Daegu

1. Types of Public Transportation in Daegu

Daegu’s public transportation system consists of subways, buses, and taxis, with subways and buses being the most commonly used by locals and tourists.

A. Subway

• Overview: Daegu has a modern and clean subway system with 3 main lines:
  • Line 1 (Red Line): Runs east-west, connecting key areas like Daegu Station, Banwoldang, and Dongdaegu Station.
  • Line 2 (Green Line): Runs east-west but covers different areas, including Banwoldang and Daegu Grand Park.
  • Line 3 (Yellow Line): A monorail line running north-south, offering scenic views of the city.
• Accessibility: Stations are equipped with escalators, elevators, and signage in Korean, English, Chinese, and Japanese.

B. Buses

• Overview: Daegu’s bus system is extensive, connecting areas not covered by the subway. There are several types of buses:
  • Blue Buses: Long-distance routes connecting major areas.
  • Red Buses: Express buses with fewer stops.
  • Green Buses: Local routes within neighborhoods.
  • Yellow Buses: Circular routes within specific districts.
• Bus Stops: Clearly marked with route maps and schedules, often in both Korean and English.

C. Taxis

• Overview: Taxis are widely available and relatively affordable compared to other countries. They are a good option for late-night travel or areas not served by public transport.
• Types:
  • Regular Taxis: Standard service.
  • Deluxe Taxis (Mobeom Taxi): More spacious and comfortable but more expensive.
  • Call Taxis: Can be booked via apps like Kakao T.

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2. Costs and Fares

A. Subway Fares

• Base Fare: 1,400 KRW (approx. $1.05 USD) for adults using a transportation card.
• Cash Fare: 1,500 KRW (slightly higher than card fare).
• Discounts:
  • Children (6-12 years): 600 KRW.
  • Teenagers (13-18 years): 1,100 KRW.
  • Free rides for seniors (65+) and disabled individuals with proper ID.
• Transfers: Free transfers between subway lines and buses within 30 minutes of tapping out.

B. Bus Fares

• Base Fare:
  • Blue/Red Buses: 1,400 KRW (card) or 1,500 KRW (cash).
  • Green/Yellow Buses: 1,200 KRW (card) or 1,300 KRW (cash).
• Discounts: Same as subway discounts for children, teenagers, and seniors.
• Transfers: Free transfers between buses and subways within 30 minutes.

C. Taxi Fares

• Base Fare: 3,800 KRW for the first 2 kilometers.
• Additional Charges: 100 KRW per 132 meters or 31 seconds of waiting.
• Night Surcharge: 20% increase between midnight and 4:00 AM.

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3. Payment Methods

A. Transportation Cards

• T-money Card: A rechargeable smart card used for subways, buses, and even taxis. It offers discounted fares and free transfers.
  • Where to Buy: Convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) or subway stations.
  • Cost: 2,500 KRW for the card itself, plus the amount you load onto it.
  • How to Use: Tap the card on the reader when entering and exiting subways or buses.
• Cashbee Card: Another option similar to T-money, also widely accepted.

B. Mobile Payment

• Apps like KakaoPay and Samsung Pay can be linked to T-money for seamless payment.

C. Cash

• Cash is accepted on buses and taxis, but exact change is required for buses. Using a transportation card is more convenient.

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4. Procedures for Accessing Services

A. Subway

1. Purchase a T-money card or single-use ticket at a ticket machine.
2. Tap your card or ticket at the turnstile to enter.
3. Follow the signs (in multiple languages) to your platform.
4. Tap out at your destination station.

B. Bus

1. Check the route number and destination at the bus stop.
2. Board through the front door and tap your T-money card on the reader.
3. Exit through the rear door and tap your card again if transferring.

C. Taxi

1. Hail a taxi on the street or use the Kakao T app to book one.
2. Pay with cash, card, or T-money at the end of the ride.

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5. Schedules and Operating Hours

A. Subway

• Operating Hours: 5:30 AM to midnight.
• Frequency:
  • Peak Hours: Every 5-7 minutes.
  • Off-Peak Hours: Every 8-10 minutes.

B. Buses

• Operating Hours: 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM (varies by route).
• Frequency: Every 10-20 minutes, depending on the route.

C. Taxis

• Available 24/7, though it may be harder to find one during peak hours or in remote areas.

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6. Tips for Tourists

1. Download Navigation Apps:

   • Use apps like KakaoMap or Naver Map for real-time navigation. These apps provide detailed directions in English and other languages.
   • Google Maps is less reliable in South Korea.

2. Plan for Peak Hours:

   • Subways and buses can get crowded during rush hours (7:00-9:00 AM and 6:00-8:00 PM). Avoid these times if possible.

3. Learn Basic Korean Phrases:

   • While signage is in English, knowing phrases like "이 버스는 어디로 가요?" ("Where does this bus go?") can be helpful.

4. Be Mindful of Subway Etiquette:

   • Stand on the right side of escalators to let others pass on the left.
   • Offer your seat to elderly, pregnant, or disabled passengers.

5. Use Free Wi-Fi:

   • Free Wi-Fi is available in subway stations and on some buses. Look for networks like "Daegu_Free_WiFi."

6. Keep Your T-money Card Loaded:

   • Reload your card at convenience stores or subway stations to avoid delays.

7. Explore the Monorail (Line 3):

   • The elevated monorail offers great views of Daegu’s skyline and is a unique experience.

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7. Cultural Considerations

• Quiet Atmosphere: Public transport in South Korea is generally quiet. Avoid loud conversations or phone calls.
• Queueing: Always line up at designated spots on subway platforms and bus stops.
• Respect Personal Space: While public transport can get crowded, try to avoid pushing or standing too close to others.
• No Eating or Drinking: Eating and drinking are not allowed on subways and buses.

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By following this guide, you’ll be able to navigate Daegu’s public transportation system with ease and confidence. Enjoy your time in this vibrant city!