The complete Seoul subway guide: How to use, lines, fares for First-Time Riders

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Welcome to Seoul, the vibrant and colorful capital of South Korea, where the subway system is considered a vital transportation artery, connecting every corner of the city. For first-time visitors to Seoul, understanding and proficiently using the subway system not only helps you save time and travel costs, but also opens the door to exploring countless worth visit places in the most convenient way.

Discover the secrets of the Seoul subway system with Living Nomads, and make every trip easier and more enjoyable!

Seoul subway guide: Introducing the Seoul Subway Network

With a network of more than 20 subway lines spanning Seoul, you’ll find that a subway station is never far from where you stay. Using Google Maps to locate your residence and find the nearest subway station is a quick and convenient solution. You will easily recognize the subway station entrance with the roadside steps and prominent yellow signage.

The Seoul subway system is divided into two types: main lines (red) and secondary lines (blue).

Main Seoul Subway Lines:

• Line 1: Seoul Park Station (Seoul Grand Park) – Sinseong Station
• Line 2: Sindorim Station – Seongsu City Station (Seongsu City)
• Line 3: Daehwa Station – Ogeum Station
• Line 4: Dangjeong Station – Oido Station
• Line 5: Yongsan Station – Macheon Station
• Line 6: Bonghwasan – Eungam
• Line 7: Jangam Station – Oncheonjang Station
• Line 8: Amsa – Morandi
• Line 9: Gaehwa – Gimpo Airport
• Bundang Line: Wangsimni Station – Seongnam Station

Additional Seoul Subway Lines:

• Shinbundang Line: Gangnam Station – Jeongja Station
• Gyeongchun Line: Cheongnyangni Station – Chuncheon Station
• Ilsan Line: Daegok Station – Balsan Station
• Uijeongbu Line: Tapseok Station – Susaek Station
• EverLine Line: Giheung Station – Yongin Everland Station
• Seohae Line: Sosa Station – Incheon International Airport Station
• Jungang Line: Yongsan – Deokso
• Gyeongui–Jungang Line: Munsan Station – Yongsan Station
• Suin–Bundang Line: Wangsimni Station – Incheon Station
• AREX Line: Seoul Station – Incheon International Airport Station

In addition, there are some other routes such as:

• Janghang Line: Yongsan Station – Jukjeon Station
• Maglev Line: Incheon International Airport Station – Yongyu Station

You can download the Seoul Metro app to view route maps, travel times and fares. If you need more information, don’t hesitate to ask the staff at your hotel reception or check out the information online on their website. In just a few seconds, you will grasp all the necessary information!

The subway is a familiar means of transportation for everyone in Seoul, so information about it is common knowledge that any local person knows. Therefore, there is no need to worry or worry when exploring Seoul by subway.

Seoul Subway Operating Hours

The Seoul subway system operates from 5:30 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. the next day, making it easy to move around the city day or night. However, some routes may change schedules or close on weekends or holidays.

KORAIL PASS

Below are the operating times of some main routes:

• Line 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8: 5:30 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. the next day
• Line 6: 5:30 am to 12:00 pm
• Line 9: 5:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m
• Bundang Line: 5:30am to 12:30pm
• Shinbundang Line: 5:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m
• Gyeongchun Line: 5:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m
• Ilsan Line: 5:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m
• Uijeongbu Line: 5:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m
• EverLine: 5:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m
• Seohae Line: 5:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m
• Jungang Line: 5:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m
• Gyeongui–Jungang route: 5:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m
• Suin–Bundang route: 5:30 am to 12:00 pm
• AREX route: 5:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m

Note:

• You can find more information about the operating times of each route on the Seoul Subway website: http://www.seoulmetro.co.kr/en
• Subway schedules may change seasonally or due to special events.
• To avoid rush hour, limit train use from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Another suggestion is that you can enjoy a delicious BBQ during this time!
• Pay attention to bulletin boards at subway stations for updated information.
• Remember that not all metro apps update closing times in real time, so don’t completely rely on them!

How to Buy Subway Tickets in Seoul?

There are two main ways to pay for your train ticket when using the Seoul subway – with cash or a T-Money card.

