How to Use the Subway in Korea – A Simple Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Travelers

 

How to Use the Subway in Korea

– A Simple Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Travelers

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Korea’s subway system is clean, fast, and cheap.

It covers major cities like Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, and Gwangju.

But with so many lines and exits,

riding it for the first time can feel overwhelming.

This guide will help you ride the subway confidently—even if you don’t speak Korean.

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1. Where can I check subway lines?

Download Naver Map or KakaoMap (both support English)

Or use the app Subway Korea

These apps show all lines, directions, transfers, and even real-time arrival info.

> Example: Type “Myeongdong → Gwanghwamun”

You’ll see which line to take, when the next train arrives, and where to exit.

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2. How much is the subway fare?

Base fare: ₩1,400

Pay with a T-money card (available at convenience stores)

Or use credit/debit card with PayWave/NFC

1-time tickets can be bought at vending machines in most stations

Tip: T-money cards can also be used for buses and convenience stores.

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3. How to ride the subway?

1. Tap your card at the gate

2. Follow signs to the correct platform (check train direction!)

3. Wait in line, let people exit first

4. Board and check screen announcements for next station

5. Exit quickly and tap your card again at the gate

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4. How do transfers work?

Look for signs that say “Transfer”

No need to tap again—your transfer is calculated automatically

Some transfer corridors are long, so allow extra walking time

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5. How to find the right exit?

Use apps to check which exit number is closest to your destination

Stations can have more than 10 exits

Follow signs like “Exit 6 →” inside the station

> Example: Lotte Department Store in Myeongdong = Exit 6

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6. Train Tips You Should Know

Priority Seats (gray or red) are for the elderly, disabled, and pregnant

→ Even if empty, don’t sit there

Pregnancy Seats are marked in pink

→ These are reserved—leave them available at all times

Cool/Warm Train Cars

“Strong A/C car” = colder car (marked near the door)

“Mild A/C car” = for those sensitive to cold

→ Pick your comfort zone before boarding

Use subway station maps near the entrance to check train direction and exit numbers.

These maps are usually placed on the wall next to ticket gates.

No eating or loud phone calls allowed

→ Use headphones and keep your phone on silent

Avoid rush hours if possible

Morning: 7am–9am / Evening: 6pm–8pm

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A Personal Note

I love traveling,

but solo travel always felt a little scary and confusing to me.

If you feel the same way—you’re not alone.

That’s why I started this blog.

To help people explore Korea with less fear, more confidence,

and to know someone’s got their back.

If you have any questions,

drop a comment—I’ll do my best to answer with care.