T-money Card Essentials

Pick up a T-money card at any convenience store (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven) for KRW 2,500. Load credit at the same stores or at metro station machines. The card works on all Seoul Metro lines, city buses, and even in Busan and other cities. You get a small discount per ride versus paying cash, and free transfers between bus and metro within 30 minutes. Refundable balance (minus KRW 500 fee) at convenience stores when you leave.

KTX Tips for Budget Travelers

The KTX bullet train is the best way to travel between Seoul and Busan (2.5 hours). Book tickets on the Korail app or website — seats sell out on Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons. Standing tickets are available at a discount if seated class is full. Consider the Korail Pass for multi-city itineraries: 2-day, 3-day, or 5-day passes offer unlimited KTX travel and can save significantly if you plan three or more long trips.

Practical Tips

• Download KakaoMap or Naver Map before arriving — Google Maps has very limited transit and navigation data in South Korea
• Most convenience stores, restaurants, and transit accept credit cards, but keep some cash for traditional markets
• Free public Wi-Fi is available on metro trains, buses, and in most cafes
• Subway stations have lockers (KRW 1,000-2,000) — great for day trips without dragging luggage
• Last metro trains depart around midnight; night buses (owl buses) cover major routes until 5 AM