Getting Around Seoul: Transportation Guide 2026
Seoul has one of the world's best public transportation systems. Here's everything you need to know for 2026.
2026 Seoul Subway Details
Seoul Metro's 9+ lines span 700+ km, covering all hotspots with multilingual signs (English/Chinese/Japanese). Base fares rose in late 2025: adults 1,550 KRW (card, +150 KRW), cash 1,650 KRW; teens 900 KRW; kids 550 KRW. Distance-based up to ~1,800 KRW for 10km; free transfers within 30 mins.
- Peak hours (7-9 AM, 6-8 PM) are crowded—use apps for real-time crowding.
- New in 2026: Contactless payments (phone/foreign cards) at 25+ stations; early bird discount till 6:30 AM (1,240 KRW adults).
Bus Routes Breakdown
Color-coded for ease: Blue/Green (city, 1,500 KRW), Yellow (short loops), Red (express outer, 3,000 KRW+), Village (1,200 KRW). Late-night buses till 2-3 AM on key routes. 2026 updates include more autonomous buses and extended Lunar New Year service to 1 AM.
| Bus Type | Card Fare (Adult) | Best For | 2026 Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue/Green | 1,500 KRW | Daily commutes | 30-min transfers free; real-time via KakaoMap |
| Red Express | 3,000 KRW+ | Airport/outskirts | Potential fare hikes for long distances |
| Village Bus | 1,200 KRW | Neighborhoods | Early discount 960 KRW |
Taxi & Airport Transfers
Standard taxi: 4,800 KRW base (1.6km), +100 KRW/131m or 30s; midnight surcharge 20%; deluxe ~7,000 KRW base. Use Kakao T (English app) to avoid issues. Incheon Airport: AREX Express (43 min to Seoul Station, 9,500 KRW), limousine bus (hotels direct, 10-16K KRW), taxi 50-70K KRW traffic-dependent.
- Pro tip: Show Korean address via Papago app; watch for surge pricing (0.7-4x).
2026 Money-Saving Hacks for Tourists
Get a T-Money card (2,500-5,000 KRW deposit, refundable) at convenience stores or subway stations—10% transfer discount and works on subway, bus, and some taxis. No bank account or monthly subscription needed.
- Apps: KakaoMap/Naver Map for routes; Subway Korea for subway lines.
- Tourist perks: Free shuttles during strikes/holidays; GTX high-speed rail expanding.