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. Trains run 5:30 AM-midnight with 2-5 minute intervals during peak hours.
- 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. Base fare ₩1,250, 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: M Pass (1/2/3/5/7 days) unlimited subway and bus rides. Good value if making 4+ trips daily.
- 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
Regular Taxis: Silver/white cars, base fare ₩3,800 (first 2km). Metered and affordable. Deluxe Taxis: Black with yellow sign, higher quality and English-speaking drivers, base fare ₩6,500. 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 Transportation
Incheon Airport (ICN) to Seoul (60km):
- Airport Railroad Express (AREX): Express train to Seoul Station (43 min, ₩9,500) or All-Stop train (58 min, ₩4,150). 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.
- KTX Train: Direct train service from Terminal 2 to Seoul Station and beyond.
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.