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Public Transportation

South Korea has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including subways, buses, and trains, which are widely used across the country.

Sections

1. Overview of South Korea's Public Transportation System

South Korea's public transportation system is highly developed, interconnected, and reliable. It includes:

  • Subways: Extensive networks in major cities like Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, and Daejeon.
  • Buses: Local, intercity, and express buses connect cities, towns, and rural areas.
  • Trains: Operated by Korail, the train system includes high-speed trains (KTX), ITX (Intercity Trains), and regular trains.
  • Taxis: Widely available and relatively affordable compared to other developed countries.
  • Ferries: Used for travel to islands like Jeju or Ulleungdo.
  • Air Travel: Domestic flights connect major cities and islands.

2. Subways

Key Features

  • Subways are the backbone of urban transportation in cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu.
  • Maps and announcements are available in Korean, English, Chinese, and Japanese.
  • Subways operate from approximately 5:30 AM to midnight.

Costs

  • Base fare: 1,250 KRW to 1,400 KRW (approx. $1 USD) for adults, depending on the city.
  • Additional charges apply for distances over 10 km.
  • Discounts: Children, teenagers, and seniors receive reduced fares.

How to Use

  1. T-Money Card: Purchase a rechargeable transportation card (T-Money, Cashbee, or Hanaro) at convenience stores or subway stations. It can be used for subways, buses, and even taxis.
  2. Tap In and Out: Tap your card on the reader at the turnstile when entering and exiting the subway.
  3. Single-Use Tickets: Available at ticket machines in subway stations. A deposit of 500 KRW is required, which can be refunded after use.

3. Buses

Types of Buses

  • Local Buses: Operate within cities and towns.
  • Intercity Buses: Connect smaller cities and towns.
  • Express Buses: Faster and more comfortable, connecting major cities.
  • Airport Limousine Buses: Provide direct service to and from airports.

Costs

  • Local buses: 1,200–1,800 KRW (varies by city and type of bus).
  • Intercity buses: 5,000–30,000 KRW, depending on distance and class.
  • Express buses: 10,000–40,000 KRW, depending on the route and seat type.

How to Use

  1. T-Money Card: Tap your card when boarding and alighting.
  2. Cash Payment: Exact change is required if paying in cash.
  3. Bus Stops: Check the route number and destination at the bus stop. Bus stops often have digital displays showing arrival times.

4. Trains

Types of Trains

  • KTX (Korea Train Express): High-speed trains connecting major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Gwangju.
  • ITX and Mugunghwa: Slower but more affordable options for intercity travel.
  • SRT (Super Rapid Train): Another high-speed train option, operating on select routes.

Costs

  • KTX: 30,000–60,000 KRW for a one-way trip, depending on distance.
  • ITX/Mugunghwa: 10,000–30,000 KRW, depending on the route.

How to Use

  1. Booking Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online (Korail website or app), at ticket counters, or through ticket machines.
  2. Seat Reservations: Required for KTX and ITX trains. Mugunghwa trains may have unreserved seating.
  3. T-Money Card: Can be used for some commuter trains but not for long-distance travel.

5. Taxis

Types of Taxis

  • Standard Taxis: Affordable and widely available.
  • Deluxe Taxis (Mobeom): More spacious and comfortable, but more expensive.
  • International Taxis: Drivers speak English, Chinese, or Japanese (available in Seoul).
  • Ride-Hailing Apps: Kakao T is the most popular app for booking taxis.

Costs

  • Base fare: 4,000 KRW in Seoul (slightly lower in other cities).
  • Night surcharge: 20–40% higher between midnight and 4:00 AM.

How to Use

  • Hail a taxi on the street or use the Kakao T app.
  • Payment: Cash, credit card, or T-Money card.

6. Ferries

Ferries are used to travel to islands like Jeju, Ulleungdo, and Dokdo. Tickets can be booked online or at ferry terminals. Prices vary depending on the destination and class of service.

7. Air Travel

Domestic flights are common for long-distance travel, especially to Jeju Island. Major airlines include Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, and budget carriers like Jeju Air and T’way Air. Flights are affordable, with one-way tickets often costing 50,000–100,000 KRW.

8. Regulations and Etiquette

General Rules

  • No eating or drinking on subways and buses.
  • Priority seats are reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.
  • Keep noise levels low (e.g., phone calls are discouraged on public transit).

Cultural Tips

  • Queueing: Always line up when waiting for subways or buses.
  • Giving Up Seats: Offer your seat to elderly passengers or those in need.
  • Escalator Etiquette: Stand on the right side; the left side is for walking (in most cities).
  • T-Money Card: Keep it topped up to avoid delays.

9. Practical Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  1. Download Apps:
    • KakaoMap or Naver Map: For navigation and public transit routes.
    • Subway Korea: For subway maps and schedules.
    • Kakao T: For taxi bookings.
  2. Language Barrier: Most signs and announcements are in English, but learning basic Korean phrases can be helpful.
  3. Lost Items: Contact the Lost and Found office of the relevant transit authority.
  4. Travel Passes: Consider purchasing a Korea Tour Card or Metropolitan Pass for unlimited travel in certain areas.

10. Conclusion

South Korea’s public transportation system is a model of efficiency and convenience. By familiarizing yourself with the basics of subways, buses, trains, and taxis, you can travel seamlessly across the country. Remember to respect local customs and regulations to ensure a pleasant experience for yourself and others.