1. Pay in cash

• You will need to purchase a one-way ticket for each of your train journeys.
• If you plan to use the subway less than five times, paying with cash may be a better choice.

2. Use T-Money Card (# seoul subway guide)

• The card needs to be topped up with cash before use.
• Allows you to deposit enough money in advance for the whole day or trip, helping to reduce the need to buy single tickets for each trip.
• Savings: Fares when using a T-Money card are cheaper than buying a single ticket.
• Convenience: Top up easily at subway stations, convenience stores or automatic top-up machines.
• Activate the card with at least 3000 won and can top up up to 20,000 won.

3. Note

[KR pick up] Klook T-money Card

• Using a T-Money card not only saves money but also brings convenience to daily trips.
• Basic fare applies to the first 10 km. After that, each additional 5 km will increase by 100 won up to 50 km, and from there, each additional 8 km will increase by 100 won.
• Besides the above two payment methods, you can also buy daily or monthly tickets if you need to use the subway regularly.

Buy T-Money Card Easily on Klook

While you can easily purchase a T-Money card at convenience stores across the city, Klook highly recommends you purchase the card before your trip! Each T-Money card purchased on Klook is pre-topped up with 5000 won, allowing the cardholder to use the subway as soon as they get off at Seoul KTX station at the airport. This is also very convenient if you haven’t had a chance to exchange money to Korean Won!

In addition, T-Money card can also be used for other transportation services such as buses and taxis. Additionally, you can also make purchases from convenience stores, vending machines, large department stores, and public phones.

How to top up T-Money Card? (# seoul subway guide)

Topping up your T-Money card is the first step for you to use the modern and convenient public transportation system in Seoul. Below are detailed instructions on how to top up at any metro station:

1. Find a top up machine

• Top-up machines are usually placed in a prominent spot near the subway station entrance.
• Look for the prominent green T-Money logo on the machine for easy identification.

2. Select language

• The top up machine supports multiple languages, including English, Korean, Chinese and Japanese.
• Select the language you want to use on the touch screen.

3. Place your T-Money card

• Place your T-Money card on the touch area on the machine.
• The screen will display the card’s current balance.

4. Choose deposit amount

• Select the amount you want to deposit from the options displayed on the screen.
• You can deposit from 1,000 won to 90,000 won each time.

5. Pay in cash

• Insert cash (banknotes or coins) into the deposit slot on the machine.
• The machine only accepts Korean won.

6. Complete the transaction

• Wait a few seconds for the machine to process the transaction.
• Once completed, the screen will display the new balance of the T-Money card.
• Now you’re ready to use your T-Money card for trips on the subway, buses, and other public transportation in Seoul.

Note:

• You can also top up your T-Money card at convenience stores, vending machines, and other T-Money top-up spots throughout Seoul.
• Download the T-Money app to manage your account, track transaction history and deposit money online.

How to Get Around with Seoul Subway Map?

Now that your T-Money card is fully topped up, it’s your turn to conquer the Seoul subway! Next to the ticket machine, you’ll see a large and seemingly complicated subway map. But don’t panic – it’s not as complicated as you think!

When traveling by subway, you can download software with instructions to help you find the shortest route. For example, the app will find the nearest train station and how you can get there (by bus, taxi or on foot).

Here are some step-by-step instructions for you: (# seoul subway guide)

1. When buying tickets, you need to clearly determine the current train station location and the destination train station location. Pay attention to each route change or connecting station, don’t forget to note the color of the train line you’ll be taking so you can easily look up.
2. Count the number of stations between two stations on the route you followed.
3. Determine the first train line you will take and the last station of that line. This station will be the direction of travel for your line, so pay close attention!
4. Follow the signs in the subway heading to the first line of your trip.
5. When you arrive at the station, you will see a horizontal map showing a list of stations divided into two parts. Search for direction or the last station (mentioned in #3) and find your terminal.
6. Stand behind the numbered station tracks and wait for your train!

For connecting lines/trains:

• The on-board guidance screen will inform you about the connecting trains available at the stations.
• When you arrive at the transfer station, follow the instructions to find the next transfer gate.
• You do not need to leave the transfer station unless your next train is at another station.

You can find a virtual interactive subway map here.

