Transit cards and getting around
One T-money card covers subways, buses and most taxis nationwide. Knowing the transfer rules cuts your costs a lot.
Typical cost: Card KRW 3,000-5,000 plus top-ups · Time needed: 10 minutes
Steps
- Buy T-money at a convenience store — CU, GS25 and 7-Eleven sell T-money or Cashbee cards and top them up in cash.
- Consider a monthly pass — If you commute daily in Seoul, an unlimited pass is cheaper. Products vary by region.
- Always tag out — Transfer discounts only apply if you tag the card when leaving. Skipping it adds a penalty on your next ride.
- Install a Korean map app — Google Maps has limited walking and driving directions here. Use Naver Map or KakaoMap.
What to bring
- Cash for top-ups
- Smartphone
Good to know
- Kakao T is the standard taxi app and charges your registered card automatically.
- Book KTX trains on the Korail app and intercity buses on TMONEY GO.
Official sources
Visa, tax and legal rules change often. This page is general information — always confirm with the official bodies linked above.