Getting Started on the Seoul Metro
The Seoul Metro is the fastest and most affordable way to get around Seoul. The network covers 331 stations across 9 lines and 340 km of track, connecting the city's key neighbourhoods, transport hubs, and attractions. Around ~7.5 million journeys are made every day.
The Seoul Metropolitan Subway is one of the world's most comprehensive and technologically advanced metro systems. Opened on 15 August 1974, it operates 331 stations across 9 core lines (plus numerous suburban rail extensions) and serves a metropolitan area of 25 million people.
How to Pay
The best way to pay is with the T-Money Card — faster boarding, no queue at the machine, and usually a discount on fares. How to use the T-Money card on the Seoul Metro — buying, loading, transfer discounts, Apple Pay, and tips for 2026 visitors.
All payment options: T-Money card · Cashbee card · Contactless bank card (Visa/Mastercard) · Apple Pay · Samsung Pay · Single-use QR ticket.
💡 The T-Money card (₩4,000 deposit + loaded credit) gives a ₩100 discount per trip vs single tickets. It also works on all city buses, and bus-metro transfers within 30 minutes cost only ₩100–₩300 additional rather than full fare.
Peak hours: No peak fare surcharge — flat distance-based fares at all times.
Getting from the Airport to Seoul
AREX Airport Express connects Incheon Airport to Seoul Station — All-Stop in 58 minutes for ₩4,950, or Express in 43 minutes for ₩9,500. Journey time: ~58 min (All-Stop) / ~43 min (Express) to Seoul Station. Estimated fare: ₩4,950 All-Stop / ₩9,500 Express (to Seoul Station).
Full airport connection guide →
Key Stations
These are the most important and useful stations on the Seoul Metro for visitors:
Lines Overview
Essential Tips for Visitors
- Get a transit card — T-Money Card Guide is faster and cheaper than single-use tickets.
- Always tap in and out — tap your card at both entry and exit barriers to correctly calculate the fare and avoid overpaying.
- Travel off-peak — No peak fare surcharge — flat distance-based fares at all times are the busiest times. Fares may be lower off-peak.
- Download the official app — real-time service status, route planning, and fare information from Seoul Metro & Korail.
- Check operating hours — verify first and last train times before late-evening travel.
- Airport connection — see the airport guide for the fastest and cheapest way to/from the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the T-Money card?
T-Money is South Korea's national rechargeable transit IC card. Buy for ₩4,000–₩6,000 (card + minimal balance) at any convenience store (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) or subway ticket machine. Works on metro, city buses, some taxis, and even some convenience store payments. Top up at convenience stores or machines.
How do I get from Incheon Airport to Seoul?
AREX All-Stop train: ₩4,950, 58 minutes to Seoul Station — most convenient for tourists. AREX Express: ₩9,500, 43 minutes direct to Seoul Station. From Seoul Station connect to Lines 1 and 4. City Airport Limousine Bus also serves many hotels (₩18,000–₩25,000, 70–90 min depending on traffic).
Can I use Apple Pay or contactless bank card in Seoul?
Yes — Apple Pay launched in South Korea in March 2023 and is widely accepted at metro turnstiles and transit readers. Contactless Visa and Mastercard also work at all Seoul Metro gates. Samsung Pay (with T-Money function) is also popular among locals.
Is the Seoul Metro available in English?
Yes — Seoul Metro has excellent English support. All station signs show Korean (Hangul) and English (Romanized). In-train announcements are in Korean, English, Japanese, and Chinese. The KakaoMetro and Naver Maps apps both have full English metro route planning.
Does the Seoul Metro run at night?
No — most lines close around 01:00 and reopen at 05:30. Night buses (N-buses) cover major routes after metro hours. Taxis are widely available at night. Unlike Tokyo or New York, there is no all-night metro service.
Which line goes to Myeongdong (shopping)?
Line 4 (sky blue) stops at Myeongdong station — directly under the shopping district. Exit 5 or 6 leads into the main Myeongdong pedestrian street. Also accessible via Euljiro 1-ga on Lines 2 and 5.
How do I get to Gyeongbokgung Palace?
Line 3 stops at Gyeongbokgung station — take Exit 5 for the main palace entrance. The station name literally means "Gyeongbokgung Palace" making it impossible to miss. Line 3 also serves Insadong (Anguk station) and the Bukchon Hanok Village area.
What is the Korea Tourist Pass?
The Korea Tourist Pass (₩15,000/day, ₩23,000/2-day, ₩30,000/3-day) gives unlimited rides on the Seoul Metro, buses, and AREX All-Stop service. Sold at Incheon Airport AREX counter and major tourist stations. The AREX Express is not included — pay separately.
Fare Guide
See the full Seoul Metro ticket prices guide for all fares, the T-Money Card Guide discount, and payment options.
Source: Seoul Metro & Korail and Wikipedia. Information is for general guidance — verify with the operator before travel.