South Korea Transportation System Guide | South Korea Transportation System

This guide provides an overview of the South Korea Transportation System, detailing various methods to effectively navigate the country. Use this resource to understand available travel options in South Korea.

South Korea Transportation System Guide | South Korea Transportation System

Getting Around Korean Cities

Navigating cities in South Korea is generally very straightforward and efficient, thanks to well-integrated public transport systems. Here’s a look at your main options:

• Subways (지하철 – Jihacheol):
  • Coverage: Major cities like Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Incheon, Gwangju, and Daejeon boast extensive subway networks. Seoul’s subway, in particular, is one of the largest and busiest in the world, reaching almost every corner of the metropolitan area and even connecting to nearby cities.
  • How to Use: Station signs, train announcements, and onboard displays are usually available in Korean and English (sometimes Chinese and Japanese too). Follow the signs for your line number/color and direction. Tap your transportation card on the reader when entering and exiting the gates, as fares are distance-based.
  • Payment: The most common payment method is a reloadable transportation card like T-Money or Cashbee. You can buy and recharge these cards at convenience stores (like CU, GS25, 7-Eleven) and subway station machines. Single-journey tickets are also available from station machines, but they require a small deposit that you get back when you return the card upon exiting. Using a transportation card is cheaper due to transfer discounts.
  • Tips: Download a subway map app like Kakao Metro or Naver Maps – they are incredibly helpful for planning routes, checking real-time train info, and estimating travel times. Avoid rush hours (roughly 7-9 AM and 6-8 PM) if possible, as trains can get very crowded.
• City Buses (버스 – Beoseu):
  • Coverage: Buses fill the gaps where subways don’t reach and offer extensive coverage within cities and surrounding areas. They are color-coded in many cities (like Seoul) to indicate their route type: Blue buses run on major roads across long distances, Green buses connect subway stations to neighborhoods, Red buses are express buses travelling between Seoul and satellite cities, and Yellow buses run circula
  • How to Use: Bus stops usually list the numbers of buses that stop there and their main destinations (though sometimes only in Korean). When your bus arrives, board through the front door and tap your transportation card on the reader. Make sure to tap again on the rear door reader before you get off to ensure you get transfer discounts if applicable. Press the red ‘stop’ button (벨 – bel) located on the handrails when you hear your stop announced or see it displayed.
  • Payment: T-Money/Cashbee cards are the preferred method. You can pay with cash, but you won’t get transfer discounts, and you’ll need exact change or small bills. Drivers often don’t carry much change.
  • Tips: Bus routes can feel a bit more complex than subways for first-timers. Using apps like Naver Map or Kakao Map is highly recommended as they show bus routes, real-time locations, and expected arrival times. Be aware that bus drivers can sometimes drive quite dynamically!
• Taxis (택시 – Taeksi):
  • Availability: Taxis are abundant in cities and relatively affordable compared to many Western countries. You can hail them on the street (look for the red light in the windshield indicating they are vacant – 빈차 bincha), find them at taxi stands, or call one using an app (like Kakao T).
  • Types & Fares: Standard taxis are typically silver, white or orange. There are also “Mobeom” (Deluxe) taxis, usually black with a yellow stripe, which offer more space and higher service standards at a higher fare. Fares start with a base amount and increase based on distance and time. There’s a late-night surcharge (usually midnight to 4 AM).
  • Payment: Most taxis accept cash, credit cards, and T-Money transportation cards. It’s good practice to confirm B Tips: Have your destination address written down in Korean if possible, or use a map on your phone. While many drivers are using navigation systems, showing the exact location helps avoid confusion. Kakao T is incredibly useful for calling taxis, as it shows the fare estimate, driver information, and route, and allows in-app payment. Tipping is not customary.

Traveling Between Cities

Moving between different cities and regions in South Korea is efficient, with several reliable options catering to various budgets and travel styles.

