Seoul Transit 101: What Every Visitor Should Know

Seoul Transport MISTAKES Tourists Make And How to Avoid Them! (YouTube link)

Overview of Seoul Transportation Tips

In the video above, GAMJA IN SEOUL shares helpful tips for traveling in Seoul:

• Prep: Carry KRW cash for T-Money reloads; load the WOW Pass's transport pocket separately.
• Subway: Check platforms using station signs and maps; be aware of express trains; choose numbered exits carefully. Rush Hours: 7:30–9:00 a.m. and 4:30–7:00 p.m. on weekdays
• Bus: Signal to board and ring the bell to exit; tap out for transfers; use the map to identify the correct stop side.
• Etiquette: Respect priority seating, avoid large luggage, and plan ahead for the last trains.
• See Also: Your Guide to a Smooth Journey from Incheon Airport to Seoul by Limousine Bus & Mastering Naver Map for Travel in Korea (When Google Maps Fails)

These habits help ensure a stress-free ride and enhance your Seoul adventure.

Introduction to Seoul's Public Transportation

Seoul boasts one of the world's top public transit systems, but its complexity can frustrate travelers and locals alike. This guide addresses common pain points like confusing routes and payment quirks, offering practical tips for buses and subways. Whether you've struggled personally or heard stories from friends, these strategies will make navigation smoother.

Essential: Getting and Loading a Transportation Card

No trip in Seoul is possible without a reloadable card. The two primary options are:

• Standard Cards: T-Money or Cashbee, available at convenience stores, subways, or airports.
• Tourist Option: WOW Pass, which combines transport functions with shopping perks.

The "Cash-Only" Reload Rule: A major gotcha for visitors—vending machines and convenience stores (e.g., CU, GS25, 7-Eleven) require Korean won (KRW) cash for top-ups. Credit cards aren't accepted because stores earn no profit from these services and would incur Visa/Mastercard fees, leading to losses. This keeps the free service viable.

Cash Budgeting Tip: Plan for ~6,000 KRW per person per day. Basic fares are ~1,500 KRW per ride, so this covers about four trips—ample for typical sightseeing. Adjust based on your itinerary; heavy users might need more, but it's rarely exceeded.

WOW Pass Specifics: Treat it like a dual-pocket wallet:

• Pocket 1 (Prepaid Debit): Load with foreign currency at machines for shopping/taxis.
• Pocket 2 (T-Money Function): Load separately with KRW cash for transit, just like a regular card. Critical Warning: Forgetting this step blocks subway/bus access—always double-check.

Refunds for Leftover Balance

When leaving Korea, reclaiming funds is straightforward:

• Under 20,000 KRW: Visit any convenience store for cash refund minus a 500 KRW service fee.
• Over 20,000 KRW: Use dedicated refund machines at major subway stations (e.g., Seoul Station).

Why Skip Single-Journey Tickets

Steer clear—they're inefficient:

• Require a 500 KRW deposit refunded per ride (hassle with every trip).
• No Transfer Support: Useless for multi-leg journeys (e.g., subway to bus). Opt for T-Money/Cashbee instead for seamless 30-minute transfers at reduced/no extra cost.

Mastering the Subway

Seoul's subway is efficient but demands attention to details.

Finding the Right Platform & Direction:

• Unlike simple north/south labels in the West, check overhead signs listing the next 2-3 stations.
• Cross-reference with your map/app: If destinations don't match, switch platforms.
• Example: At Myeongdong Station (Line 4), heading to Sinchon? One platform might list Gimpo Airport (wrong direction); the opposite shows Hongik University (correct). Always verify signs and maps to avoid boarding the wrong train.

Express vs. All-Stop Trains:

• All-Stop: Halts at every station—ideal for short/local trips.
• Express: Skips minor stops for speed—check your map for the type needed.
• Platforms/screens announce incoming trains clearly; a quick glance prevents missing stops.

Choosing the Right Exit:

• Stations are massive (e.g., 10+ exits), so don't rush to the nearest stairs—consult maps for numbered exits tied to your destination.
• Example: At Seoul Station, for Four Points Hotel, Exit 12 is a 2-minute walk; Exit 3 adds 10 extra minutes. Proper exit selection saves time and reduces above-ground confusion.

Navigating Buses Effectively

Buses complement subways for off-rail areas, with color-coded routes (green: local, blue: feeder, red: express).

Signaling to Board:

• Buses won't stop automatically at shared stops—wave or stand visibly to signal intent, especially with multiple routes.

Requesting a Stop:

• Press the red bell inside before your stop; the driver won't halt otherwise.

Stop Locations:

• Sidewalk Stops: For local green/blue buses.
• Center-Lane Stops: For major red routes in dedicated lanes.
• Pro Tip: Rely on maps/apps—they specify the exact side/street, ensuring you're not waiting in the wrong spot.

Critical: Tapping Out:

• Always tap your card on exit (not just entry) for free/discounted transfers (bus-to-bus/subway) within 30 minutes. Forgetting means full fare next time—costly error!

Local Etiquette and Practical Advice

Blend in like a pro with these unwritten rules:

• Priority Seating: Reserved for seniors, pregnant people, or disabled passengers—even if the train seems empty. Yield them; it's a strong cultural norm.
• Luggage Warning: Skip large suitcases on transit—space is tight, and rush-hour crowds turn it into chaos for all. Taxis are better for heavy loads.
• Night Travel: Subways end ~midnight (varies by line—check apps). Miss it? Use taxis or the reliable night bus network (N-series), covering key areas cheaply.