Popular Transport in South Korea

The most common transportation cards in South Korea are T-Money and Cashbee cards. These cards can be purchased and topped up at subway stations nationwide, convenience stores (such as GS25, CU, 7-Eleven), and some banks. Usage is very simple: just tap the card on the reader when boarding a bus or entering/exiting subway gates. The cards are not only valid for public transport like subways and buses, but also for some taxis and convenience store purchases, making your trip to Korea more convenient and faster, saving you the hassle of buying tickets each time.

For independent travel in South Korea, if you are mainly moving within cities, subways and buses are the most recommended and convenient options. The subway network is extensive, covers major attractions, and has clear signage; buses can reach areas not served by the subway. For inter-city travel, the high-speed train KTX is the best choice, quickly connecting major cities. Additionally, taxis or ride-hailing services (like Kakao T) can be very convenient in specific situations, such as at night or when carrying a lot of luggage.

The Seoul subway system is vast, with dense lines covering a wide area, reaching almost all major parts of the city. It seamlessly connects with other transportation options like the Incheon Airport Railroad, offering extremely high convenience. The Busan subway system is relatively smaller, but for visiting popular attractions within the city, its efficiency and convenience remain excellent. Both cities' subways support transportation card usage, provide clear signage, and offer multilingual information, making it easy for travelers to navigate.

The cherry blossom season is a peak tourist period in South Korea, so traffic to popular viewing spots can indeed be congested, especially on weekends and holidays. It is advisable to depart early to avoid peak hours. Make good use of public transportation like subways and buses, and consider walking the remaining distance to avoid traffic jams. Checking real-time traffic information or visiting during off-peak hours can make your cherry blossom viewing experience smoother and more enjoyable.

There are several transportation options from Incheon International Airport to Seoul city center. The most popular is the Airport Railroad Express (AREX), which has both express and all-stop trains, quickly reaching Seoul Station. Airport buses are also a convenient choice, with extensive routes reaching major hotels or areas in downtown Seoul. Additionally, taxis are available, suitable for travelers with a lot of luggage or group travel, but travel time will be affected by road conditions. Travelers can choose the most suitable option based on their needs and destination.

The main transportation methods for inter-city travel within South Korea include the KTX high-speed train, long-distance buses, and domestic flights. KTX is the fastest option, suitable for connecting major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu. The long-distance bus network is dense, reaching smaller cities or towns not served by KTX, with frequent departures. For traveling to islands like Jeju Island, domestic flights are the most efficient option. Travelers can choose based on their destination, budget, time, and personal preferences.

Jeju Island's public bus system is the primary means of transportation for island-wide travel, including main routes, feeder routes, and tourist loop buses, covering major towns and attractions on the island. Travelers can check bus routes, estimated arrival times, and real-time locations through local map navigation apps (such as Kakao Map or Naver Map), which provide rich information. It is recommended to plan your itinerary in advance and use these tools to check the latest schedule information for a more convenient island tour.

Booking KTX high-speed train tickets in South Korea is very convenient. Travelers can purchase tickets through the official website or mobile app of Korea Railroad Corporation (Korail), or at station counters. Alternatively, you can book through KKday for support in Chinese and flexible cancellation policies, which simplifies communication. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during Korean holidays. When traveling, please pay attention to platform information, arrive at the station early, and confirm your seat number on the ticket. KTX trains typically have luggage racks and a dining car, making your journey more comfortable.

The friendliness of public transportation systems for travelers with strollers in South Korea is progressively improving. Most major subway stations are equipped with elevators or escalators, and many have accessible exits, with dedicated space within train cars. Buses are increasingly featuring low-floor designs, making it easier to board with strollers. However, some older stations or bus stops may still have incomplete facilities. When planning your itinerary, it is recommended to use map applications to check station facilities and avoid peak hours for a more comfortable travel experience.

Long-distance buses between cities in South Korea are typically boarded at integrated intercity bus terminals. These terminals are important hubs connecting intercity transportation. Travelers can purchase tickets at the terminal counters or book in advance through online booking platforms. The most convenient way to check travel information and schedules is by using local map navigation apps (such as Kakao Map or Naver Map), which usually integrate long-distance bus routes, timetables, and ticketing information. It is advisable to arrive at the bus terminal early to confirm your boarding platform.