Trains (기차 – Gicha)

Korea Railroad Corporation (Korail) operates the national railway network, offering different classes of service connecting major cities across the country.

• KTX (Korea Train eXpress):
  • Speed & Coverage: South Korea’s high-speed rail service, KTX, is the fastest way to travel long distances by land. Major lines connect Seoul to Busan, Mokpo, Yeosu, Gangneung, and Andong, significantly reducing travel times (e.g., Seoul to Busan in about 2.5 – 3 hours).
  • Booking: Reservations are highly recommended, especially during weekends, holidays, and peak seasons. You can book online via the Korail website (Let’s Korail), the KorailTalk mobile app, or at KORAIL stations. Booking is typically available one month in advance.
  • Classes: Offers First Class (larger seats, more legroom, complimentary snacks) and Standard Class.
  • Cost: KTX is the most expensive train option, but offers speed and comfort.
  • Facilities: Trains are modern with power outlets, restrooms, snack vending machines or carts, and free Wi-Fi (though connectivity can be spotty).
• ITX (Intercity Train eXpress):
  • Speed & Coverage: Faster than conventional trains but slower than KTX, ITX trains (like ITX-Saemaeul and ITX-Cheongchun) serve routes not covered by KTX or offer a slightly slower service on some main lines. The ITX-Cheongchun line is popular for connecting Seoul to Gapyeong (for Nami Island) and Chuncheon.
  • Booking: Similar booking methods as KTX. Reservations are recommended.
  • Cost: Mid-range price, offering a good balance between speed and cost compared to KTX and Mugunghwa.
• Mugunghwa-ho & Nuriro:
  • Speed & Coverage: These are the slowest conventional trains, stopping at more smaller towns and cities along the way. They offer wider coverage than KTX but travel times are significantly longer.
  • Booking: Reservations are possible but often less critical than for KTX/ITX, except on very popular routes or during peak times.
  • Cost: The most economical train option.
  • Facilities: Basic amenities, suitable for shorter trips or budget travel where time is not a major constraint. Nuriro trains are generally newer than Mugunghwa.
• Korail Pass: This is a rail pass for foreign visitors, offering unlimited travel on most Korail trains (including KTX) for a set period (e.g., 2, 3, 4, or 5 consecutive days, or flexible options). It can be cost-effective if you plan multiple long-distance train journeys. Purchase online beforehand and validate it in Korea.

Express Buses | Intercity Buses

An extensive network of express (고속버스 – Gosok Bus) and intercity (시외버스 – Sioe Bus) buses connects virtually every town and city in Korea.

• Coverage: Comprehensive network reaching large cities and smaller towns often not served directly by the rail network. Bus terminals are usually located centrally within cities.
• Comfort Levels: Buses vary:
  • Ilban (Standard): Basic seating, usually 4 seats across.
  • Udeung (Excellent/Deluxe): More comfortable with wider, reclining seats, typically 3 seats across. Worth the extra cost for longer journeys.
  • Premium: Available on some key routes, offering almost fully reclining seats, privacy partitions, personal entertainment screens, and enhanced comfort.
• Frequency & Scheduling: Departures are frequent on major routes (e.g., Seoul-Busan). Minor routes might have less frequent schedules.
• Booking: Tickets can be bought at bus terminal counters. Online booking is available through sites like Kobus (for express buses) and Bustago (for intercity buses), though these sites might be less user-friendly for non-Korean speakers. Booking in advance is wise for holidays and weekends.
• Cost: Generally cheaper than KTX, especially the standard buses. Udeung and Premium buses are priced higher but often still less than corresponding KTX fares.
• Tips: Journey times can be longer than trains and susceptible to traffic delays, especially during peak holiday periods. Terminals can be large; arrive with enough time to find your departure gate. Main terminals often have English signage, but smaller ones may not.

Domestic Flights

While trains and buses cover most mainland travel needs efficiently, flights are practical for certain routes.

