (8–9 AM and 6–7 PM) for a more comfortable ride.
-
Public announcements in Seoul subways are made in Korean, English, Chinese, and Japanese.
-
Always stand on the right side of escalators (especially in Seoul!).
By following these suggestions, you’ll not only save time and money, but also experience Korea more like a local.
✅ Final Thoughts
Figuring out how to use public transportation in Korea might seem overwhelming at first, but with the right tools like a T-money card and local apps, it becomes simple and efficient. Whether you’re hopping between palaces in Seoul or visiting cafes in Busan, public transport is your best friend.
답글 남기기