Daejeon

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Transportation

Sections

1. Types of Public Transportation in Daejeon

A. Buses

Buses are the most widely used form of public transportation in Daejeon, with an extensive network connecting all parts of the city and surrounding areas.

  • Types of Buses:

    • Blue Buses (Main Lines): These buses operate on major routes and connect key areas, including downtown, residential neighborhoods, and transportation hubs.
    • Green Buses (Branch Lines): These serve shorter routes and connect residential areas to main bus lines or subway stations.
    • Red Buses (Intercity/Express): These buses connect Daejeon to nearby cities and regions.
    • Village Buses (Maeul Buses): Smaller buses that operate within specific neighborhoods.

  • Costs:

    • Adults: KRW 1,400 (cash) or KRW 1,250 (with a transportation card)
    • Teenagers: KRW 1,000 (cash) or KRW 850 (with a transportation card)
    • Children: KRW 500 (cash) or KRW 450 (with a transportation card)

  • Operating Hours: Typically from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM, though some routes may vary.

B. Subway

Daejeon has a single subway line (Daejeon Metro Line 1) that runs from Banseok Station in the northeast to Panam Station in the southeast.

  • Key Features:

    • Covers 22 stations and spans approximately 22.6 kilometers.
    • Connects major areas such as Daejeon Station (KTX), government complexes, and universities.

  • Costs:

    • Adults: KRW 1,400 (cash) or KRW 1,250 (with a transportation card)
    • Teenagers: KRW 1,000 (cash) or KRW 850 (with a transportation card)
    • Children: KRW 500 (cash) or KRW 450 (with a transportation card)

  • Operating Hours: 5:30 AM to 12:00 AM (midnight).

C. Taxis

Taxis are widely available and relatively affordable compared to other countries.

  • Base Fare: KRW 3,800 for the first 2 kilometers, with additional charges of KRW 100 per 133 meters.

  • Late-Night Surcharge: A 20% surcharge applies between midnight and 4:00 AM.

  • Types of Taxis:

    • Regular Taxis: Standard service.
    • Deluxe Taxis (Mobeom): Higher fare but more spacious and comfortable.

  • Tips for Use:

    • Taxis can be hailed on the street, found at taxi stands, or booked via apps like Kakao T (available in English).

D. Intercity and Express Buses

For travel outside Daejeon, intercity and express buses operate from the Daejeon Central Bus Terminal and other smaller terminals. These buses connect Daejeon to major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu.

  • Costs: Vary depending on the destination and type of bus (standard or premium).
  • Booking: Tickets can be purchased at terminals or online through platforms like Kobus or Bustago.

E. KTX (Korea Train Express) and SRT

Daejeon is a major hub for South Koreaโ€™s high-speed rail system, with Daejeon Station serving as a stop for both KTX and SRT trains.

  • Travel Times:
    • Seoul: ~50 minutes
    • Busan: ~90 minutes
  • Costs: Vary by destination and class (economy or first class).
  • Booking: Tickets can be purchased at the station, online, or via the Korail app.

2. Payment Options

A. Transportation Cards

Using a transportation card is the most convenient and cost-effective way to pay for public transportation in Daejeon.

  • Types of Cards:
    • T-money Card: Usable across South Korea for buses, subways, and taxis.
    • Hanaro Card: A local card specific to Daejeon.
  • Where to Buy:
    • Convenience stores (e.g., GS25, CU, 7-Eleven).
    • Subway stations.
  • How to Use:
    • Tap the card on the reader when boarding and alighting buses or entering/exiting subway stations.
    • Cards can also be used for small purchases at convenience stores.

B. Cash

Cash is accepted on buses and for taxi rides, but it is less convenient as exact change is often required.

3. Navigating the System

A. Apps and Tools

  • KakaoMap: Provides detailed navigation for buses, subways, and walking routes. Available in English.
  • Naver Map: Another popular navigation app with English support.
  • Kakao T: For booking taxis and checking public transportation schedules.
  • Daejeon Metro App: Offers real-time subway information.

B. Signage and Announcements

  • Most public transportation in Daejeon has bilingual signage (Korean and English).
  • Subway and bus announcements are made in both Korean and English.

C. Transfers

  • Free transfers are available between buses and the subway within a 30-minute window when using a transportation card.

4. Cultural Considerations

  • Queueing: Always line up when waiting for buses or subways. Itโ€™s considered polite and orderly.
  • Priority Seating: Reserved seats for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities are strictly observed.
  • Quietness: Public transportation is generally quiet. Avoid loud conversations or phone calls.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not customary in South Korea, including for taxi drivers.

5. Local Sites and Transportation Tips

  • Yuseong Hot Springs: Accessible via buses or taxis. A popular spot for relaxation.
  • Daejeon Expo Science Park: Take the subway to Government Complex Daejeon Station and transfer to a bus or taxi.
  • KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology): Easily reachable by bus or taxi.
  • Daejeon O-World: A family-friendly amusement park accessible by bus.

6. Accessibility

  • Most subway stations and buses are equipped with facilities for people with disabilities, including elevators, ramps, and designated seating.
  • Taxis with wheelchair access can be booked in advance through local services.

By understanding the transportation options and cultural norms, youโ€™ll find it easy to navigate Daejeon and enjoy all the city has to offer. Let me know if you need further assistance!