• Key Routes: Primarily used for travel between the mainland and Jeju Island. Also connect Seoul (Gimpo Airport – GMP) to Busan (Gimhae Airport – PUS) and other regional airports like Yeosu, Ulsan, and Gwangju.
• Airlines: Major carriers include Korean Air and Asiana Airlines, alongside numerous Low-Cost Carriers (LCCs) like Jeju Air, Jin Air, Air Busan, T’way Air, and Eastar Jet making flights very competitive, especially to Jeju.
• Booking: Book flights well in advance, particularly for Jeju routes during peak season, through airline websites or travel aggregators.
• Cost: Can be very cheap, especially with LCCs if booked ahead, sometimes even rivaling KTX fares for Seoul-Busan. Factor in time and cost traveling to/from airports.

Ferries

Ferries are essential for reaching Korea’s many islands.

• Major Routes: Include Incheon to various West Sea islands, Mokpo/Wando/Yeosu to islands in the south, and Pohang/Donghae to Ulleungdo. The most popular route is arguably from various southern ports (Mokpo, Wando, Busan) to Jeju Island, though this is a much longer journey than flying.
• Booking: Reservations are often needed, especially for vehicle transport or overnight cabins. Websites and terminal counters are primary booking methods.
• Tips: Schedules can be affected by weather conditions. Car ferries are available on many routes if you plan to drive on the islands.

Essential Payment Methods

Transportation Cards (T-Money / Cashbee)

These rechargeable cards are ubiquitous and highly recommended for simplifying travel within and sometimes between cities.

• Universality: T-Money (widely popular, based in Seoul) and Cashbee (popular in the southern regions like Busan) are accepted interchangeably on nearly all city buses and subways nationwide. They can also be used in most taxis and even for purchases at affiliated convenience stores, vending machines, and some lockers.
• Cost Savings: Using these cards offers discounts compared to single-journey subway tickets and enables free or discounted transfers between buses and subways (or bus-to-bus, subway-to-subway) within a certain time limit (usually 30 minutes, longer during evenings/weekends). You must tap out when exiting buses or subway stations to be eligible for transfers.
• Acquisition & Recharging: Easily purchased (usually around ₩2,500 – ₩4,000 for the card itself, plus initial load amount) and recharged with cash at subway station vending machines, convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven, Ministop, Emart24), and some bank ATMs. Machines typically offer instructions in English.
• Mobile Options: Mobile versions (Mobile T-Money/Cashbee) are available via apps for users with compatible Android phones (requires NFC) and a Korean SIM card/bank account, allowing tapping with the phone. Tourist-specific mobile card options might emerge, but physical cards are the most reliable.
• Refunds: You can get refunds for the remaining balance (minus a small service fee) at convenience stores (for balances under a certain amount, e.g., ₩20,000 or ₩30,000) or T-Money service desks at major subway stations before leaving Korea. The initial cost of the card itself is usually non-refundable.

Credit / Debit Cards

• Usage: Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard are widely accepted) can be used for booking trains (KTX, ITX), flights, ferries online, and for purchasing tickets at station counters or major bus terminals. They are also accepted in most taxis.
• Note: While some newer subway gates or bus terminals might allow direct tapping with foreign contactless credit/debit cards (EMV), this functionality isn’t universally guaranteed across all systems or card types. Relying on a T-Money/Cashbee card for daily public transport is much smoother.

General Tips & Etiquette

Navigation is Key

• Must-Have Apps: Kakao Map and Naver Map are indispensable. They provide detailed maps, accurate public transport directions (including real-time bus/subway arrivals), walking routes, estimated travel times, and taxi hailing integration (especially Kakao T via Kakao Map). Google Maps has limited functionality for driving/walking directions in Korea due to security restrictions but can be somewhat useful for general location finding and subway info.
• Station & Stop IDs: Public transit stops (bus and subway) often have unique ID numbers displayed. Entering these into Naver/Kakao Map can help pinpoint your exact location or desired stop.

