How to Get Around in South Korea in 2024

South Korea is one of the most fascinating vacation destinations in Asia, and it is attracting not only anime and K-pop fans but also travellers from all around the world. Whether you are planning a short or a long trip and visiting various cities, knowing how to navigate the country's public transport options can make a significant difference. Therefore, here is a comprehensive guide to help you travel around South Korea comfortably and hassle-free.

Flying Around South Korea

Although South Korea is a geographically small nation, it is surprisingly well-connected with domestic flight options. The country's two national carriers — Asiana and Korean Air — connect travellers with more than a dozen regional cities around the country. Gimpo Airport is the main travel hub through which most domestic flights to Jeju Island and other destinations depart regularly. Airfares are strikingly similar in both airlines and the ticket prices usually fluctuate between W60,000 and W100,000. Due to the geographical compactness of South Korea, most flights last less than an hour.

Local Ferries

South Korea is a country that is home to more than a thousand islands that are scattered across its southern and western coastlines so getting around via ferries is also possible in this country. Travellers based in Seoul who wish to discover the island communities based in Busan, Wando, Mokpo and Yeosu will find that there are direct ferries heading to these islands. Although popular travel hotspot Jeju Island is also accessible via ferry, most tourists choose to fly there. Ferry fares in South Korea are generally affordable. However, if you plan to visit outlying islands like Hongdo, Dokdo, Ulleungdo, and Jeju, you will have to pay significantly more due to the longer distances that must be travelled. During the peak tourist season, it can be difficult to book ferry rides to these popular destinations. Therefore, it may be necessary to reserve tickets through a local tour agency.

Train Travel

Whether you are staying at Travelodge Myeongdong City Hall or any other hotel in Seoul, South Korea's two main railway lines can connect you to cities located in all corners of the country. These punctual trains travel at a speed of 300km/hour, making it easy for visitors on Seoul holiday packages to tour far-off cities such as Busan and Mokpo via the railway network. In addition to the super-fast KTX trains, there are also Saemaeul and commuter class trains available for those who have budgetary concerns.

Buying Tickets 101

Buying train tickets at South Korean train stations is a breeze thanks to the English signs and schedules posted in the public areas of each station. After selecting the destination and the train class, a ticketing agent will show passengers the seat price and availability so that tourists can choose to board that particular train or opt for another.

Subways

Although Seoul or Incheon's subway lines are world famous for their speed and efficiency, other cities in South Korea also boast underground subway networks. These cities include Daejeon, Daegu, Busan and Gwangju. Travelling via the subway is the least expensive way to get around in all of these bustling metropolises. With dual language signs and station maps, it's easy to decide what subway train to board. The metro routes have been built in such a way that nearly all of the major attractions in each city can be visited using the subway network.

Bus Services

Bus services are divided into long-distance buses and city buses in South Korea. Long-distance buses cover most of the country and offer affordable and convenient means of reaching different cities, towns and villages. Long-distance journeys will also include pit stops at fast food restaurants and snack joints so there's no need to pack meals and refreshments. City buses can be slightly more confusing to navigate due to the lack of English language signage on the vehicles.