Seoul

1. Categories of Buses in Seoul

Seoul’s buses are color-coded and categorized based on their routes, coverage, and purpose. Here’s a breakdown:

1.1. Blue Buses (Main Arterial Buses)

• Purpose: Connect major districts and operate on long-distance routes across Seoul.
• Characteristics: These buses run on main roads and are designed for faster travel.
• Bus Numbers: Typically 3-digit numbers starting with a "1" or "2" (e.g., 143, 240).

1.2. Green Buses (Local/Feeder Buses)

• Purpose: Connect neighborhoods to subway stations and major bus terminals.
• Characteristics: Shorter routes, often within a single district or between nearby districts.
• Bus Numbers: 2-digit or 3-digit numbers starting with a "3" or "4" (e.g., 331, 421).

1.3. Red Buses (Express Buses)

• Purpose: Serve commuters traveling between Seoul and surrounding cities in Gyeonggi Province.
• Characteristics: Limited stops, designed for longer distances, and more comfortable seating.
• Bus Numbers: 4-digit numbers starting with a "9" (e.g., 9401, 9602).

1.4. Yellow Buses (Circulation Buses)

• Purpose: Operate within specific areas, such as tourist spots or business districts.
• Characteristics: Circular routes with frequent stops.
• Bus Numbers: 2-digit numbers starting with a "0" (e.g., 01, 02).

1.5. Airport Limousine Buses

• Purpose: Provide direct service between Incheon/Gimpo Airports and major areas in Seoul.
• Characteristics: Comfortable, with luggage storage and fewer stops.
• Bus Numbers: Typically start with "6000" (e.g., 6001, 6015).

1.6. Night Buses (Owl Buses)

• Purpose: Operate during late-night hours (midnight to 5:00 AM).
• Characteristics: Limited routes covering major areas.
• Bus Numbers: Start with "N" (e.g., N26, N37).

---

2. Fare Costs and Payment Methods

Seoul’s bus fares are affordable and vary depending on the type of bus and distance traveled. Below are the details:

2.1. Fare Costs (as of 2023)

| Bus Type | Base Fare (T-Money Card) | Base Fare (Cash) | |-----------------------|-----------------------------|-----------------------| | Blue/Green Buses | 1,250 KRW | 1,300 KRW | | Red Buses | 2,400 KRW | 2,500 KRW | | Yellow Buses | 1,200 KRW | 1,300 KRW | | Airport Limousine | 10,000–16,000 KRW | Same as T-Money | | Night Buses (Owl) | 2,150 KRW | 2,250 KRW |

• Discounts: Children and teenagers receive discounted fares. Transfers between buses and subways are free or discounted if completed within 30 minutes.

2.2. Payment Methods

• T-Money Card: A rechargeable transportation card that offers discounted fares and seamless transfers. It can be purchased at convenience stores (e.g., GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) or subway stations.
  • Cost: 2,500–4,000 KRW (excluding balance).
  • Recharge: Minimum 1,000 KRW at convenience stores or subway station machines.
• Cash: Accepted, but exact change is required, and fares are slightly higher.

---

3. Procedures for Riding Buses

Here’s a step-by-step guide to using Seoul’s buses:

3.1. Finding the Right Bus

• Use apps like KakaoMap, Naver Map, or Seoul Bus to find bus routes, stops, and schedules.
• Bus stops are clearly marked with signs listing bus numbers and routes in Korean and English.

3.2. Boarding the Bus

1. Wait at the Bus Stop: Stand at the designated stop and check the electronic display for arrival times.
2. Boarding: Enter through the front door. Buses kneel (lower their height) to make boarding easier.
3. Payment:
   • Tap your T-Money card on the card reader near the driver.
   • If paying cash, insert the exact fare into the fare box.

3.3. Riding the Bus

• Seating: Priority seats are reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. If no seats are available, hold onto the handrails.
• Announcements: Stops are announced in Korean and English. Watch the screen or listen for your stop.

3.4. Exiting the Bus

1. Press the Stop Button: Press the button near your seat or on the handrail before your stop.
2. Exit Through the Rear Door: Tap your T-Money card again on the reader near the rear door to ensure proper fare calculation.

---

4. Local Considerations and Tips

• Peak Hours: Buses can get crowded during rush hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 6:00–8:00 PM). Plan accordingly.
• Transfers: You can transfer up to 4 times between buses and subways within 30 minutes without incurring additional base fares (as long as the total distance is within the base fare limit).
• Language Barrier: While announcements are in English, bus drivers may not speak English. Use apps to confirm your route.
• Bus Etiquette:
  • Offer your seat to the elderly or those in need.
  • Avoid loud conversations or phone calls.
• Late-Night Travel: Night buses are a safe and reliable option for late-night travel, but they have limited routes, so check schedules in advance.
• Weather Considerations: Bus stops are often equipped with shelters, but during extreme weather, buses may be delayed.

---

5. Useful Apps and Resources

• KakaoMap: Real-time bus tracking, route planning, and stop information.
• Naver Map: Comprehensive navigation with English support.
• Seoul Bus App: Focused on bus routes and schedules.
• T-Money App: Manage your T-Money card balance and transactions.

---

By following this guide, you’ll be able to navigate Seoul’s bus system confidently and efficiently. Whether you’re commuting, sightseeing, or exploring the city, the bus system is a reliable and cost-effective way to get around. Safe travels!