Getting Around Seoul: T-money, Subway & Bus Guide

Seoul's Public Transportation Is World-Class

Seoul has one of the best public transportation systems in the world. Clean, affordable, punctual, and incredibly extensive. With a T-money card in hand, you can get virtually anywhere in the city for under ₩2,000.

T-money Card: Your Essential Travel Companion

The T-money card is a rechargeable transit card that works on subways, buses, taxis, and even convenience stores.

Where to Buy

• Any convenience store (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven, Ministop)
• Subway station ticket machines
• Incheon Airport arrivals hall

Cost

Item	Price
Card deposit (non-refundable)	₩2,500
Recommended initial load	₩20,000–₩30,000
Recharge	Any convenience store or subway machine

Seoul Subway (Metro)

The Seoul Metro has 23 lines covering over 700 stations. All stations have English signage and announcements — the system is incredibly user-friendly.

Key Lines for Tourists

• 1 Line 1 — Seoul Station, Jongno, Dongdaemun
• 2 Line 2 — Hongdae, Gangnam, Jamsil, Euljiro (circle line)
• 3 Line 3 — Gyeongbokgung, Anguk (Bukchon), Express Bus Terminal
• 4 Line 4 — Myeongdong, Seoul Station, Itaewon area
• 6 Line 6 — Itaewon, Hangang River parks

Hours & Frequency

Schedule	Time
First train	~5:30 AM
Last train	~midnight (varies by line)
Rush hour frequency	Every 2–5 minutes
Off-peak frequency	Every 5–10 minutes

Fare

Ticket Type	Base Fare	Coverage
T-money card	₩1,400	Up to 10 km
Single-journey ticket	₩1,500	Up to 10 km
Additional fare	+₩100	Per 5 km over 10 km

Seoul Bus System

Buses fill the gaps the subway doesn't reach. They're color-coded by type:

Color	Type	Route
Blue	Trunk	Long-distance routes across the city
Green	Feeder	Neighborhood routes connecting to subway
Red	Express	Routes to suburbs (Bundang, Ilsan)
Yellow	Circular	Short circular routes in central Seoul

Taxis

Seoul taxis are safe, plentiful, and affordable compared to most major cities.

Type	Color	Base Fare
Regular	Silver/White	₩4,800
Deluxe	Black	₩7,000
Jumbo (van)	Various	Varies

KTX (High-Speed Rail)

Planning a day trip to Busan or other cities? The KTX bullet train is your best bet.

Route	Duration	From
Seoul → Busan	2h 30min	₩59,800
Seoul → Daejeon	50 min	₩22,800
Seoul → Gyeongju	2h 10min	₩52,800

Getting Around at Night

After the last subway (~midnight), you have two options:

• Night buses (N-buses): Run major routes until ~3–4 AM
• Taxis: Available 24/7 — note the 20% late-night surcharge after midnight
• Kakao T: Easiest way to grab a late-night taxi