Global Major Cities Guide

Essential knowledge about getting around Suwon, including public transit systems and personal vehicle options.

Sections

1. Public Transportation in Suwon

A. Buses

Buses are one of the most common and affordable ways to get around Suwon. The city has an extensive bus network that connects neighborhoods, tourist attractions, and nearby cities.

Types of Buses:
- Local Buses (Green Buses): Operate within Suwon and its immediate surroundings.
- Intercity/Express Buses (Blue Buses): Connect Suwon to other cities, including Seoul and Incheon.
- Red Buses: These are express buses designed for commuters traveling to Seoul and other major cities.
- Village Buses (Maeul Buses): Smaller buses that operate on shorter routes within neighborhoods.
Costs:
- Local buses: Around 1,400 KRW (with a T-money card) or 1,500 KRW (cash).
- Red buses: Around 2,400–2,800 KRW depending on the route.
- Discounts are available for children, teenagers, and seniors.
Payment:
- Use a T-money card (a rechargeable transportation card) for convenience and discounted fares.
- Cash is accepted, but exact change is required.
Tips for Newcomers:
- Bus stops are clearly marked, and most have route maps in Korean and English.
- Download apps like KakaoMap or Naver Map for real-time bus schedules and route planning.
- Buses can get crowded during rush hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM), so plan accordingly.

B. Subway

Suwon is part of the Seoul Metropolitan Subway system, which is one of the most efficient in the world. The Bundang Line (Yellow Line) and Line 1 (Blue Line) serve Suwon, providing excellent connectivity to Seoul and other nearby cities.

Key Stations in Suwon:
- Suwon Station: A major hub for subway, buses, and trains.
- Mangpo Station, Maetan-Gwonseon Station, and Seryu Station: Other important stops on the Bundang Line.
Costs:
- Base fare: 1,250 KRW (with a T-money card) for trips under 10 km.
- Additional charges apply for longer distances (100 KRW per 5 km).
- Discounts are available for children, teenagers, and seniors.
Payment:
- Use a T-money card or Cashbee card for seamless travel.
- Tickets can also be purchased at vending machines in subway stations.
Tips for Newcomers:
- Subway maps are available in English, Korean, Chinese, and Japanese.
- Avoid peak hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 6:00–8:00 PM) if possible.
- Look for the "Transfer Discount" when switching between buses and subways within 30 minutes.

C. Taxis

Taxis are widely available in Suwon and are a convenient option, especially for short trips or late-night travel.

Types of Taxis:
- Standard Taxis: Affordable and metered.
- Deluxe Taxis (Mobeom): More spacious and comfortable but more expensive.
- International Taxis: Drivers speak basic English and are ideal for tourists.
Costs:
- Base fare: 3,800 KRW for the first 2 km.
- Additional fare: 100 KRW per 132 meters or 100 KRW per 31 seconds of waiting time.
- Late-night surcharge (10:00 PM–4:00 AM): 20% increase in fare.
Tips for Newcomers:
- Taxis are metered, so avoid unmetered rides to prevent overcharging.
- Use apps like Kakao T to book taxis easily and avoid language barriers.
- Tipping is not customary in South Korea.

2. Ticketing Systems

T-money Card:
- A rechargeable transportation card that can be used on buses, subways, and even taxis.
- Available for purchase at convenience stores (e.g., GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) and subway stations.
- Initial cost: 2,500–4,000 KRW (excluding balance).
- Rechargeable at convenience stores or subway station kiosks.
Cashbee Card:
- Similar to the T-money card and accepted on most public transportation.
Mobile Payment:
- Some apps, like KakaoPay, allow you to pay for transportation directly through your smartphone.

3. Connectivity to Nearby Cities

Suwon is well-connected to Seoul, Incheon, and other cities in Gyeonggi Province.

Subway: Line 1 and the Bundang Line provide direct access to Seoul and other metropolitan areas.
Intercity Buses: Suwon Bus Terminal offers frequent services to cities like Seoul, Incheon, Daejeon, and Busan.
KTX (Korea Train Express): Suwon Station is a stop on the high-speed KTX line, making it easy to travel to cities like Busan, Daejeon, and Gwangju.

4. Alternative Transportation Options

A. Bike-Sharing

Suwon has a bike-sharing system called "Suwon Bike" (수원시 자전거 대여소).

How to Use:
- Bikes can be rented from designated stations around the city.
- Payment is made via a mobile app or at the rental station.
- Rates are affordable, typically 1,000–2,000 KRW per hour.
Tips:
- Suwon is a bike-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes in many areas.
- Always wear a helmet and follow traffic rules.

B. Walking

Suwon is a walkable city, especially in areas like Hwaseong Fortress and the surrounding neighborhoods. Walking is a great way to explore the city’s historical and cultural sites.

C. Car Rentals

Car rentals are available but not commonly used for short-term visitors due to the efficiency of public transportation. If you plan to explore rural areas or nearby mountains, renting a car might be a good option.

5. Cultural Tips for Using Transportation in Suwon

Queueing: Always line up when waiting for buses or subways. Pushing or cutting in line is considered rude.
Priority Seating: Reserved seats on buses and subways are for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. Avoid sitting in these seats unless you qualify.
Quietness: Public transportation is generally quiet. Avoid loud conversations or phone calls.
Eating and Drinking: Eating is not allowed on buses or subways. Drinking water is acceptable but avoid other beverages.
Politeness: Greet bus drivers with a slight nod or a "thank you" ("감사합니다" – gamsahamnida) when boarding or alighting.

6. Advice for Newcomers

Download Apps: Use apps like KakaoMap, Naver Map, and Kakao T for navigation, real-time transit updates, and taxi bookings.
Learn Basic Korean Phrases:
- "Where is the bus stop?" – "버스 정류장이 어디에 있나요?" (Beoseu jeongryujangi eodie innayo?)
- "How much is the fare?" – "요금이 얼마인가요?" (Yogeumi eolmaingayo?)
Plan Ahead: Check schedules and routes in advance, especially for intercity buses and trains.
Carry a T-money Card: It simplifies travel and saves money on fares.

By following this guide, you’ll find it easy to navigate Suwon’s transportation system and enjoy your time in this beautiful city. Safe travels!