Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Overview of Train Types in Busan

Busan has a well-developed train system that includes both local metro trains and intercity trains. Here’s a breakdown:

A. Local Metro Trains

The Busan Metro is the primary mode of public transportation within the city. It consists of 6 lines (Lines 1–4, the Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit, and the Donghae Line) that connect major neighborhoods, tourist attractions, and transportation hubs.

Line 1 (Orange Line): Runs north-south, connecting Nopo (northern Busan) to Dadaepo Beach (southern Busan).
Line 2 (Green Line): Runs east-west, connecting Haeundae Beach to Sasang.
Line 3 (Brown Line): Connects Suyeong to Daejeo.
Line 4 (Blue Line): Covers the northeastern areas, including Minam and Anpyeong.
Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit (BGL): Connects Busan to Gimhae International Airport.
Donghae Line: A commuter rail line connecting Busan to Ulsan and Pohang.

B. Intercity Trains

Busan is a major hub for intercity train travel, with services operated by KORAIL (Korea Railroad Corporation). The main types of intercity trains are:

KTX (Korea Train Express): High-speed trains connecting Busan to Seoul, Daejeon, Daegu, and other cities. Travel time to Seoul is about 2.5–3 hours.
SRT (Super Rapid Train): Another high-speed option, similar to KTX, but departs from Suseo Station in Seoul.
Mugunghwa and ITX-Saemaeul Trains: Slower, more affordable trains for intercity travel.

2. Ticket Costs

A. Local Metro Tickets

Single Journey Ticket: ₩1,400–₩1,800 (depending on distance).
Rechargeable Transportation Cards (e.g., T-money, Cashbee):
- Base fare: ₩1,250 (discounted compared to single tickets).
- Cards can be purchased for ₩2,500–₩4,000 and recharged at convenience stores or ticket machines.
Discounts: Children, students, and seniors receive reduced fares.

B. Intercity Train Tickets

KTX (Busan to Seoul): ₩59,800–₩89,800 (depending on class and time of booking).
SRT (Busan to Seoul): ₩52,000–₩83,700.
Mugunghwa Train: ₩28,000–₩40,000 (Busan to Seoul).
ITX-Saemaeul Train: ₩41,000–₩60,000.

Tip: Book tickets in advance for discounts, especially for KTX and SRT.

3. How to Purchase Tickets

A. Local Metro Tickets

Ticket Machines: Found at all metro stations. Machines support English, Chinese, and Japanese.
- Select your destination.
- Pay with cash or card.
- Collect your single-use ticket or recharge your transportation card.
Transportation Cards: Purchase and recharge at convenience stores (e.g., GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) or at ticket machines.

B. Intercity Train Tickets

Online Booking:
- Visit the KORAIL website (www.letskorail.com) or download the KORAIL app. Both support English.
- For SRT, use the SRT website (etk.srail.co.kr).
At the Station:
- Purchase tickets at ticket counters or self-service machines at Busan Station.
Travel Agencies: Some agencies can assist with booking, especially for tourists.

Note: Foreigners can purchase a KORAIL Pass for unlimited train travel on KORAIL-operated trains for 1–7 days. Prices start at ₩70,000 for a one-day pass.

4. Navigating Train Stations

A. Key Train Stations in Busan

Busan Station (부산역):
- Main hub for KTX, SRT, and intercity trains.
- Located on Metro Line 1.
- Facilities: Ticket counters, convenience stores, restaurants, and waiting areas.
Bujeon Station (부전역):
- Serves the Donghae Line and some intercity trains.
- Located near Seomyeon, a major shopping and entertainment district.
Gimhae Airport Station:
- Connects to the Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit for easy airport access.

B. Tips for Navigating Stations

Signage: All stations have bilingual (Korean and English) signs. Major stations also include Chinese and Japanese.
Arrival Time: Arrive 10–15 minutes early for metro trains and 20–30 minutes early for intercity trains.
Luggage Storage: Coin lockers are available at most stations for ₩2,000–₩6,000, depending on size.
Accessibility: Elevators and escalators are available for those with mobility needs.

5. Cultural Tips for Using Trains

Queueing: Always line up at designated spots on the platform. Allow passengers to exit before boarding.
Quietness: Keep conversations low, especially on intercity trains. Phone calls are discouraged.
Priority Seating: Reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. Avoid using these seats unless eligible.
Eating and Drinking: Allowed on intercity trains but not on metro trains.
T-Money and Cashbee Cards: These cards can also be used for buses, taxis, and some convenience stores, making them a convenient option for travelers.

6. Must-Visit Locations Accessible by Train

A. Local Metro Destinations

Haeundae Beach (Line 2, Haeundae Station):
- Famous for its sandy beach, luxury hotels, and nightlife.
Gamcheon Culture Village (Line 1, Toseong Station):
- A colorful hillside village with art installations and cafes.
Jagalchi Fish Market (Line 1, Jagalchi Station):
- Korea’s largest seafood market.
Beomeosa Temple (Line 1, Beomeosa Station):
- A serene Buddhist temple in the mountains.

B. Intercity Train Destinations

Gyeongju (Donghae Line or KTX):
- Known as “the museum without walls,” Gyeongju is home to ancient tombs, temples, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Seoul (KTX or SRT):
- South Korea’s bustling capital, offering a mix of modernity and tradition.
Daegu (KTX or Mugunghwa):
- A city known for its traditional medicine market and fashion industry.

7. Additional Tips

Apps to Download:
- KakaoMap or Naver Map: For navigation (better than Google Maps in Korea).
- Subway Korea: Provides real-time metro schedules and route planning.
- KORAIL App: For intercity train bookings and schedules.
Language Help: Learn a few basic Korean phrases, though most train staff and ticket machines cater to English-speaking travelers.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to explore Busan and beyond using its efficient train system. Enjoy your journey!