Transit Etiquette

• Queuing: People generally queue politely for buses and stand behind marked lines on subway platforms. Allow passengers to exit before boarding.
• Seating: Designated priority seats (often distinctively colored) are reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, passengers with disabilities, and those travelling with young children. Avoid using these unless you belong to one of these groups. It’s considered polite, though not strictly enforced on non-priority seats, to offer your seat to those who may need it more.
• Noise: Keep phone calls and conversations at a low volume. Watching videos or listening to music should be done with headphones.
• Food & Drink: While light snacks or closed drinks might be tolerated on longer train rides (KTX/ITX), eating pungent food or open drinks particularly on crowded subways and buses is generally frowned upon or even prohibited (e.g., carrying take-away coffee onto Seoul buses is restricted).
• Backpacks: In crowded trains or buses, it’s considerate to wear your backpack on your front or place it by your feet to avoid bumping into others.

Driving in Korea | Renting a Car

Driving yourself can offer flexibility, especially for exploring rural areas or regions less accessible by public transport. However, navigating cities can be challenging due to traffic and parking.

Renting a Car

• Requirements: You typically need an International Driving Permit (IDP) based on the 1949 Geneva Convention or 1968 Vienna Convention (check which your country issues and Korea accepts), your valid domestic driver’s license (held for at least one year), and your passport. The minimum driving age is usually 21, sometimes higher depending on the rental company and car class. A valid credit card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit.
• Companies: Major international chains (Hertz, Avis) operate alongside large Korean companies like Lotte Rent-a-Car and SK Rent-a-car. Booking FCar Types: A range of vehicles is available, from compact cars suitable for navigating narrow streets to larger sedans and SUVs. Automatic transmission is standard. Consider GPS navigation (often included or available for rent, supporting English) and a dashcam recorder (하이패스 – haipaeseu) for automatic toll payments.

Roads, Tolls & Rules

• Road Conditions: Highways and major roads are generally well-maintained. City streets can be narrow and congested. Rural roads might be less developed.
• Driving Side: Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
• Speed Limits: Typically 50-60 km/h in cities, 80 km/h on national roads, and 100-110 km/h on expressways (always check posted signs). Speed cameras are ubiquitous.
• Tolls: Most expressways (고속도로 – gosokdoro) are tolled. Payment can be made with cash, T-Money card (if sufficient balance), credit card, or via a Hi-Pass electronic toll collection device in equipped rental cars (settled upon return).
• Navigation: Rely heavily on GPS navigation apps (Naver Map, Kakao Map provide driving directions) or the car’s built-in system. Road signs on major routes often include English, but minor roads may only have Korean signage.

Parking (주차 – Jucha)

• Challenges: Parking can be difficult and expensive in major cities like Seoul and Busan. Street parking is often restricted; look carefully for signs (which may be only in Korean).
• Options: Utilize paid parking lots (public or private) or parking garages affiliated with attractions, shopping malls, or hotels. Parking fees vary significantly by location and duration. Illegal parking can result in fines and potentially towing. Apps like Kakao T Parking can help locate and sometimes pre-book spots.

Other Transport Options

Cycling (자전거 – Jajeongeo)

• City Bike Rentals: Many cities offer public bike-sharing systems. Seoul Bike (따릉이 – Ttareungi) is widespread and easy to use via an app, offering affordable short-term rentals. Look for similar systems in other cities.
• Long-Distance: Dedicated cycling paths exist, notably along major rivers like the Han River in Seoul and extensive cross-country routes, popular for leisure and dedicated cycle tourism.

Walking

• Feasibility: Korean cities are generally very walkable, especially within specific districts or neighborhoods. It’s often the best way to explore markets, historical areas, and appreciate the local atmosphere. Ensure you have comfortable footwear.

