Global Major Cities Guide

Jeonju is served by South Korea's national rail operator, Korail, which offers several types of trains:

KTX (Korea Train Express): High-speed trains that connect Jeonju to major cities like Seoul and Busan. These are the fastest and most comfortable option.
ITX-Saemaeul: A slightly slower but still comfortable intercity train. It is more affordable than the KTX and offers a good balance of speed and cost.
Mugunghwa: The slowest and most affordable train option. These trains are older and less luxurious but are a budget-friendly choice for travelers.

Ticket prices vary depending on the train type, distance, and class of service. Below are approximate one-way fares for popular routes to Jeonju:

Seoul to Jeonju:
- KTX: ₩30,000–₩35,000 (approx. $22–$26 USD)
- ITX-Saemaeul: ₩20,000–₩25,000 (approx. $15–$19 USD)
- Mugunghwa: ₩15,000–₩20,000 (approx. $11–$15 USD)
Busan to Jeonju:
- KTX: ₩40,000–₩50,000 (approx. $30–$37 USD)
- ITX-Saemaeul: ₩30,000–₩35,000 (approx. $22–$26 USD)
- Mugunghwa: ₩20,000–₩25,000 (approx. $15–$19 USD)

Discounts:

Children (ages 4–12) typically receive a 50% discount.
Seniors (ages 65+) and groups may also qualify for discounts.
Korail offers a Korail Pass for foreign tourists, which provides unlimited train travel for a set number of days.

You can book train tickets for Jeonju in several ways:

Online: Visit the official Korail website (www.letskorail.com) or use the Korail Talk app. Both platforms support English and other languages.
At the Station: Purchase tickets at ticket counters or self-service kiosks at any major train station.
Travel Agencies: Some travel agencies in South Korea can assist with booking train tickets.
Mobile Apps: Use apps like Korail Talk or Kakao T for convenient booking.

Tips:

Book KTX tickets in advance, especially during weekends, holidays, and peak travel seasons (e.g., Chuseok, Lunar New Year).
If you’re traveling with luggage, reserve a seat with extra space (e.g., near the luggage racks).

KTX: Trains from Seoul to Jeonju run approximately every 1–2 hours, with a travel time of about 1 hour 30 minutes.
ITX-Saemaeul and Mugunghwa: These trains run less frequently and take 2–3 hours from Seoul to Jeonju.
First and Last Trains:
- From Seoul to Jeonju: First train departs around 5:30 AM; last train departs around 10:00 PM.
- From Jeonju to Seoul: First train departs around 5:00 AM; last train departs around 9:30 PM.

Check the Korail website or app for the most up-to-date schedules.

Jeonju Station:
- Location: 1, Hyoja-ro, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do.
- Facilities: Ticket counters, convenience stores, restrooms, waiting areas, and taxi stands.
- Accessibility: The station is well-connected to the city center via buses and taxis.

Jeonju Station is a gateway to many of the city’s top attractions:

Jeonju Hanok Village (Approx. 20 minutes by taxi or bus): A must-visit for its traditional Korean houses, street food, and cultural experiences.
Jeonju National Museum (Approx. 15 minutes by taxi): Showcasing artifacts from Korea’s history.
Deokjin Park (Approx. 10 minutes by taxi): A serene park with a lotus pond, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Nambu Market (Approx. 20 minutes by taxi or bus): A bustling traditional market with local food and crafts.

Punctuality: Trains in South Korea are extremely punctual. Arrive at the station at least 10–15 minutes before departure.
Language: Most train station signs and announcements are in Korean and English. Staff at major stations often speak basic English.
Luggage: KTX trains have designated luggage storage areas. For ITX-Saemaeul and Mugunghwa trains, space may be more limited.
Food and Drinks: Eating is allowed on trains, and convenience stores at stations sell snacks and drinks. KTX trains also have vending machines.
Etiquette: Keep noise levels low, and avoid talking on the phone in the seating area. Use the designated phone zones near the train doors.
Wi-Fi: KTX trains offer free Wi-Fi, but the connection may be spotty in tunnels or rural areas.

Korail Customer Service: Dial 1544-7788 (Korean) or 82-1599-7777 (English support available).
Tourist Information Centers: Located at major train stations, including Jeonju Station, for maps, brochures, and assistance.

By using this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Jeonju’s train system and enjoy your visit to this culturally rich city. Safe travels!

Jeonju