Transport
Buses
Seoul has an extensive and value-for-money bus system. Some bus stops have information in English, and most buses indicate the destination in English. Generally, the bus drivers do not speak English.
Make sure you hold on really tightly when you go around the corners because Korean bus drivers are fast drivers.
Buy a ‘bus carte 10’ card and ride unlimited distances for 10 bus trips.
South Korea’s bus network includes affordable and extensive city buses for local travel and intercity and express buses for connecting cities, with tickets paid via transportation cards like T-Money or cash, and booking options available through platforms like Klook or bus terminal websites like Bustago. To navigate, use navigation apps such as Naver Map and KakaoBus, which provide route information and real-time schedules in English.
Types of Buses
- City Buses:
These are numbered and color-coded for local routes. In Seoul, for instance:- Blue Buses: connect major city districts along main roads.
- Green Buses: link residential areas to subway stations and blue bus routes.
- Yellow Buses: run a circular route in the city center.
- Red Buses: (rapid buses) connect the city center to surrounding areas.
- Intercity Buses:
These connect various regions and cities, often making stops along the way. - Express Buses:
These run directly on expressways, making few stops, and offer faster travel between major cities and regions.
How to Ride a Bus
1. Tap On & Tap Off:
Use a T-money or Cashbee card (or cash for some local services) and tap it on the card reader as you board and alight to ensure correct fare calculation and free transfers between buses and subways.
2. Plan Your Route:
Use smartphone apps like Naver Map or KakaoBus to find bus numbers, real-time arrival times, and routes.
3. Find Your Stop:
Major stops are typically announced in English and Korean, and bus shelters in busy areas often have real-time screens showing upcoming arrivals.
Buying Tickets
- In Advance: Book intercity and express bus tickets online through portals like Klook or directly via bus company websites and apps such as Bustago.
- At Terminals: You can also purchase tickets at the designated bus terminals.
Bus Terminals
- Separate Terminals: Be aware that express and intercity buses may depart from different terminals, sometimes located adjacent to subway stations.
Etiquette
- Reserved Seats: Give up your seat for the elderly, pregnant individuals, or people with disabilities.
- Quiet Travel: Keep conversations quiet, as many people use the public transport system.
- No Food or Drink: Avoid eating or drinking on buses.