By understanding these various transportation methods and tips, navigating South Korea, whether within its bustling cities or across its scenic countryside, can be a convenient and rewarding experience.

Accessibility Concerns

While South Korea is continuously improving accessibility, travelers with mobility challenges should be aware of the varying conditions across different transport modes and locations.

On Subways

• Elevators and Lifts: Most subway stations in major cities, especially newer ones or those recently renovated, are equipped with elevators from the street level to the concourse and down to the platforms. However, finding them may sometimes require navigating longer routes within the station compared to stairs or escalators. Older stations might have limited elevator access.
• Platform Gaps: Be mindful of the gap between the platform and the train. Some stations have narrower gaps than others.
• Designated Spaces: Trains usually have designated spaces for wheelchairs and strollers, often near specific doors marked on the platform.
• Announcements: Audio and visual announcements for upcoming stops are standard in multiple languages.
• Planning: Apps like Kakao Metro often provide specific accessibility information, such as elevator locations within stations.

On Buses

• Low-Floor Buses: Cities are increasingly introducing low-floor buses equipped with ramps, primarily on major routes (e.g., Blue buses in Seoul). However, not all buses are low-floor, especially older models or those serving suburban/rural routes.
• Securing Wheelchairs: Designated spaces and securing mechanisms for wheelchairs are present on low-floor buses, but usage may require coordination with the driver.
• Bus Stops: Accessibility can vary; some stops might lack level access from the sidewalk.

On Trains (KTX, ITX, etc.)

• Station Accessibility: Major train stations (like Seoul Station, Busan Station) generally have good accessibility with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms. Smaller rural stations may have limitations.
• Train Accessibility: KTX and newer ITX trains typically have designated wheelchair spaces and accessible restrooms. It’s advisable to book these spaces in advance through Korail customer service or ticket counters, specifying accessibility needs.
• Boarding Assistance: Korail staff can often provide boarding and alighting assistance if requested in advance.

General Tips for Accessibility

• Advance Planning: Research routes and station accessibility beforehand using apps or official transport websites.
• Contact Services: Don’t hesitate to contact Korail or local transit authorities for specific accessibility information or assistance requests. Allow extra travel time.

Safety & Security Tips

South Korea is generally a very safe country with low crime rates, including on its public transportation systems. However, standard precautions are always sensible.

On Public Transport

• Valuables: Keep wallets, phones, and passports secure, especially in crowded conditions during rush hour. Be mindful of your belongings.
• Lost and Found: Major subway systems and Korail have dedicated lost and found centers. Contact the station office immediately if you lose something. Retrieving items can sometimes involve navigating Korean-language websites or phone lines, though station staff may assist.
• Emergency: Emergency intercoms or buttons are present in subway cars and on platforms. Emergency numbers are 112 (Police) and 119 (Fire and Medical Emergencies).

In Taxis

• Verified Taxis: Use clearly marked official taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps like Kakao T, which track the journey and driver details.
• Fare Meter: Ensure the driver starts the meter at the beginning of the ride. Note the late-night surcharge times if applicable.
• Route: Following the route on your own map app can help prevent misunderstandings or unnecessarily long routes.

General Precautions

• Awareness: Be aware of your surroundings, particularly late at night or in less crowded areas.
• Scams: While rare, be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help that seems suspicious.

Luggage Storage | Solutions

Traveling with luggage is manageable thanks to various storage options available throughout the country.

At Stations

• Lockers: Coin lockers (물품보관함 – mul품 bo관ham) are widely available at most subway stations and nearly all train stations.
  • Sizes: Usually come in small, medium, and large sizes, suitable for backpacks up to medium-sized suitcases. Extra-large lockers for bulky luggage may be less common.
  • Payment: Payment methods vary. Older lockers might only accept cash (specific coins needed), while newer ones accept T-Money/Cashbee cards, local credit/debit cards, or mobile payments. F Instructions are often available in English.
  • Duration: Typically charged in blocks (e.g., first 4 hours, then per additional hour or 12/24-hour block). Overnight storage is possible but check the maximum duration allowed.
• Luggage Storage Services: Some major train stations (like Seoul Station) offer manned luggage storage services, which might accommodate larger items or offer longer storage periods than standard lockers. Fees are usually based on size and duration.

