Busan

๐ŸŽซ

Ticketing

Guidance on purchasing tickets for different modes of transportation across Busan.

Sections

1. Ticket Types and Payment Methods

Busanโ€™s public transportation system primarily uses a rechargeable smart card system, but single-use tickets are also available. Here are the main options:

A. Single-Use Tickets

  • Subway: You can purchase single-use tickets at ticket vending machines located in subway stations. These tickets are valid for one trip and include a refundable deposit of 500 KRW, which you can reclaim at deposit refund machines after your trip.
  • Buses: You can pay for a single ride in cash when boarding a bus, but exact change is required. Cash fares are slightly higher than card fares.

B. Transportation Cards

The most convenient way to pay for public transportation in Busan is by using a rechargeable transportation card. These cards can be used on subways, buses, and even taxis.

  • Types of Cards:
    • Cashbee Card: Widely used in Busan and compatible with subways, buses, and some convenience stores.
    • T-money Card: A national transportation card that works in Busan and other cities in South Korea, including Seoul.
  • Benefits:
    • Lower fares compared to cash payments.
    • Free transfers between buses and subways within a set time limit (30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the time of day).
    • Convenience of not needing exact change.

2. Fares

Subway Fares (as of 2023)

  • Base Fare: 1,400 KRW for adults using a transportation card (1,500 KRW for cash or single-use tickets).
  • Distance-Based Fare: Additional charges apply for longer distances.
  • Discounted Fares:
    • Teenagers (13โ€“18 years): 1,000 KRW with a transportation card.
    • Children (6โ€“12 years): 600 KRW with a transportation card.
    • Free for children under 6 years old when accompanied by an adult.

Bus Fares

  • Local Buses:
    • Adults: 1,200 KRW with a transportation card (1,300 KRW for cash).
    • Teenagers: 850 KRW with a transportation card.
    • Children: 400 KRW with a transportation card.
  • Express Buses (longer routes): Slightly higher fares, typically starting at 1,800 KRW for adults.
  • Discounts: Similar to subway discounts for teenagers and children.

Transfers

  • Free transfers are allowed between buses and subways (or between buses) within a set time limit if you use a transportation card. Transfers are not available for cash or single-use ticket users.

3. How to Purchase or Top Up Cards

Purchasing a Transportation Card

  • Where to Buy:
    • Convenience stores (e.g., GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) throughout Busan.
    • Ticket vending machines in subway stations.
  • Cost: The card itself typically costs 2,500โ€“4,000 KRW, and you can load it with any amount of credit.

Topping Up a Card

  • At Subway Stations: Use the ticket vending machines to add credit to your card. Machines have English-language options for ease of use.
  • At Convenience Stores: Ask the cashier to top up your card. Specify the amount you want to add (e.g., 10,000 KRW).
  • Minimum Top-Up Amount: Usually 1,000 KRW.

4. Tourist Passes and Discounts

Busan offers special transportation passes and discounts for tourists, which can save you money and simplify travel.

A. Korea Tour Card

  • A version of the T-money card designed for tourists.
  • Offers the same benefits as a regular T-money card, plus discounts at tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops.
  • Available at major transportation hubs, convenience stores, and online.

B. Busan One-Day Pass

  • Unlimited subway rides for one day.
  • Cost: 5,000 KRW.
  • Ideal for tourists planning to visit multiple attractions in a single day.
  • Purchase at subway station ticket counters or vending machines.

C. KORAIL Pass

  • If you plan to travel beyond Busan, consider the KORAIL Pass for unlimited train travel on the national rail network, including KTX high-speed trains.

5. Important Tips and Considerations

A. Using the Subway

  • Busanโ€™s subway system has four main lines (Lines 1โ€“4) and is easy to navigate with English signage.
  • Subway stations are equipped with ticket vending machines that support multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Japanese.
  • Peak hours (7:00โ€“9:00 AM and 6:00โ€“8:00 PM) can be crowded, so plan accordingly.

B. Using Buses

  • Buses are color-coded:
    • Blue Buses: Long-distance routes connecting major areas.
    • Green Buses: Shorter routes within neighborhoods.
    • Red Buses: Express routes to suburban areas.
  • Enter through the front door and exit through the rear door. Tap your transportation card on the reader when boarding and exiting.

C. Refunds for Unused Card Balance

  • If you leave Busan or South Korea, you can get a refund for the remaining balance on your transportation card (minus a small fee). Refunds are available at subway station service centers or convenience stores.

D. Accessibility

  • Busanโ€™s public transportation system is generally accessible, with elevators and escalators in most subway stations. Priority seating is available for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.

E. Etiquette

  • Stand on the right side of escalators to allow others to pass on the left.
  • Offer your seat to elderly passengers or those with disabilities.
  • Keep noise levels low and avoid eating or drinking on public transportation.

6. Useful Apps and Resources

  • KakaoMap: A highly detailed navigation app for South Korea, available in English.
  • Subway Korea: Provides real-time subway information and route planning.
  • KakaoBus: Offers bus schedules and live tracking.
  • Visit Korea App: Includes tourist information and transportation tips.

By using a transportation card and taking advantage of tourist passes, you can travel around Busan conveniently and affordably. Enjoy your time exploring this vibrant coastal city!