How To Use The Seoul Subway

How To Use The Seoul Subway

James Jeong
James Jeong · Updated March 2026
TransportSubwaySeoulPractical

Seoul's Subway Is Your Best Friend

Seoul's subway system is one of the best in the world. Clean, punctual, cheap and easy to navigate — even if you don't speak Korean. Here's everything you need to know.

Getting a T-Money Card

Buy a T-Money card at any convenience store (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven) near a subway station. The card costs ₩2,500 and you load credit onto it. Tap in, tap out.

Key Lines

  • Line 2 (Green Circle) — The most useful line. Loops through Hongdae, Gangnam, Jamsil and most major districts.
  • Line 6 (Brown) — Runs through Itaewon and Hannam.
  • Line 3 (Orange) — Connects to Gyeongbokgung and Bukhansan.
  • Line 4 (Blue) — Myeongdong and the university district.

    • Apps to Download

  • Naver Map — Better than Google Maps in Korea. Accurate subway directions.
  • KakaoMap — The local alternative. Both work well.
  • Subway Korea — Dedicated metro app with transfer times.

    • Etiquette

  • Stand on the right side of escalators.
  • Don't eat on the train.
  • Give up priority seats to elderly passengers.
  • Keep phone calls quiet or use messaging.

    • Hours

    Trains run from approximately **5:30 AM to midnight**. After midnight, you'll need taxis or night buses (owl buses).

    Cost

    A single journey starts at ₩1,350 with a T-Money card. Transfers between subway and bus are free within 30 minutes.

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