Transportation
Hey there!
Navigating public transportation in Korea might seem tricky at first, but don’t worry—I’ve got your back.
Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to get you where you need to go, whether by subway or bus terminal.
※ If you are a Bicycle Rider,
Please click HERE
Public Transportation
1. Useful Apps📱
- Download Naver Maps or Kakao Maps for navigation and public transport information.
- Use KakaoTaxi for easy taxi hailing and Korail Talk for train bookings.
2. Bus🚌
- Express Bus:
- How to Use: Some express buses may allow bicycles; confirm with the bus company before traveling.
- Preparation: Pack your bike securely if allowed on board.
- Check: Verify departure times and availability of bike space.
- Intercity&Regular Bus:
- How to Use: Buses cover areas not reached by subways.You can pay with cash or use a T-money card. Look for bus stops with route information.
- Preparation: Download a bus app or check online for routes and schedules. Know your destination stop in advance.
- Check: Have small change if you are paying cash, as bus drivers may not provide change.
3. Taxi 🚕
- Regular Taxi:
- How to Use: Look for gray, orange, or white taxis. Ensure the meter is running to avoid overcharging.
- Preparation: Have your destination written in Korean to show the driver.
- Check: Confirm with the driver that they can accommodate your bicycle if you are traveling with one.
- Deluxe Taxi:
- How to Use: These black taxis with yellow tops offer more comfort. They are larger and more expensive than regular taxis.
- Preparation: Similar to regular taxis, have your destination written down.
- Check: Confirm availability for transporting bicycles if needed.
- Kakao Taxi:
- How to Use: Download the Kakao Taxi app for easy booking by entering your destination and requesting a ride.
- Preparation: Set up an account and link a payment method in advance.
- Check: Specify that you have a bicycle when requesting a taxi.
4. Trains🚆
- KTX (Korea Train eXpress):
- How to Use: Reserve a spot for your bicycle when booking KTX tickets online or at the station. Bicycles are allowed but require a reservation.
- Preparation: Visit the Korail website or use the Korail Talk app to book tickets in advance, selecting a train that accommodates bicycles.
- Check: Arrive at least 30 minutes early to find your platform and complete boarding.
- ITX and Mugunghwa:
- How to Use: Similar to KTX, these trains also allow bicycles but check specific policies regarding reservations.
- Preparation: Book tickets in advance and confirm bicycle space availability.
- Check: Review train schedules and platform information upon arrival at the station.
5. Subway🚊
- How to Use: The subway system has extensive networks in major cities like Seoul and Busan. Purchase a ticket at the station or use a T-money card for seamless access.
- Preparation: Familiarize yourself with the subway map and plan your route in advance. Check the operating hours, as some lines may close earlier than others.
- Check: Ensure you are aware of peak hours (typically 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) to avoid crowded trains.
6. Car Rental🚗
- How to Use: Rent a car from major rental companies at airports or city locations that allow bicycles.
- Preparation: Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you’re a foreign driver.
- Check: Confirm that the rental vehicle can accommodate your bicycle, especially if you need a roof rack or trunk space.
7. Domestic Flight✈️
- How to Use: Airlines like Korean Air and Asiana Airlines allow bicycles as checked luggage, but additional fees may apply.
- Preparation: Contact the airline ahead of time to understand their specific policies regarding bicycle transport.
- Check: Ensure your bicycle is properly packed according to airline regulations.
For Riders
1. Useful Apps📱
- Download Naver Maps or Kakao Maps for navigation and public transport information.
- Use KakaoTaxi for easy taxi hailing and Korail Talk for train bookings.
2. Bus🚌
- Intercity&Regular Bus:
- How to Use: Most city buses do not allow bicycles, but some long-distance buses may have bike racks. Confirm with the bus company beforehand.
- Preparation: If taking a long-distance bus, check if your bike can be stored securely. Pack your bike in a protective cover if required.
- Check: Call or visit the bus company’s website to verify their bicycle policy.
- Express Bus:
- How to Use: Some express buses may allow bicycles; confirm with the bus company before traveling.
- Preparation: Pack your bike securely if allowed on board.
- Check: Verify departure times and availability of bike space.
3. Taxi🚕
- Regular Taxi:
- How to Use: Look for gray, orange, or white taxis. Ensure the meter is running to avoid overcharging.
- Preparation: Have your destination written in Korean to show the driver.
- Check: Confirm with the driver that they can accommodate your bicycle.
- Kakao Taxi:
- How to Use: Download the Kakao Taxi app for easy booking. Input your destination and request a ride.
- Preparation: Set up an account and link a payment method in advance.
- Check: Specify that you have a bicycle when requesting a taxi.
4. Train🚆
- KTX (Korea Train eXpress):
- How to Use: Reserve a spot for your bicycle when booking KTX tickets online or at the station. Bicycles are allowed but require a reservation.
- Preparation: Visit the Korail website or use the Korail Talk app to book tickets in advance, selecting a train that accommodates bicycles.
- Check: Arrive at least 30 minutes early to find your platform and complete boarding.
- ITX and Mugunghwa:
- How to Use: Similar to KTX, these trains also allow bicycles but check specific policies regarding reservations.
- Preparation: Book tickets in advance and confirm bicycle space availability.
- Check: Review train schedules and platform information upon arrival at the station.
5. Subway🚊
- How to Use: Bicycles are allowed on subways during non-peak hours (typically after 9 AM and before 5 PM). Enter through designated entrances for bicycles.
- Preparation: Ensure your bike is clean and properly secured. Familiarize yourself with the subway map and plan your route in advance.
- Check: Look for signs indicating bicycle access and be mindful of crowded trains.
6. Car Rental🚗
- How to Use: Rent a car from major rental companies at airports or city locations that allow bicycles.
- Preparation: Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you’re a foreign driver.
- Check: Confirm that the rental vehicle can accommodate your bicycle, especially if you need a roof rack or trunk space.
7. Domestic Flight✈️
- How to Use: Airlines like Korean Air and Asiana Airlines allow bicycles as checked luggage, but additional fees may apply.
- Preparation: Contact the airline ahead of time to understand their specific policies regarding bicycle transport.
- Check: Ensure your bicycle is properly packed according to airline regulations.
8. Communication Tips❗️
- Always have your destination written in Korean for easier communication with drivers or locals.
- Learning basic Korean phrases can enhance your travel experience and help with navigation.
※ Remember
By following this guide, you can navigate South Korea’s transportation system smoothly while enjoying your travel experience!
※ If you ever feel lost, just ask someone nearby—they’ll be happy to help. Koreans are super friendly, and many can speak basic English.
I recommend you all prepare the “T-money Card”
How to Use: Purchase a T-money card at convenience stores or subway stations. Load it with funds for seamless travel on subways and buses.
Preparation: Keep your T-money card topped up to avoid inconvenience during travel.
Benefit: you can hop on and off buses and subways to your heart’s content within a set time frame. No need to fumble for cash or worry about buying individual tickets every time you want to explore a new neighborhood.
Check: Ensure your card has sufficient balance before starting your journey.
Have a great trip!
© 2025 All Rights Reserved.