Global Major Cities Guide

The primary public transportation option in Jeonju, with extensive local and intercity routes.

Sections

1. Overview of the Bus System in Jeonju

Jeonju’s bus system is well-organized and designed to connect the city’s neighborhoods, major attractions, and surrounding areas. It is the primary mode of public transportation for locals and visitors alike. The buses are color-coded and numbered, making it relatively easy to navigate once you understand the system.

Types of Buses:
- Local Buses: These operate within Jeonju city and are the most commonly used by visitors.
- Intercity Buses: These connect Jeonju to nearby cities and towns.
- Express Buses: These are for longer distances and are not part of the local bus system.

2. How the System Works

Routes and Stops:
- Jeonju’s buses operate on fixed routes with clearly marked stops. Most stops have signs in both Korean and English, especially near tourist areas.
- Major bus stops are located near key attractions like Jeonju Hanok Village, Jeonju Zoo, Deokjin Park, and Jeonju National Museum.
- Buses are numbered, and each number corresponds to a specific route. For example, Bus 79 is a popular route that stops near Jeonju Hanok Village.
Schedules:
- Buses generally run from 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM, though exact times vary by route.
- Frequency ranges from every 10-20 minutes during peak hours to every 30-40 minutes during off-peak times.
Language Support:
- While most bus drivers speak only Korean, the bus routes and stops are often displayed in both Korean and English on digital screens inside the buses.

3. Costs and Payment Methods

Fares:
- Adults: 1,400 KRW (approx. $1.05 USD) for a single ride.
- Teenagers: 1,100 KRW.
- Children: 600 KRW.
- Transfers: Free transfers are available within 30 minutes of disembarking, provided you use a transportation card.
Payment Methods:
- Cash: You can pay in cash, but you must have the exact fare as drivers do not provide change.
- T-Money Card: This rechargeable transportation card is the most convenient way to pay. It can be purchased and reloaded at convenience stores like GS25, CU, or 7-Eleven.
  - Using a T-Money Card often provides a small discount on fares.
  - The card can also be used on buses, subways, and taxis across South Korea.

4. Tips for Using Public Buses in Jeonju

Plan Your Route: Use apps like KakaoMap or Naver Map (both available in English) to check bus routes, schedules, and stops. These apps provide real-time bus tracking and estimated arrival times.
Boarding and Exiting:
- Enter through the front door and exit through the rear door.
- Tap your T-Money Card on the reader when boarding and again when exiting to ensure proper fare calculation.
Seating: Priority seats are reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. Be mindful of these cultural norms.
Bus Etiquette:
- Keep your voice low when talking.
- Avoid eating or drinking on the bus.
- Offer your seat to someone in need if the bus is crowded.

5. Proximity to Major Local Sites

Jeonju’s bus system is well-connected to its key attractions. Here are some popular routes and stops:

Jeonju Hanok Village:
- Buses: 79, 119, 535
- Stop: Jeonju Hanok Village (전주한옥마을)
- Tip: This is one of the most visited areas, so buses to and from this stop can get crowded, especially on weekends.
Deokjin Park:
- Buses: 100, 190
- Stop: Deokjin Park (덕진공원)
- Tip: Visit in spring to see the lotus flowers in bloom.
Jeonju Zoo:
- Buses: 72, 79
- Stop: Jeonju Zoo (전주동물원)
Jeonju National Museum:
- Buses: 5-1, 79
- Stop: Jeonju National Museum (전주국립박물관)
Nambu Market:
- Buses: 79, 119
- Stop: Nambu Market (남부시장)
- Tip: This market is famous for its night market and street food.

6. Cultural Considerations

Language Barrier: While Jeonju is a tourist-friendly city, English is not widely spoken outside major attractions. Learning a few basic Korean phrases or using a translation app can be helpful.
- Example: “이 버스는 한옥마을에 가나요?” (Does this bus go to Hanok Village?)
Respect for Elders: South Korea places a strong emphasis on respecting elders. If an older person boards the bus and there are no seats available, it is customary to offer your seat.
Punctuality: Buses in Jeonju are generally punctual, so arrive at the stop a few minutes early to avoid missing your ride.

7. Additional Resources

Tourist Information Centers: Located near Jeonju Hanok Village and Jeonju Station, these centers can provide maps, bus schedules, and assistance in English.
Kakao T: This app can also be used to call a taxi if buses are unavailable or inconvenient for your route.

8. Final Tips

If you’re staying in Jeonju for a few days, consider purchasing a T-Money Card for convenience and savings.
Avoid traveling during rush hours (7:30-9:00 AM and 5:30-7:00 PM) if possible, as buses can get crowded.
Always double-check the bus number and destination before boarding, as some routes may have similar numbers but different destinations.

By following this guide, you’ll find Jeonju’s bus system to be an affordable and efficient way to explore the city’s rich cultural and historical offerings. Enjoy your visit!