South Korea offers a lot of easy ways to get around, whether you’re exploring cities like Seoul or visiting scenic countryside areas. With its efficient public transport, affordable taxis, and the option to rent a car for more remote trips, you’ll have plenty of choices. Let’s break down everything you need to know about getting around South Korea.
Public Transportation in South Korea
South Korea has one of the best public transport systems in the world. It’s fast, reliable, and very affordable. Many locals rely on it daily, so you’ll have no trouble using it for your travels.
Subway
Most major cities, including Seoul, Busan, and Daegu, have extensive subway networks. The subway is a great option for both tourists and locals because it’s quick, inexpensive, and well-connected. Most signs and announcements are in English as well as Korean.
Fares are typically between 1,250 and 1,450 KRW for most city rides, but longer routes can cost more. You can pay for the subway using a rechargeable T-money card. These cards can be purchased at convenience stores and subway stations. They also work on buses and some taxis.
Buses
Buses are another reliable option in South Korea. Buses in major cities come in different types: standard buses and express buses. Express buses tend to cover long-distance routes at a slightly higher fare but offer a more direct journey.
Local bus fares are usually 1,200 to 1,400 KRW, and express buses can cost anywhere between 2,000 and 14,000 KRW depending on the distance. Like the subway, you can use your T-money card on city buses, making it hassle-free to switch between buses and other types of public transport.
While the buses are reliable, routes and stops can be harder to figure out for foreigners, as bus stops and announcements aren’t always in English. However, apps like Naver Maps or KakaoMap can help you navigate the bus systems easily.
KTX Trains
For longer distances, consider taking the KTX (Korea Train Express). These high-speed trains zip across the country, connecting major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Gwangju quickly. KTX tickets can range from 27,000 to 80,000 KRW, depending on the distance and class of seat you choose.
Tickets for the KTX can be purchased online, through convenience stores, or directly at train stations. If you’re planning to travel extensively between cities, booking your tickets in advance can help save some money.
Taxis in South Korea
Taxis are convenient, relatively affordable, and widely available in cities and towns across South Korea. They’re a good option if you need a faster or more direct route than public transit can offer.
The base fare for taxis starts at around 3,800 KRW for the first 2 kilometers, then it’s around 100 KRW for every extra 132 meters. This price increases slightly during nighttime hours, so expect to pay more after 12 AM.
How to Hail a Taxi
There are a few ways to catch a taxi in South Korea. You can hail one on the street, find one at a taxi queue, or book one through apps like Kakao Taxi. Kakao Taxi is similar to Uber and works well for tourists because it has an English language option.
Most taxis in big cities have meters, and while taxi drivers in Korea generally don’t speak much English, they’re used to dealing with tourists. It’s a good idea to have the address of your destination written down in Korean, especially if you aren’t familiar with the language.
Are Taxis Safe and Reliable?
Yes, taxis in South Korea are safe, and drivers are generally friendly and professional. Taxis are also metered, so you don’t need to worry about negotiating fares. Taxi scams are very rare in South Korea compared to other countries. Still, it’s always a good idea to check the meter is running when you get in.
Rideshare Services in South Korea
Uber isn’t widely available in South Korea, but don’t worry: Kakao Taxi is the main rideshare app here. The app works much like Uber, and you can easily order a ride from anywhere using your smartphone. Prices are similar to regular taxis, and payments can be made by card through the app.
How to Use Kakao Taxi
Kakao Taxi is available in English, and it’s pretty straightforward to use. You need to download the Kakao Taxi app, create an account with your phone number, and you’re good to go. If you don’t have local KRW on hand, no problem: the app allows you to pay using your credit card straight through the app interface.
Rideshare Tips
You can use Kakao Taxi in most cities, and just like with regular taxis, the service is safe and reliable. However, during peak hours, finding a car can take a little longer, and you might experience surge pricing – something to keep in mind if you’re rushing.
Car Rentals in South Korea
If you’re planning to travel off the beaten tourist path, renting a car might make sense. While public transportation is excellent, certain spots in the countryside or more remote locations are easier to reach by car.
Several major car rental companies operate in South Korea, including international brands like Avis and Hertz, as well as local ones like Lotte Rent-A-Car and SK Rent-A-Car. It’s also easy to book a rental online before you arrive.
Requirements for Renting a Car
To rent a car in South Korea, you’ll need to be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license. For foreigners, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required. Without one, you won’t be able to rent a car.
It’s recommended that you book your rental in advance. You can expect rental costs to be around 65,000 KRW per day for a standard sedan. Gas can be expensive though, ranging from 1,700 to 2,000 KRW per liter depending on where you’re driving.
Driving Conditions in South Korea
Driving in South Korea is relatively easy, especially compared to other countries in Asia. Roads are well-maintained, and traffic in the countryside is light. However, driving in cities like Seoul can be challenging, with congested streets and a few aggressive drivers.
Speed limits are strictly enforced, and there are speed cameras everywhere. The general speed limit is 50 km/h in cities and 100 to 120 km/h on highways. Make sure to stick to these limits to avoid hefty fines.
Also, many signs are in both Korean and English, so navigation isn’t as difficult as it might be in other non-English speaking countries. GPS apps like Google Maps don’t work well here, so use Korean apps like Naver Maps or KakaoMap for the best results.
Parking
Parking can be difficult and expensive in major cities, especially Seoul. You’ll find parking garages in most areas, but spaces can quickly fill up. Plan to spend around 2,000 to 5,000 KRW per hour for parking in the city.
In smaller towns or countryside areas, parking is generally free and readily available. Just remember: make sure you’re parked legally, since parking tickets happen and fines can be expensive.
Conclusion
South Korea’s transportation system is one of the easiest to use in the world. Whether you’re hopping on a subway in Seoul, booking a taxi through Kakao Taxi, or driving through the beautiful countryside in a rental car, you’ll find safe and convenient transport options everywhere you go. Use T-money cards on public transport, remember to always check the meter in taxis, and don’t forget your International Driving Permit if you plan to rent a car!
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