Are you planning a trip to Seoul and wondering how to get around this vibrant, bustling metropolis? Seoul’s public transportation system is one of the world’s best—efficient, affordable, and extensive. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, mastering public transport in Seoul can save you time, money, and stress. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from subway lines and bus routes to the latest 2025 updates like the new Hangang Bus water service and the Climate Card. By the end, you’ll feel confident navigating Seoul like a local.
Seoul, home to over 10 million people, boasts a network that includes subways, buses, taxis, bikes, and even ferries. With more than 8 million daily subway passengers alone, it’s a lifeline for residents and tourists alike. The system is clean, punctual, and integrated, allowing seamless transfers between modes. Plus, with recent expansions and eco-friendly initiatives, 2025 is an exciting year for public transport in Seoul. Let’s dive in.
Overview of Seoul’s Public Transportation System
Seoul’s public transport is a model of urban efficiency. The backbone is the Seoul Metropolitan Subway, which spans 23 lines and over 700 stations across the city and into surrounding areas like Incheon and Gyeonggi Province. This makes it one of the busiest and most extensive systems globally, rivaling those in Tokyo or New York.
Complementing the subway are thousands of buses—over 7,000 in operation—covering every nook and cranny. Buses are color-coded for easy identification: blue for main trunk routes, green for feeder lines, yellow for circular routes in the city center, and red for express services to suburbs.
Other options include taxis (affordable and plentiful), public bikes (Ttareungi), and the newly launched Hangang Bus, a water ferry service on the Han River that started in September 2025. This service connects seven piers with 14 daily trips from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., using eight ferries—perfect for scenic rides.
Integration is key: Use a single card for subways, buses, bikes, and even some taxis. Transfers are often free or discounted, making multi-modal trips straightforward. In 2025, the system continues to evolve with new line extensions, like the Dongtan Metro trams opening by 2027 and subway expansions starting construction this year.
Why choose public transport? It’s eco-friendly, avoids traffic jams, and is far cheaper than rideshares. A single subway ride costs as little as 1,400 KRW (about $1 USD), and unlimited passes make it even more budget-friendly.
Essential Transportation Cards: T-Money, Climate Card, and Alternatives
No guide to public transportation in Seoul would be complete without discussing cards—these are your ticket to hassle-free travel.
The T-Money Card is the go-to for most users. It’s a reloadable smart card usable on subways, buses, taxis, and even convenience stores. Buy it at subway stations, convenience stores like CU or GS25, or airports for around 2,500-4,000 KRW (non-refundable card fee). Load it with cash or via apps. Benefits include a 100 KRW discount per ride and free transfers within 30 minutes (up to 1 hour late at night, within 10 km).
For tourists, the M-Pass variant allows up to 20 rides per day for 1-7 days, starting at 10,000 KRW for a 1-day pass. It’s activated on first use and expires at midnight.
A 2025 highlight is the Seoul Climate Card, an unlimited-ride pass for subways, buses, Ttareungi bikes, and the Hangang Bus. Valid for 1, 3, 5, 7, or 30 days, it starts at 20,000 KRW for one day. It’s eco-focused, promoting sustainable travel, and available via Klook or at select locations. Note: It doesn’t cover airport trains or intercity travel.
Alternatives include the Cashbee Card, similar to T-Money but issued by different companies—interoperable across most services. For longer stays, the RailPlus Card works on trains and local transport.
Pro tip: Register your card online for discounts if you’re a youth or senior. Refunds for remaining balances (under 20,000 KRW) are available at convenience stores; higher amounts at T-Money headquarters. Cashless buses expanded in 2023, so cards or mobile QR codes are essential—no more cash on many routes.
Mastering the Seoul Subway: Lines, Maps, and How to Ride
The Seoul subway is a marvel—fast, frequent, and foreigner-friendly. Trains run every 2-5 minutes during peak hours, from about 5:30 a.m. to midnight. Each of the 23 lines has a distinct color and number, like Line 1 (dark blue) or Line 2 (green, a massive loop around central Seoul).
To ride:
- Buy or tap your card at the fare gates.
- Follow signs to your platform—English, Chinese, and Japanese translations are everywhere.
