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Traveloka Team

27 Feb 2024 - 5 min read

The Best Way to Navigate the Seoul Subway System

Seoul Subway is one of the best public transportation to get around Seoul. Below is your complete guideline to go around Seoul with Soul Subway.

The Seoul Subway System is one of the world's largest and best-developed subway networks. It consists of several lines that run throughout the city and into the suburbs. The subway system works with other types of public transit, such as buses and commuter trains. Many subway stations function as transportation hubs, connecting to large bus terminals and facilitating seamless transfers between modes of transportation.

The lines are frequently designated with numbers and colours, making it somewhat confusing for tourists or people who do not live in Seoul to navigate. But it will be easy if you put effort into using maps. For the record, Google Maps navigation might not work 100% in Seoul, so you need to download Naver Maps instead. However, you can handle getting around Seoul because this article will give you complete guidelines for navigating the Seoul Subway.

What is a Subway?

The word "subway" can have a variety of connotations depending on the context, but it typically refers to an underground or elevated railway system for metropolitan public transportation. Subways are designed to provide efficient and rapid transportation in heavily populated urban regions.

In this discussion, the Seoul Subway is an important part of the city's public transit infrastructure, supporting the movement of millions of inhabitants and visitors each day. It further enhances Seoul's reputation for its well-developed and efficient public transit system. The Seoul Subway System is known for its safety measures and cleanliness, contributing to a comfortable commuting experience.

The Benefits of Using the Seoul Subway

The Seoul Subway System provides various advantages to commuters and visitors, increasing its popularity and efficiency as a form of transit in the city. Here are some of the key benefits of using the Seoul Subway:

1. Efficiency

The Seoul Subway is noted for its punctuality and consistent schedule, making it a dependable source of transportation for users.

2. Convenience and Accessibility

The subway system is highly accessible, with various stations located around the city, allowing passengers to easily reach their destinations. Major stations frequently function as transportation hubs, linking with buses and other modes of transportation.

3. Comprehensive Coverage

The subway system is an extensive network of lines connecting various Seoul regions and extends to the suburbs. This vast coverage enables commuters to effortlessly reach various neighbourhoods and destinations.

4. Ease of Navigation

The subway system is constructed with clear signs and announcements in Korean and English, making it simple for both residents and international visitors to navigate.

5. Integration with Different Modes of Transportation

The Seoul Subway is connected with various modes of public transit, allowing for seamless transfers between subway lines, buses, and commuter trains.

6. Time Efficiency

The subway is a rapid and effective means to get throughout the city, saving travellers time compared to surface transportation, particularly during peak hours.

The Route of the Seoul Subway

Seoul subway systems are differentiated by lines. Lines are numbered and colour-coded, making it easier for commuters to navigate the system. Here are some of the major subway lines in Seoul:

Line 1 (Dark Blue Line)
It reaches from Soyosan in the north to Incheon and Sinchang in the west.
Line 2 (Green Line)
1. A circular route that links Seoul's main areas.
2. Inner Circle: Sports Complex to City Hall
3. Outer Circle: Samseong (COEX) to City Hall
Line 3 (Orange Line)
It extends from Ogeum, in the southeast, to Daehwa, in the northwest.
Line 4 (Light Blue Line)
It extends from Oido in the southwest to Danggogae in the northeast.
Line 5 (Purple Line)
It extends from Banghwa in the west to Sangil-dong in the east.
Line 6 (Brown Line)
The route runs from Eungam in the northwest to Bonghwasan in the northeast.
Line 7 (Olive Green Line)
Runs from Jangam in the northwest to the Bupyeong-gu Office in the south.
Line 8 (Rose Pink Line)
It extends from Amsa in the east to Moran in the northwest.
Line 9 (Gold Line)
The route runs from Gaehwa in the west to VHS Medical Center in the southeast.
Bundang Line (Yellow Line)
Connects the southern suburbs and runs from Wangsimni to Suwon.
Gyeongui–Jungang Line
Connects the western suburbs and runs from Munsan to Yongmun.
Airport Rail Express (AREX)
Connects Incheon International Airport to Seoul Station and Gimpo International Airport.

Facilities of the Seoul Subway

The Seoul Subway System offers a variety of services and amenities to make commuting easier for commuters. Here are some common facilities you can find on the Seoul Subway.

1. Ticketing and Fare Facilities

Ticket vending machines are conveniently positioned at stations to purchase single-journey tickets. Alternatively, passengers can use T-money cards or similar rechargeable cards for seamless fare payment and the machine for recharging T-money is also available in every subway station.

2. Public Restrooms

Most Seoul subway stations provide restrooms for passengers' convenience.

3. Elevators and Escalators

Many Seoul subway stations include elevators and escalators to help travellers with mobility issues.

4. Wi-Fi and Mobile Connectivity

Some Seoul subway stations and trains provide free Wi-Fi, and cell phone connectivity is often reliable across the subway system.

5. Locker Facilities

The Seoul Subway System provides locker facilities at some stations for the convenience of passengers. These lockers are typically used for temporarily storing personal belongings or luggage while commuters travel around the city. Lockers come in various sizes to accommodate different belongings, from small bags to larger luggage items.

Users can rent lockers for a certain duration, usually measured in hours. There may be additional charges for extended usage beyond the initial rental period. Payment for locker usage is typically done through coin-operated or electronic payment systems. Some may also accept transportation cards like T-money. After payment, users receive a code or key to access their locker.

Where to Buy Seoul Subway Tickets

Seoul Subway tickets can be purchased in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences and length of stay. Here are common ways to purchase Seoul Subway tickets.

1. Ticket Vending Machines

Ticket vending machines are available at all subway stations in Seoul. These machines offer the option to purchase single-journey tickets for specific trips. When arriving at Incheon International Airport, you can purchase subway tickets or T-money cards at the airport's transportation counters. This is convenient for travellers heading to Seoul directly from the airport. Moreover, T-money cards can be purchased and recharged at subway stations, convenience stores, and designated retail outlets.

2. Convenience Stores

Convenience stores such as GS25, CU, and 7-Eleven sell T-money cards and, on occasion, single-journey tickets. These stores are widely distributed and frequently open around the clock.

Seoul

Flight to Seoul

Planning a trip to experience the Seoul Subway System is a great idea, as it allows you to explore the diverse and vibrant city of Seoul efficiently. Identify the key attractions, neighbourhoods, and places you want to visit in Seoul using the Seoul Subway System. Book your flights from Singapore to Seoul and plan your trip now with Traveloka!

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