Getting Around Seoul
🚇 Seoul Metro
One of the world's best subway systems with 22 lines covering the entire city. Signs in Korean, English, Chinese, and Japanese. Service times and intervals vary by line and station; check the operating timetable for the route you plan to take.
- T-money Card: Rechargeable transit card (₩2,500 deposit) used on all public transport. Buy at convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) or subway stations. The cited fare is outdated; Seoul’s official guide has an updated fare table. Check the current fare for the specific bus and payment method, transfers free within 30 minutes.
- Single Journey Tickets: Available at stations (₩1,350 base fare + ₩500 refundable deposit). Less convenient than T-money.
- Tourist Passes: Check the tourist-pass options (passes change over time) and compare with a T-money card.
- Apps: Download Kakao Metro or Naver Map for real-time routes, station info, and exit guidance.
🚌 Buses
Extensive network but more complex for tourists. Color-coded by route type: Blue (main routes), Green (local), Red (express), Yellow (circular). Same T-money card works. Base fare ₩1,200. Use apps for routes as signs primarily in Korean.
🚕 Taxis
The stated base fare is outdated; check the current official taxi fare table. Metered and affordable. The stated base fare is outdated; check current fares and don’t assume every driver speaks English. International Taxis: Orange with "International Taxi" sign, drivers speak English/Chinese/Japanese, reservations recommended.
- Apps: Kakao T (most popular), Uber available but limited
- Tips: Have destination written in Korean, use hotel business cards, few drivers speak English
- Late Night: 20% surcharge midnight-4 AM
✈️ Airport Transfer
Incheon Airport (ICN) to Seoul (60km):
- The All-Stop fare varies by airport terminal and current tariff; check AREX’s fare table. Don’t rely on the quoted fare as a universal price. Most convenient option.
- Airport Limousine Bus: Comfortable buses to major hotels/districts (60-90 min, ₩10,000-16,000). Buy tickets at airport.
- Taxi: To central Seoul ₩60,000-80,000 (60-90 min depending on traffic). Flat rates available to major districts.
Gimpo Airport (GMP) to Seoul (20km):
- Subway: Airport line connects to subway system (40-50 min, ₩1,450-2,150)
- Limousine Bus: To major hotels (40-60 min, ₩7,000-9,000)
- Taxi: ₩25,000-35,000 (30-40 min)
🚗 Car Rental
Not recommended for tourists. Seoul has excellent public transport, difficult parking, heavy traffic, and navigation challenges. If needed: International Driving Permit required, drive on right side, tolls on expressways.
Pro Tip: Get a T-money card immediately upon arrival. Works everywhere and saves time. Rechargeable at convenience stores and subway stations.