At Airports

• Lockers & Services: Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP), as well as major regional airports, offer both lockers and dedicated luggage storage counters/services for short-term or longer-term storage.

Private Services

• Luggage Delivery: Services exist (e.g., deliver luggage between airports/hotels or major train stations), which can be convenient if you want to start exploring immediately upon arrival without your bags. Search for “luggage delivery Korea” online.

Notes on Travel Timing

Understanding how seasons and holidays impact travel can help in planning a smoother trip.

Peak Holiday Travel

• Major Holidays: The two biggest travel periods are Seollal (Lunar New Year, usually Jan/Feb) and Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving, usually Sep/Oct). Dates vary each year based on the lunar calendar.
• Impact: Expect massive domestic travel. Train tickets (especially KTX) sell out extremely quickly, often months or weeks in advance as soon as booking opens. Express buses are also heavily booked. Highways experience severe traffic congestion.
• Recommendation: If travelling during these periods, book ALL intercity transport far in advance. If possible, avoid travelling on the days immediately before, during, and after the official holiday dates. Consider flying if train/bus options are unavailable. Accommodation prices also soar.

Weather Disruptions

• Summer (Typhoons/Heavy Rain): Monsoonal rains (late June-July) and occasional typhoons (July-September) can cause disruptions. Heavy rainfall can lead to localized flooding, impacting road transport (buses, taxis) and potentially causing delays or temporary closures on some train lines or slower ferries. Ferry services to islands are particularly susceptible to cancellation due to high winds and waves.
• Winter (Snow/Cold): Heavy snowfall, particularly in the northern and eastern regions (Gangwon-do), can sometimes affect road transport due to icy conditions or closures. Flights might be delayed. Trains are generally the most reliable option during heavy snow but can still experience minor delays. Ensure you have warm clothing.
• Recommendation: Check weather forecasts before traveling, especially if heading to islands or mountainous regions. Allow for flexibility in your schedule during seasons prone to severe weather. Having a reliable navigation app with real-time traffic/transit updates can help manage delays.

Airport Link | Transport

Connecting to and from South Korea’s main international gateways, primarily Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP), is straightforward with several efficient options.

Incheon Int’l Airport (ICN) Access

ICN serves as the primary international hub and is located west of Seoul.

• AREX (Airport Railroad Express): This train line connects ICN directly to Seoul Station in the city center.
  • Express Train: Non-stop service between ICN (Terminals 1 & 2) and Seoul Station. Journey time is about 43-51 minutes. Seats are reserved, more comfortable, and slightly more expensive. Wi-Fi and luggage storage are available.
  • All-Stop Train: Commuter service stopping at several stations between ICN and Seoul Station, also connecting to the Seoul subway network (e.g., Gimpo Airport, Hongik University, Digital Media City). Journey time is longer (around 60-66 minutes). Uses standard subway seating and payment is via T-Money/Cashbee or single-journey tickets (no reservation needed). It’s cheaper than the Express train.
• Airport Limousine Buses: A vast network of comfortable coach buses connects ICN to numerous destinations throughout Seoul and other major cities/regions directly.
  • Routes & Stops: Each bus route has designated stops at specific neighborhoods, hotels, or bus terminals. Signs at the airport bus stops list routes, destinations, and schedules (usually in English).
  • Fares & Payment: Fares vary depending on the destination (longer distances cost more). Payment can be made with cash, T-Money/Cashbee card, or credit card at ticket booths outside the arrivals hall or sometimes directly when boarding (check specific bus line policy).
  • Comfort: Generally comfortable seating, often with luggage storage space underneath.
• Taxis: Taxis are available directly outside the arrival terminals.
  • Cost: This is the most expensive option. Fares to central Seoul can be significant, especially with potential tolls and the late-night surcharge.
  • Ride Types: Standard, Deluxe (Mobeom), and Jumbo taxis (for more passengers/luggage) are available. Designated taxi stands indicate the type and waiting area.
  • Communication: Have your destination address in Korean if possible. Apps like Kakao T can pre-arrange pickups.

