Gwangju

1. Overview of the Bus System in Gwangju

Gwangju’s bus system is extensive, connecting all parts of the city and surrounding areas. It consists of city buses (시내버스) and intercity buses (시외버스). For most visitors and immigrants, the city buses will be the primary focus.

• Types of City Buses:
  • General Buses (일반버스): These are the most common buses, serving local routes within the city.
  • Express Buses (좌석버스): These buses have fewer stops and are faster, often connecting major areas or suburbs.
  • Village Buses (마을버스): Smaller buses that operate in specific neighborhoods or areas not covered by larger buses.

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2. Bus Routes and Navigation

• Route Numbers and Colors:

  • Bus routes are numbered, and the numbers often indicate the general area or direction of the route.
  • Buses are color-coded to help identify their purpose:
    • Blue Buses: Main routes connecting major areas.
    • Green Buses: Local routes within neighborhoods.
    • Red Buses: Express routes connecting Gwangju to nearby cities or suburbs.

• Finding Bus Routes:

  • Use apps like KakaoMap or Naver Map (both available in English) to search for bus routes, stops, and schedules. These apps provide real-time bus tracking and estimated arrival times.
  • Bus stops are clearly marked with route numbers and maps. Major stops often have digital displays showing arrival times.

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3. Fares and Ticketing

• Fare Structure:

  • Adults: 1,250 KRW (cash) or 1,200 KRW (with a transportation card).
  • Teenagers: 850 KRW (cash) or 800 KRW (with a transportation card).
  • Children: 500 KRW (cash) or 450 KRW (with a transportation card).
  • Express buses may have slightly higher fares, depending on the distance.

• Payment Methods:

  • Cash: Pay directly into the fare box near the driver. Exact change is required as no change is given.
  • Transportation Cards: The most convenient option. Use a T-money card or Cashbee card, which can be purchased and recharged at convenience stores (e.g., GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) or subway stations.
    • Simply tap your card on the reader when boarding and again when alighting to ensure the correct fare is deducted.

• Transfers:

  • Free transfers are available between buses or between buses and the subway within 30 minutes of alighting, provided you use a transportation card.

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4. Timetable and Frequency

• Operating Hours:

  • Most buses operate from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM, though some routes may start earlier or end later.
  • Night buses (심야버스) are available on select routes for late-night travel.

• Frequency:

  • Buses generally run every 10–20 minutes during peak hours and every 20–30 minutes during off-peak hours.
  • Real-time bus arrival information is available on apps like KakaoMap or at digital displays at major bus stops.

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5. Tips for Non-Korean Speakers

• Language Barriers:

  • While most bus drivers may not speak English, the bus system is user-friendly for non-Korean speakers.
  • Bus route maps and apps like KakaoMap and Naver Map are available in English, making it easy to plan your journey.
  • Bus stop announcements are made in both Korean and English on most buses.

• Key Phrases:

  • If you need assistance, you can say:
    • "이 버스 ○○에 가나요?" (Does this bus go to [destination]?)
    • "다음 정류장은 어디인가요?" (What is the next stop?)
  • Alternatively, show the name of your destination in Korean to the driver or a fellow passenger.

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6. Cultural Practices and Etiquette

• Boarding and Alighting:

  • Enter through the front door and exit through the rear door.
  • Tap your transportation card or pay the fare immediately upon boarding.

• Seating:

  • Priority seats (designated for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities) are located near the front. Avoid sitting here unless you qualify.
  • If the bus is crowded, offer your seat to someone who may need it more.

• Behavior:

  • Keep your voice low when talking on the phone or with companions.
  • Eating and drinking on the bus are discouraged.
  • Stand behind the yellow line near the driver for safety when the bus is moving.

• Queuing:

  • Form a line at the bus stop and wait for passengers to alight before boarding.

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7. Additional Considerations

• Weather and Crowds:

  • Buses can get crowded during rush hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM). Plan your travel accordingly.
  • During rainy or snowy weather, buses may run slightly behind schedule.

• Accessibility:

  • Many buses in Gwangju are equipped with low floors and ramps for wheelchair users. Priority seating is also available for those with mobility challenges.

• Lost and Found:

  • If you leave something on the bus, contact the Gwangju Bus Terminal or the bus company directly. Alternatively, ask for assistance at a nearby police station.

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8. Exploring Gwangju by Bus

Buses are an excellent way to explore Gwangju’s attractions, such as:

• May 18th National Cemetery (5·18 국립묘지): Accessible by local buses.
• Gwangju Biennale Exhibition Hall (광주비엔날레): Served by several routes.
• Mudeungsan National Park (무등산): Take a bus to the base of the mountain for hiking.
• Chungjang-ro Street (충장로): A popular shopping and cultural area, easily reachable by bus.

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9. Emergency and Support

• Emergency Numbers:

  • Police: 112
  • Fire/Ambulance: 119
  • Tourist Hotline: 1330 (available in multiple languages, including English).

• Tourist Information Centers:

  • Located at major transportation hubs and tourist sites. Staff can assist with bus routes and other travel inquiries.

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By following this guide, you’ll find it easy to navigate Gwangju’s bus system and enjoy the city’s vibrant culture and attractions. Safe travels!