Trains and buses are the most common means of transportation in Korea. For the majority of Koreans, the two mass transportation systems are both inexpensive and convenient.
The
Korean National Railroads(KNR), a government-owned railroads network, connects the entire country. KNR provides superexpress trains (the Saemaul-ho) linking Seoul and Pusan in 4 hours and 10 minutes, and Seoul and Mokpo in 4 hours 30 minutes. There are several other types of trains, far less speedy than the Saemaul-ho.
The
subway is considered the most effective traffic system in Seoul. Eight subway lines and a surface line of the Korean National Railroad (KNR) merge to serve Seoulites and visitors to Korea. Seoul subway lines (each one a distinct color) link the farthest parts of Seoul and its satellite cities. The lines are well developed and you can find most of Seoul's attractions such as royal palaces, historical sites and theme parks along the eight different lines.The subway covers the entire area of Seoul including surrounding areas. Most stations are underground, but you will find some are above ground. Subway trains arrive on average about every five minutes, although during rush hour you can expect one to arrive about every two minutes. Service is available from 5:30 a.m. to 12 a.m. on most lines. Subway signs are generally in Korean and English, but keeping a small subway map makes it much easier to get around Seoul. There are two different fares for the subway, depending on the zone you travel. Most subway stations and trains are very clean and modern, except for the national railway since it is an older line. Bathrooms and vending machines are available at most stations, while some have eating and shopping areas as well. The subway stations are strictly no smoking areas, except for immediately outside the station. It's a good idea to avoid the rush hour.
KTX : Korea Train Express - With the historical opening of the express rail in April 2004, Korea has joined the league of France, Japan, Germany and Spain and entered into the super high-speed train era, operating at speeds of 300km per hour. With the KTX you'll be able to reach anywhere in the country within three hours. It's fast, safe, convenient and environmentally friendly.
Intra-city Buses : Most large cities in Korea have two different types of intra-city buses : ilban (regular) and chaseok (seat) buses. (Some areas may also have mawol buses (vans) which only ply around a small area, generally traveling down narrow streets where regular-sized buses can not fit.) Seoul and Pusan also have limousine buses that run between the airport and downtown areas and hotels. Although intra-city buses do not have established schedules, they generally leave their home stations at set intervals. Varying traffic patterns and different driver temperaments can cause long gaps between buses, then suddenly 3 pass the same stop within minutes of each other. Buses are numbered according the route they travel, and major stops are written in Korean on the buses.
Long Distance BusesFor traveling between cities or through the countryside, you can use two different types of inter-city buses. While kosok buses usually go directly from point A to point B along the most direct route (major highways, if available), chikaeng buses take less major roads and make stops at major towns or tourist destinations along the way. Drivers usually break every 2 hours or so at highway rest areas so people can go to the bathroom, smoke, and get something to eat or drink. (Make sure you remember which bus is yours when you exit! Memorize the license plate number of some other distinctive feature as drivers will sometimes have to move their buses to make room for other buses to park.)
The Seoul City Tour Bus is another way to travel around Seoul. It is a new service that has just started in winter 2000. It goes to all the famous tourist spots in Seoul, but doesn't go to every location in Seoul. The main locations are downtown Seoul, Namdaemun Market, Itaewon and goes around the various palaces. The buses arrive at the stops every 25 minutes, official time, but there may be delays due to traffic. For a flat fee, a tourist can get off and on the bus at any stop. Tickets may be purchased at various bus stops or tourist locations around Seoul. Or, tourists may pay the driver cash when they get on the bus and get their tickets then. It is an excellent way to experience Seoul, without spending a lot of money, for those without a lot of time to spare.
