A Complete Guide to Navigating Korea’s Public Transportation System in 2025
※ This article is based on official information as of July 14, 2025.
🚉 Summary at a Glance
Korea’s public transportation system is one of the most efficient, clean, and foreigner-friendly in the world.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to use the subway, bus, T-money card, and more—step-by-step, with official links and insider tips.
From Seoul to Busan, this info will help you move like a local and avoid the confusion many travelers and new residents face.
Why It Matters
It’s late, you’re jet-lagged, and you’re standing in a Korean subway station wondering which platform goes where.
Sound familiar?
Many foreigners arrive in Korea full of energy—but end up overwhelmed by the signs, fare machines, and bus numbers.
That’s why understanding how to use Korea’s public transportation isn’t just about convenience—it’s about confidence, safety, and saving time.
Real Story: A Filipino Student in Seoul
Ana, a student from Manila, landed in Seoul excited to explore.
But on her second day, she accidentally boarded an intercity bus instead of a local one—and ended up in the suburbs of Gyeonggi-do.
She missed her language class, had to call her dorm advisor, and felt embarrassed.
After that, she downloaded KakaoMap, bought a T-money card, and stuck with subways until she understood the bus system.
Today, she’s a public transport pro—and now helps other new students find their way around.
Eligibility & Conditions
Korea’s public transportation system is open to:
- All foreigners, regardless of visa type
- Visitors, residents, and short-term travelers
- Children and students (discounts apply with ID)
- Seniors (discount cards available for long-term residents)
Step-by-Step: How to Use Public Transportation in Korea
1. Get a T-money or Cashbee Card
- Buy it at convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) or subway stations
- Load money using a kiosk or at the counter
- Works for subway, bus, taxi, and some stores
💡 TIP: Always tap when getting on and off buses!
2. Download Navigation Apps
Use one (or more) of these for accurate real-time directions in English:
- KakaoMap: https://map.kakao.com
- Naver Map: https://map.naver.com
- Kakao T (Taxi App): https://www.kakaomobility.com/en/
- Google Maps is not reliable for navigation in Korea
3. Use the Subway
- All subway signs are in Korean + English
- Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, Gwangju have subway systems
- Fares start at around ₩1,250 with a T-money card
- Transfers between subway lines are free within 30 mins
🚇 Subway Map (Seoul):
https://www.seoulmetro.co.kr/en/page.do?menuIdx=355
4. Ride the Bus Like a Local
- Bus colors matter:
- Blue = long distance / city center
- Green = short routes / neighborhoods
- Yellow = circular routes
- Red = express/intercity
- Tap your T-money when boarding and exiting
🚌 Bus delays are rare—but during rush hour, they do happen.
5. Intercity and Express Buses
Planning a trip from Seoul to Busan or Gangneung?
- Use Express Bus Terminal or KOBUS site:
https://www.kobus.co.kr/main.do - Book online or at terminal kiosks
- Affordable, comfortable, and safe
6. Late-Night and Airport Transportation
- Seoul has late-night buses (N Bus) and AREX trains to Incheon
- Taxis are reliable but pricier—especially at night
- Airport limousine buses go to most major hotels and areas
7. Taxi Options for Foreigners
- Kakao T (English mode): Taxi, bike, driver, shuttle
- International taxis (orange) offer English, Chinese, or Japanese
- Avoid hailing random taxis late at night—use apps when possible
8. Transportation Discounts
- Children (ages 6–12): 50% discount
- Youth (ages 13–18): 20% discount
- Long-term residents: May apply for metro discount cards
- Seniors (65+): Free subway rides in some cities (ARC required)
FAQ
Can I use my foreign credit card on the subway?
No. Only Korean transportation cards (like T-money) or mobile payment apps linked to a Korean bank work for transit.
What if I get lost on the subway or bus?
Use KakaoMap or ask a station worker. Most subway staff understand basic English and are used to helping foreigners.
Are public transportation hours limited?
Yes. Subways usually run from 5:30 AM to around midnight. Buses vary by route. Always check the app for your last ride home!
Regional Differences
- Seoul: Best infrastructure, English support, fastest routes
- Busan: Beautiful ocean-view subway lines, fewer English signs
- Jeju: No subway, only bus (download Jeju Bus Info app)
- Incheon: Airport city, AREX line connects to Seoul
Official Transportation Resources
- Korea Tourism Subway Guide:
https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/svc/contents/infoView.do?menuSn=351 - T-money info (Korea Smart Card):
https://www.koreasmartcard.com/eng/ - Kakao Mobility (Taxi/Map App):
https://www.kakaomobility.com/en/
A Last Line to Keep in Mind
Getting around Korea shouldn’t feel like a test.
Once you learn the basics—tap in, tap out, follow the signs—you’ll start feeling less like a stranger, and more like someone who’s really here.
So don’t be afraid to hop on that next train.
Your journey in Korea starts with one ride.
One Thing Worth Sharing
📩 Got a friend, classmate, or travel buddy coming to Korea soon?
Help them avoid rookie mistakes.
Share this guide—and make their first ride smoother.
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