KTX High-Speed Train in Korea | How to Buy Tickets & Use the KR Pass (2025 Guide)

KTX High-Speed Train in Korea: How to Buy Tickets & Use the KR Pass (2025 Guide)

Korea’s KTX (Korea Train Express) is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Gwangju. With trains reaching speeds of up to 305 km/h (190 mph), you can cross the country in just a few hours. This guide will show you how to buy KTX tickets, use the Korea Rail Pass (KR Pass), and make the most of your trip in 2025.

Major KTX Routes & Destinations
How to Buy KTX Tickets
Using the Korea Rail Pass (KR Pass)
Ticket Prices & Seat Types
Travel Tips for Foreign Visitors
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Tips

Major KTX Routes & Destinations

Route	Key Destinations	Travel Time
KTX Seoul ⇄ Busan	Seoul, Daejeon, Daegu, Busan	~2.5 hours
KTX Seoul ⇄ Gwangju	Seoul, Iksan, Gwangju-Songjeong	~2.5 hours
KTX Seoul ⇄ Gangneung	Seoul, Pyeongchang, Gangneung	~2 hours

How to Buy KTX Tickets

Online: Purchase at the official Korail website or apps like KORAIL Talk. Foreigners can also use global booking platforms like Klook or Rail Ninja.
At Stations: Use ticket machines (English available) or ticket counters.
Mobile: E-tickets via QR code are widely accepted.

💡 Pro Tip: Book tickets in advance during weekends and holidays. Seats can sell out quickly on popular routes like Seoul–Busan.

Using the Korea Rail Pass (KR Pass)

The KR Pass is a rail pass exclusively for foreign tourists, offering unlimited rides on KTX and other Korail trains within the chosen period.

Available for 1, 3, 5, or 7 consecutive days.
Purchase online before your trip and exchange at major stations (Seoul, Busan, Incheon Airport).
Only foreign passport holders are eligible (Korean nationals cannot use it).

Ticket Prices & Seat Types

Seat Type	Example: Seoul ⇄ Busan
Standard Class	~₩59,800 (~$45 USD)
First Class	~₩83,700 (~$63 USD)
KR Pass	Unlimited rides (from ₩121,000 / $91 USD for 2 days)

Travel Tips for Foreign Visitors

🗺 Navigation: Use Naver Map or KakaoMap for real-time train schedules in English. Google Maps is limited in Korea.

🚉 Boarding: Arrive at least 15 minutes early. Trains depart on time, and tickets are non-refundable after departure.
🧳 Luggage: Overhead racks are available. Large suitcases can be stored at the end of each carriage.
🍱 Food & Drinks: Bring your own snacks. Some trains have vending machines but no dining cars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use the KR Pass on subways or buses?
A1: No, the pass is only valid on Korail-operated trains.

Q2: Do I need seat reservations with the KR Pass?
A2: Yes, seat reservations are required but free for pass holders.

Q3: Is Wi-Fi available on KTX?
A3: Yes, free Wi-Fi is available on most routes, but it can be slow.

Q4: Are announcements in English?
A4: Yes, major stations and onboard announcements are made in Korean and English.

Final Tips

✅ Buy the KR Pass before arriving in Korea to save time.

✅ If traveling during holidays, book your tickets early.

✅ Use train travel as a stress-free alternative to domestic flights.

✅ Combine KTX with local buses or taxis for easy access to smaller towns.

KTX High-Speed Train in Korea