Ultimate Guide to Korea Subway: Navigation, Tips, and Top 3 Essential Apps
1. World-Class Subway, But a Giant Maze for Beginners
The subway system in Korea, especially Seoul, is consistently ranked as the world's cleanest and most punctual. However, for a first-time visitor, the 9+ lines and complex underground walkways can feel like a labyrinth. Getting on the wrong train or losing your way at a transfer station can waste hours of your precious travel time.
This guide is designed to empower you to use the Korean subway with confidence. We’ve broken down everything from purchasing tickets to the art of transferring and the secret apps used by locals.
2. First Steps: Tickets and Transportation Cards
Instead of paper tickets, using a 'Transportation Card' is more economical and efficient in Korea.
T-money Card: A prepaid card available at convenience stores or subway vending machines. It works for subways, buses, taxis, and even convenience store purchases.
Single Journey Ticket: If you don't have a card, you can buy these at the station. However, you must return it to a deposit refund machine to get your 500 KRW back—it's a hassle.
Climate Card (Tourist Version): For tourists staying in Seoul, short-term unlimited passes (1-day, 3-day, etc.) are available and highly recommended for budget-conscious travelers.
3. Top 3 Essential Apps to Avoid Getting Lost
Google Maps is not very accurate in Korea. You MUST install these local apps:
Naver Map: Offers excellent English support. It provides precise walking directions and integrated subway-bus routes.
Kakao Map: A great alternative to Naver, popular for its detailed user reviews of nearby restaurants and landmarks.
Subway Korea: Focuses entirely on the subway. It tells you exactly which car to board for the "fastest transfer," saving you a lot of walking underground.
4. The Art of Transferring and Etiquette
Check the "Fast Transfer" Door Number: Subway apps will tell you which car and door to board (e.g., Car 4, Door 3) so that you are right in front of the stairs when you get off. This is a life-saver if you have heavy luggage.
Don't Panic on the Wrong Platform: If you accidentally enter the wrong direction, many stations allow you to exit and re-enter on the opposite side within 5 minutes for free.
Special Seating: Pink seats are for pregnant women, and seats at the ends of the cars are for the elderly. Even if they are empty, it is polite to leave them for those in need.
5. 3 Critical Mistakes to Avoid
Express vs. All-stop Trains: Some lines (like Line 9 or Line 1) have "Express" trains that skip certain stations. Always double-check if your destination is an Express stop.
Verify Exit Numbers: Major stations have dozens of exits. Check your exit number in the app before heading upstairs to avoid walking blocks in the wrong direction.
Transfer Discounts: When moving from subway to bus, always tap your card when getting off. This ensures you get a "Transfer Discount," making the next leg of your journey nearly free.
