Getting around Korea is super easy and convenient thanks to the transportation card system. Instead of paying cash every time you ride the subway, bus, or even take a taxi, using a transportation card saves time, money, and hassle.
1. T-money (티머니)
The most widely used card in Korea is the T-money card. You can purchase it at convenience stores like CU, GS25, and 7-Eleven, or from ticket vending machines at subway stations. It usually costs about 2,500 KRW (around $2), and you need to recharge it to use for transportation.
At subway kiosks, only the standard T-money card is sold, but convenience stores offer fun variations featuring popular characters or unique designs. These collectible cards don’t cost more but add personality and make great souvenirs.
- Where to recharge: Convenience stores, subway stations, bus terminals, and mobile apps.
- Where to use: Subways, buses, taxis, convenience stores, and some vending machines.
- Note: Not accepted on KTX, Mugunghwa trains, intercity, or express buses, which require separate tickets.
- Discounts: T-money users get small fare discounts (about 100 KRW per ride) and transfer discounts when switching between buses and subways within 30 minutes.
- Nationwide use: Accepted throughout Korea — from Seoul to Busan and beyond.
2. Cashbee (캐쉬비)
Cashbee is essentially a regional version of T-money, popular in places like Busan and Daegu but usable nationwide. There’s no significant difference for most travelers, so having either card will cover your public transport needs across Korea.
3. Railplus (레일플러스)
Railplus is a transportation card mainly designed for use on the KORAIL railway network, covering regional and long-distance trains like KTX and Mugunghwa.
Unlike T-money or Cashbee, which focus on everyday urban transit, Railplus is tailored for train travelers and offers discounts on KORAIL trains. It’s sold at train stations and convenient if you travel frequently between cities.
For most visitors and locals using mainly city transit, Railplus offers limited benefits. If you mostly travel within cities, T-money or Cashbee is a better choice.
How to Use Transportation Cards Like a local: Step-by-Step
- Get your card ready before boarding.
- Tap your card on the reader as you get on.
- Check your remaining balance on the reader’s display (the lower number shows your balance).
- Ride to your destination.
- Get your card ready before getting off.
- Tap your card on the reader as you get off. This lets the system calculate your fare.
Extra tips:
- Transfers between buses and subways within 30 minutes usually get discounted fares automatically.
- Taxis require you to tap your card once when you get out. Taxi rides don’t count toward transfer discounts.
- Keep your card handy to avoid delays during busy hours.
Why Get a Transportation Card?
- Save time: No need to buy tickets every ride.
- Save money: Enjoy discounted fares and transfer benefits.
- Convenience: Use one card across multiple transport modes and some stores.
If you’re visiting Korea, getting a transportation card like T-money right after arrival is one of the best ways to make your trip smooth and easy!
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