Gimpo Int’l Airport (GMP) Access

GMP handles mostly domestic flights and some short-haul international routes (e.g., to Japan, China, Taiwan). It’s located closer to western Seoul than ICN.

• Subway: GMP is directly connected to multiple Seoul subway lines: Line 5, Line 9, the AREX All-Stop train line, and the Gimpo Goldline. This makes it highly accessible from many parts of Seoul using a T-Money/Cashbee card.
• Buses: City buses and some Airport Limousine buses also serve GMP, connecting it to various parts of Seoul and surrounding areas.
• Taxis: Readily available outside the terminals. Fares to central Seoul are considerably lower than from ICN due to the shorter distance.

Basic Transport Phrases

While many signs and announcements have English, knowing a few basic Korean phrases can be helpful, especially for taxis or buses in less tourist-heavy areas. (Note: Romanization can vary slightly).

General

• Where is the…? – … eodi isseoyo? (어디 있어요?)
• Ticket – pyo (표)
• Restroom / Toilet – hwajangsil (화장실)
• Entrance – ipgu (입구)
• Exit – chulgu (출구)

Subway & Train

• Subway station – jihacheol yeok (지하철 역)
• Train station – gicha yeok (기차 역)
• Which platform? – myeot beon seunggangjang? (몇 번 승강장?)
• Transfer – hwanseung (환승)

Bus

• Bus stop – beoseu jeongnyujang (버스 정류장)
• Please stop here. – yeogiseo naeryeojuseyo. (여기서 내려주세요.) (Used especially if the stop button seems unresponsive or to alert the driver)
• Does this bus go to…? – …i beoseu … gayo? (이 버스 … 가요?) (Pointing at your destination written down helps)

Taxi

• Please take me to… (address/place) – … (eu)ro gajuseyo. (…(으)로 가주세요.) (Show address/map)
• How much is it? – eolmayeyo? (얼마예요?)
• Faster, please. – ppalli gajuseyo. (빨리 가주세요.) (Use sparingly)
• Slower, please. – cheoncheonhi gajuseyo. (천천히 가주세요.)
• Receipt, please. – yeongsujeung juseyo. (영수증 주세요.)

Regional Transport Notes

While major cities boast highly developed systems, transportation infrastructure can differ in more rural areas or on islands.

Smaller Towns

• Bus Dominance: Intercity and local county buses are often the primary mode of public transport, linking smaller towns and villages. Subway systems are absent outside major metropolitan areas.
• Frequency: Bus schedules might be less frequent compared to cities, sometimes only running a few times a day, especially on minor routes. Check schedules carefully.
• Information: English signage or announcements might be less common. Translation apps or having destinations written in Korean become more important.
• Taxis: Usually available at bus terminals or via local call services, but might not be as abundant as in cities.

Islands

• Ferries: Access typically requires ferries, whose schedules are subject to weather conditions and tides. Booking ahead, especially for popular islands or car transport, is essential.
• Island Transport: Larger islands like Jeju and Ulleungdo have their own bus networks and readily available taxis and car rentals. Smaller islands might have very limited public transport (perhaps just one or two infrequent bus routes), making walking, cycling (if terrain permits), or hiring a local taxi for tours more common. Some very small islands may require exploration entirely on foot.
• Vehicle Rental: Renting a car or scooter can offer flexibility on islands with developed road networks, but requires the appropriate license and IDP.

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