Getting around South Korea is one of the great pleasures of travelling here. The network is fast, clean, punctual and remarkably affordable, and a single rechargeable card unlocks almost all of it. Whether you are dashing between cities on a high-speed train or hopping across Seoul by subway, this guide covers everything you need to move like a local.
KTX high-speed rail
The KTX is the backbone of intercity travel, linking Seoul to Busan in roughly two and a half hours at speeds up to 300 km/h. Lines also reach Daejeon, Daegu, Gwangju, Mokpo and more, so most major cities are a short, comfortable ride apart. Buy tickets at station machines, counters, or the Korail app, and reserve ahead for weekends and holidays. Standard class is spacious and quiet; there is no need for first class on short hops. Trains leave exactly on time, so arrive a few minutes early.
Subways in Seoul and Busan
Seoul has one of the best metro systems in the world: extensive, modern, signposted in English, and cheap. Trains are frequent and stations often connect directly to shopping and underground passages. Busan has its own clean, easy-to-use subway covering the beaches, city centre and transport hubs. Station signs and announcements appear in English, and apps show real-time arrivals. Avoid rush hours, roughly early morning and early evening, if you dislike crowds.
The T-money card
The T-money card is essential. Buy one at any convenience store (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven) or station machine, load it with cash, and tap on and off buses, subways and even many taxis. It gives small discounts and, crucially, free or cheap transfers between buses and subway within a set window. Recharge at machines or convenience stores. Some overseas transit cards and phone-based options also work, but T-money is the simplest for visitors and works nationwide.
Intercity and express buses
Buses reach places trains do not and are excellent value. Express buses run fast on motorways between major cities, while intercity buses serve smaller towns and the countryside. Terminals are well organised, seats are comfortable, and premium buses offer wide reclining seats for long routes. Book popular routes ahead during holidays. Buses are often the best way to reach national parks and coastal towns off the rail lines.
Taxis and Kakao T
Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced. The Kakao T app lets you hail a taxi, see the route and pay smoothly, which removes any language barrier since you enter the destination on the map. Regular taxis take T-money and cards. Fares rise slightly late at night. For short hops or when carrying luggage, a taxi is convenient and rarely expensive.
Domestic flights to Jeju
Jeju Island is served by one of the busiest air routes in the world, with frequent, inexpensive flights from Seoul, Busan and other cities. Booking ahead lands the best fares, and the flight takes about an hour. Since Jeju has limited rail, plan local transport by bus, rental car or taxi once you arrive.
Ferries
Ferries connect the mainland to islands along the south and west coasts, offering a scenic alternative for places like Jeju or smaller isles. Schedules depend on weather and season, so confirm departures in advance and allow buffer time, as sailings can be cancelled in rough conditions.
From Incheon Airport: AREX
Most visitors arrive at Incheon International Airport. The AREX Airport Railroad links it to central Seoul: the all-stop commuter train is very cheap and reliable, while the express runs non-stop to Seoul Station faster. Limousine buses reach hotels across the city, and taxis are available for late arrivals. Pick up a T-money card and a SIM or eSIM at the airport before you head into town.
Practical tips
Download Naver Map or Kakao Map, since Google Maps navigation is limited in Korea. Keep your T-money topped up, carry a little cash for rural buses, and note that trains and buses run to precise timetables. With this simple toolkit, the whole country opens up quickly and cheaply.