Planning a trip to South Korea? One of the best things about traveling in Korea is its affordable, efficient, and well-connected public transportation system. From high-speed trains to local subways and buses, getting around is incredibly easy—especially if you know how to use Korean transportation cards.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of transit cards, how to use them, and tips for navigating Korea’s public transportation like a local.
π Why Use Public Transportation in Korea?
South Korea boasts one of the most efficient and affordable public transportation systems in the world. Whether you're exploring Seoul’s vibrant neighborhoods, heading to Busan’s beaches, or hopping between cities, the transit options are reliable, clean, and easy to use.
Benefits:
- Affordable fares (subway rides as low as $1.10)
- Timely and frequent schedules
- Signage and announcements in English
- Safe and well-maintained stations
π³ What Are Korea’s Transportation Cards?
To make your trip smoother, you’ll want to grab a transportation card (also called a T-money or Cashbee card). These prepaid smart cards are accepted across buses, subways, taxis, and even some convenience stores.
1. T-money Card
- Most commonly used in Seoul and major cities
- Works on subways, buses, and taxis nationwide
- Rechargeable at convenience stores or subway kiosks
2. Cashbee Card
- Popular in Busan and Jeju Island
- Offers similar functions as T-money
- Usable in taxis, stores, and most public transport systems
3. Korea Tour Card (for tourists)
- Functions like a T-money card but with added tourist benefits
- Discounts for attractions, shopping, and transportation
- Ideal for first-time travelers
Where to Buy:
- Incheon Airport (convenience stores like CU, GS25, 7-Eleven)
- Subway station vending machines
- Tourist information centers
π How to Use Public Transportation with a Transit Card
Using a transportation card is incredibly easy and intuitive:
✅ Subways
- Tap your card on the reader at the gate when entering and exiting.
- The fare is automatically deducted.
- Transfers between subway lines are free within a time limit.
Tip: Subway apps like KakaoMetro and Naver Map help plan routes in English.
✅ Buses
- Tap your card when entering and again when exiting.
- Fares differ by distance and bus type (blue, green, red, yellow).
- Tip: Buses display stops in English and Korean.
✅ Taxis
- Most taxis accept T-money and Cashbee cards.
- Look for the card symbol on the door.
- Simply tap to pay at the end of your ride.
✅ Convenience Stores
- Use your transit card like a debit card at many stores (e.g., CU, GS25).
- Great for snacks or drinks on the go!
π Intercity Travel: KTX, Buses, and More
For traveling between cities like Seoul, Busan, or Gyeongju:
✦ KTX (Korea Train Express)
- Fastest option (e.g., Seoul to Busan in 2.5 hours)
- Reserve online or at train stations
Transit cards do not work on KTX – separate tickets required
✦ Express & Intercity Buses
- Affordable and widely available
- Depart from major terminals like Seoul Express Bus Terminal
- Tickets can be bought on-site or via apps
π‘ Pro Tips for Travelers
Always top up your transportation card with enough credit (₩10,000 or more recommended).
Refunds for unused balances are available at convenience stores (small fee may apply).
If you’re traveling mostly in one region, check if T-money or Cashbee is more widely accepted.
Download apps like KakaoMap and Naver Map—they show accurate bus and subway routes in English.
𧳠Final Thoughts
South Korea’s transportation system is one of the best in the world, and with the help of a T-money or Cashbee card, you can travel like a local without language barriers or complicated tickets. Whether you’re hopping on a subway in Seoul, riding a bus in Busan, or catching a taxi late at night, these cards make it easy, fast, and worry-free.
If you want to explore Korea conveniently and affordably, getting a transportation card is your first step.
