Transportation in Seoul: A Comprehensive Guide

Seoul’s public transport network is among the best in the world—clean, punctual, and committed to accessibility. Getting around the capital of South Korea is smoother than ever thanks to several smartphone apps that provide real-time information.

A Transport Pass Brings Convenience and Savings

Seoul’s buses and trains are operated by several different companies, but you can pay for journeys with all operators using a transport pass. Three options are available: NAMANE, T-money, and Cashbee.

You can get a physical NAMANE card from kiosks at transport hubs or use a digital one via the app. Simply top it up and use it across public transport, as well as in some retailers. T-money and Cashbee cards can be purchased at convenience stores as well as transport hubs. Just add value to them to use on any public transport and affiliated retailers—note that T-money is more widely accepted in stores than Cashbee.

While it is possible to buy single-ride tickets at the station or pay in cash on the bus, transport cards can also be used in taxis, subways, and buses across the country. Additionally, T-money can be combined with special deals for foreign tourists, providing added value.

Many of the cards have special designs or themes (such as K-pop group images), making them popular souvenirs. They can be refunded for the original price at Incheon International Airport when you leave the country.

The Metro: Fast, Efficient, and Affordable

With 22 subway lines making 302 stops across the city, the Seoul Metro is an efficient way to navigate. Download the Metro app for iPhone or Android, and the process becomes straightforward. Each station features English-language signs, and stops are announced in multiple languages, including Korean, English, Chinese, and Japanese.

Fares start at ₩1400 per ride with a transport pass. The system allows up to four transfers between subway lines or buses for free within a 30-minute window. Platform screens display real-time information on metro arrivals and departures, while exit signs indicate nearby landmarks.

Generally, when changing subway lines, you do not have to tap out to make transfers. Be aware that the subway operates from midnight to 5:30 am, although exact times can vary by line, so checking the app is advisable.

Subway Etiquette: Navigating with Respect

Etiquette is crucial on the subway. Most passengers line up outside the train doors and enter in an orderly manner. Designated seats are reserved for the elderly, pregnant passengers, and travelers with disabilities. While it’s acceptable to sit in these seats if they are available, it’s good manners to leave them empty for those who genuinely need them.

Seoul’s Buses: A Comprehensive Network

Buses may take a little longer than the metro but provide great coverage, particularly in residential areas or when multiple subway transfers are needed.

Bus stops display routes in both Korean and English, and many have digital screens showing when the next bus arrives, alongside crowding indicators. The seat availability signage may only be in Korean, with “comfortable,” “average,” and “busy” designated by colors white, yellow, and red, respectively.

Five types of color-coded buses signal their intended routes. Green and blue buses cover cross-town routes (fare: ₩1500). Small green local buses (maeul) operate solely in local neighborhoods (fare: ₩1200). Red buses cater to routes between Seoul and outer regions (fare: ₩3000), and yellow buses provide circulator routes around popular destinations (fare: ₩1400).

You can transfer to the subway or another bus for free within 30 minutes, provided you tap in at the front door and tap out at the back. Remember to tap out to ensure your free transfers and discounts. During rush hours, queuing at bus stops may be more relaxed, albeit some drivers prefer order.

Night buses are designated with an “N” before their number, with a fare of ₩2500. The typical bus etiquette of yielding seats to those in need is less strictly enforced during night rides, but passengers should be ready to give up their seats when necessary.

Taxis: Convenient for Late-Night Travel

Seoul taxis are available in various models, typically mid-size sedans in orange or silver, accommodating up to four passengers. Base fares start at ₩4800, with additional costs applied per distance traveled, particularly incrementally higher during late-night hours between 10 pm and 4 am. Passengers can pay by credit card, cash, or transport card.

While Korean ride-hailing apps exist, these usually require a local phone number. Nonetheless, apps like Kakao T offer English interfaces for easier navigation. Cabs operated by International Taxi Service can be pre-booked, but reservations need to be made 24 hours in advance for these services. Otherwise, hailing a taxi on the street is an option.

It’s advised to present the driver with the name of your destination written in Korean, especially considering the existence of similarly named locations. For further directions or language assistance, a free interpretation hotline is accessible, typically indicated by a sticker inside the cab.

Be mindful that some taxi drivers may hesitate to accept short trips. Locals often mitigate this by entering the cab and closing the door before informing the driver of their destination.

Discoverizing the City by Bike

Seoul provides various bike-share options, but Ttareungi is the most well-known among non-residents due to its distinctive bicycles. To utilize the system, visitors should download the Seoul Bike app and purchase hourly, daily, or yearly passes. Bicycles can easily be rented from one station and returned to another.

While dedicated cycle paths exist, including the scenic Hangang River Cycling Trail, many areas lack separate bike lanes, necessitating sharing the sidewalk with pedestrians. Cyclists are advised to dismount and walk across pedestrian crosswalks, although enforcement of this rule can vary.

Walking: The Ideal Method to Explore

Seoul is a densely packed city, with shops, restaurants, and cultural sites closely situated. Walking allows visitors to discover more sights over short distances. A walk of just 1.3 km (0.9 miles) can take you from Gyeongbokgung Palace to Changdeokgung Palace, with numerous hidden attractions and cafes along the way that you may miss if traveling by cab, bus, or train.

Accessible Transportation in Seoul

Seoul’s Metro system is recognized as “mostly accessible.” Features like audio and visual information systems, elevators, Braille tiles, accessible turnstiles, and dedicated bathrooms are standard at most subway stations. In cases where elevators malfunction, attendants are usually available to assist with wheelchair access to platforms.

All Seoul buses also feature accessibility options, including priority seating and ramp access. For detailed information about accessible sightseeing and calling wheelchair-accessible taxis, resources like Seoul Danurim provide valuable guidance. Accessible travel resources can also be found for additional planning support.

This article aims to provide you with practical insights into navigating the vibrant city of Seoul via its transportation options. Enjoy your travels and make the most of this remarkable city experience!