- Board the train; announcements are multilingual.
- Exit and tap out to deduct the fare.
Maps are available at stations or via apps. Download the interactive map from Seoul Metro’s site for planning. Key lines for tourists:
- Line 2: Circles major spots like Gangnam, Hongdae, and Myeongdong.
- Line 4: Connects to Gwanghwamun and Dongdaemun.
- Airport Railroad (AREX): Direct from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station (43 minutes express).
Fares are distance-based: Base 1,400 KRW (card) for 10 km, plus 100 KRW per 5 km up to 50 km. Single-use tickets cost 100 KRW more and include a 500 KRW refundable deposit.
2025 updates include extensions: Incheon Line 1 north by June, Wirye Line in September, and more construction starting for lines like Seobu and Myeonmok. Transfers between lines are free with a card.
Decoding Seoul’s Bus System: Types, Routes, and Tips
Buses fill the gaps where subways don’t reach, offering scenic views and direct routes.
Types by color:
- Blue Buses: Long-distance trunk lines connecting suburbs to downtown (e.g., 401 from Gangnam to Seoul Station).
- Green Buses: Feeder routes linking residential areas to subways or major hubs.
- Yellow Buses: Circular routes in central Seoul, great for sightseeing.
- Red Buses: Express to satellite cities like Suwon.
- Maeul Buses: Small green village buses for short, local trips.
- Late-Night Buses: Owl services after midnight.
To board: Check routes via apps, wave down the bus, tap your card when entering (front door), and tap out when exiting (front or back). Fares: 1,500 KRW for blue/green (adult card), up to 3,000 KRW for red. Early bird discounts (20% off after 6:30 a.m.) apply.
The Bus Information System provides real-time arrivals via apps or station displays. Transfers: Up to four free within time limits.
In 2025, more cashless buses mean cards are mandatory on many lines.
Other Modes: Taxis, Public Bikes, and the New Hangang Bus
For flexibility, hail a taxi—regular (orange) start at 4,800 KRW, deluxe (black) at 7,000 KRW. Late-night surcharges apply. International taxis offer English support.
Ttareungi Bikes: Rent via app for 1,000 KRW/hour. Included in Climate Card.
The Hangang Bus is 2025’s novelty: Ferry rides on the Han River for 2,000-3,000 KRW, integrated with cards.
Best Apps and Tools for Navigation
Forget Google Maps—use Naver Map or Kakao Map for real-time routes, including walking directions. They show bus stops, subway exits, and even taxi estimates. Other apps: Seoul Subway for metro-specific info, T-Money app for balances.
For English users, the Seoul Public Transportation website offers route planning.
Fares, Payments, and Discounts
Base fares:
- Subway: 1,400-1,500 KRW
- Bus: 1,200-3,000 KRW by type
- Discounts for teens (13-18: ~800 KRW), children (6-12: ~500 KRW), and seniors.
Pay with cards, mobile (T-Money Pay), or QR codes. No cash on cashless buses. Unlimited passes like Climate Card save big for heavy users.
Etiquette and Safety Tips
- Stand on the right of escalators; walk left.
- Priority seats for elderly, pregnant, disabled.
- No eating/drinking; keep quiet.
- Women-only cars during rush hour.
- Masks may be recommended; stations have free Wi-Fi.
Safety: Well-lit, CCTV-monitored. Report issues via 112.
Accessibility Features
Seoul’s system is inclusive: Elevators/escalators in most stations, low-floor buses, audio guides for visually impaired. Wheelchair rentals at major hubs. Apps highlight accessible routes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not tapping out: Overcharges.
- Wrong bus direction: Check signs.
- Peak-hour crowds: Avoid 7-9 a.m./5-7 p.m.
- Forgetting to recharge card.
- Relying on Google Maps: Switch to Naver/Kakao.
Plan ahead, and you’ll be fine.
Conclusion: Embrace Seoul’s Transport for an Unforgettable Trip
Public transportation in Seoul is more than a way to get around—it’s part of the experience. With 2025 bringing greener options like the Climate Card and Hangang Bus, there’s never been a better time to explore. Whether shopping in Myeongdong or hiking Bukhansan, let the system take you there affordably and efficiently. Safe travels!