NOTE: One great thing about the Seoul subway system is that signage is available everywhere – on station floors, near train doors, and on screens! Take note of these tables so you won’t get lost. If you need more help, please visit the helpful information counters available!

Taking the Seoul Metro – Things to Note

As tourists, we always want to have wonderful and memorable experiences at the places we visit. To make the trip more complete, following the rules and polite habits is extremely important. In Seoul, the modern and convenient subway system is the means of transportation chosen by many tourists. Here are some simple rules that you should keep in mind when using this vehicle:

Stand in the correct position

• The numbered lines on the Seoul subway station floor play an important role in maintaining order. Pay attention and stand behind the lines when waiting for the train to arrive.
• Complying with this rule helps ensure safety and create ventilation for passengers.

Get on and off the train properly

• When the train arrives, wait patiently for the passengers inside to exit the train before you enter.
• Shoving or jostling is an uncivilized action and can endanger others.

Respect the elderly, people with disabilities and pregnant women

• Seoul subway cars often have areas reserved for the elderly, people with disabilities, and pregnant women.
• Please observe and give way to people who need to use this area.
• Showing the respect and spirit of solidarity is a cultural beauty that needs to be preserved.

Use civilized escalators

• When moving on the escalator, stand to the right if you are not in a hurry.
• Giving way to someone who wants to go faster shows respect and a spirit of cooperation.

Maintain hygiene and public order

• Avoid making noise, talking loudly on the phone or listening to music at high volume.
• Avoid eating and drinking on the train to maintain general hygiene.

Following these simple rules will not only help you have a safe and comfortable trip, but it will also show respect for the local culture and people. Remember these things to contribute to creating a beautiful image of tourists when traveling to Seoul.

Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky Ticket

Facilities for Tourists at Seoul Subway Stations

Eating and Drinking

Most subway stations in Seoul have convenience stores and restaurants. So if you’re in need of a snack or want to eat before heading to the next station, you won’t have to find too long.

Luggage Lockers

Lotte World Ticket in Seoul

If you’ve done a lot of shopping or have an appointment after work, you can leave your items in the lockers at most stations for about 2 to 4 hours! There are three sizes to choose from, and you can pay with your convenient T-Money card!

Children’s Room

New mothers can find comfort in knowing that Seoul understands their needs. Only a few stations have baby rooms, you can locate them online.

Elevator

You no longer have to worry about carrying a heavy suitcase to or from the airport! There are quite a few escalators in each station.

Wheelchair Accessible Elevator

If you’re traveling with someone in a wheelchair, be sure to check the map for stations with wheelchair lifts. Your journey will be much simpler.

Bicycle Parking & Parking Rates

One way to get to the nearest station with bike racks and parking! To check which stations have these, check out this virtual map.

What do you need to prepare before traveling on your own to Seoul, Korea?

T-Money Card

Buy yourself a T-Money card now before you start your journey in Seoul! The card comes pre-topped up with 5,000 KRW, perfect for use on your first trip from the KTX train station at Seoul airport. You can get the card by using the voucher at 4 spots in the airport.

Discover Seoul Pass

More than just a travel card, the Discover Seoul Pass also gives you many flexible options with 24-hour, 48-hour, 72-hour packages. The great thing is that you can use this card as a T-Money card, making it more convenient to travel.

Simply top up your card at any subway station, and you can explore a list of 35 free attractions and discount stores! For BTS fans, you may want to quickly get your hands on the limited edition BTS Discover Seoul Pass.

4G WiFi Device

No more worrying about losing connection when you step out of your hotel in Seoul! Order a pocket WiFi device now to stay connected to metro apps and social networks.

With this pocket WiFi, you can freely explore the city without worrying about finding your way around or having trouble accessing information. Don’t miss any of the exciting attractions, restaurants, or events – experience Seoul in the most convenient way!

Now you have mastered how to use the subway in Seoul when traveling on your own. Don’t miss any exciting activities, great culinary locations or exciting entertainment experiences in the land of Kim Chi!

The post first appeared on Klook Vietnam and was translated by Living Nomads. If you find any images or text that belong to you, please contact us, so we can credit you or give us permission to use them. Thank you very much!

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