 | Subway & Bus Guide for Tourists){kind=link}
Visiting Korea? Navigating the country's fast and interconnected public transit system can seem overwhelming—especially if it's your first time or you haven't been back in years. Korea's subway and bus networks are world-renowned for punctuality, convenience, and coverage. With just a few tips and the right apps, anyone can ride like a local. Here's everything a US traveler needs for a smooth trip in 2025!
📋 Table of Contents
1. How to Use the Seoul Subway System (with Apps)
1.1 Seoul Metro Line System
Seoul Metro has lines 1–9, each color-coded for easy identification:
- Line 1: Dark Blue
- Line 2: Green (Circle Line)
- Line 3: Orange
- Line 4: Light Blue
- Lines 5-9: Each with distinct colors
1.2 Essential Apps for Navigation
To plan your route, download these English-friendly apps:
- Subway Korea: Real-time directions and station info
- KakaoMap: Comprehensive navigation with transfer instructions
- Naver Map: Schedule updates and route planning
💡 Pro Tip
Subway apps offer door-to-door navigation and transfer instructions. All announcements and signs are available in Korean, English, Chinese, and Japanese.
1.3 How to Use the System
- Enter stations and platforms using your T-Money card or mobile transit card
- Check train arrival info on large electronic boards
- Follow color-coded line maps and station signs
- Use apps for real-time updates and platform directions
2. T-Money Card & Transportation Passes
What is T-Money Card?
T-Money Card is the universal transit payment card used in subways, buses, and some taxis across Korea.
2.1 How to Get and Use T-Money Card
2.2 Benefits of Using T-Money Card
- The card is reusable and works in most major cities including Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Gwangju
- Unlocks transfer discounts between different transportation modes
- Much easier for foreigners than handling cash for each ride
3. Long-Distance Buses vs Local Buses
3.1 Local Buses (within Seoul & metro area)
BLUEBlue Buses (100–999)
Connect outer and downtown districts
GREENGreen Buses (1000–9999)
Connect neighborhoods and interface with subways
YELLOWYellow Buses (01–09)
Circulate within key city areas/districts
REDIntercity/Red Buses (9000–9999)
Link Seoul and surrounding metro cities; reserved seating
VILLAGEVillage Buses
Short routes in residential areas; also green but have specific numbering
3.2 Bus Information & Apps
- All buses have digital boards and bus-stop displays showing real-time arrivals
- Download KakaoBus, Naver Map, or check TOPIS for schedules and live bus locations
- Some rural areas use local variations; ask staff or use the app
💡 Bus Number System Tip
Bus numbers indicate route origin. For example, 3xxx means the route starts in Gangdong or Songpa District.
4. Navigating Transfers for Non-Korean Speakers
4.1 Seamless Transfer System
Transfers between bus and subway are seamless with T-Money (or Cashbee) card and integrated transfer system.
Transfer Benefits:
- Max 4 free transfers within 45 minutes (extended to 60 minutes at night)
- Bonus discounts apply to different transport types (not re-boarding the same bus line)
- Simple process: Just tag your card when boarding and exiting
4.2 How to Transfer
- Tag card when boarding any bus or at subway gates
- Tag card again when exiting
- Route and transfer instructions appear in apps and at stations—available in English
- Follow your app's guidance for platform changes and connections
4.3 Travel Etiquette & Tips
- Avoid peak rush hours (7–9AM, 5–7PM) for a more comfortable experience
- Be courteous: Use headphones for video/music
- Give up priority seats to seniors or pregnant passengers
- Most apps support English; simply change your language settings
5. Downloadable Subway Map Resources
📍 Official Map Resource
For the most up-to-date metro map (2025, including new lines/extensions), visit:
Official Seoul Metro Line Map
This resource includes all the latest line extensions and station updates for 2025.
5.1 Additional Map Resources
- Download offline maps through subway apps before traveling
- Station maps are available in multiple languages at all major stations
- Tourist information centers provide printed English maps
6. Quick Tips & FAQ
6.1 Essential Quick Tips
🎯 Quick Reference Checklist
- ✅ Get your T-Money card at any convenience store or subway station
- ✅ Recharge easily at stores or subway kiosks—cash only
- ✅ Use KakaoMap, Naver Map, Subway Korea, and KakaoBus apps (in English)
- ✅ Transit cards work in most Korean cities—no need for different cards
- ✅ Airport transfers: Use Incheon Airport AREX trains, airport limousine buses, or city metro
- ✅ Check TOPIS system or apps for real-time bus locations and route changes
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| Public Transportation in Korea (2025) |
6.2 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where to get a transport card?
A: At convenience stores (GS25, 7-Eleven, CU) or subway stations.
Q: Do apps work in English?
A: Yes! Major apps offer English menus and navigation.
Q: Are transfers easy for foreigners?
A: Yes—just use T-Money and follow signs or your app's route instructions.
Q: Can I use one card across cities?
A: Yes, most cities accept T-Money/Cashbee cards.
Q: How to check for service changes?
A: Use Seoul TOPIS or city transit apps for updates.
🚀 Ready to Explore Korea!
With this guide and today's technology, you'll master Korea's subway and bus system—making travel cheap, fast, and fun! The combination of T-Money card, English-friendly apps, and Korea's excellent public transit infrastructure means you can navigate like a local from day one.
Safe travels!