Seoul First-Time Tips: T-money, Subway & Apps

Seoul is easy to get around once you have three things sorted: a transit card, the right map app and a way to pay. Here’s the short version.

1. Get a T-money card

• Buy one at any convenience store (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) or station machine.
• Top it up with cash at the same places.
• Works on the subway, buses and many taxis — in Busan too.
• Tap in and out, even on buses, to get transfer discounts.
• Prefer one card for everything? WOWPASS is a prepaid card for visitors with transit built in.

2. Use Naver Map or KakaoMap

Google Maps doesn’t give full walking directions in Korea. Naver Map and KakaoMap both work in English and show subway exits and bus times.

3. Translation

Papago handles Korean better than most apps, including photos of menus.

4. Paying

• Cards are accepted almost everywhere.
• Carry some cash for markets and street food.
• No tipping — it isn’t expected.

5. Getting around the subway

Signs and announcements are in English, and every station has numbered exits. Your map app tells you which exit to use — that saves a lot of walking.

Ready? Start with the 3 days in Seoul itinerary.

More Korea travel guides

• 3 Days in Seoul Itinerary: The Easy First-Timer Plan
• Seoul Day 1: Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon & Ihwa Mural Village
• Seoul Day 2: Gwangjang Market, DDP, Cheonggyecheon & Myeongdong
• Seoul Day 3: Seokchon Lake, Starfield Library & the Han River
• Gyeongbokgung Palace Guide: Free Entry in Hanbok & Tips
• Gwangjang Market: What to Eat (and How to Order)
• Han River Parks in Seoul: Ramyeon, Bikes & the Rainbow Fountain
• Busan 2-Day Itinerary: Beaches, Temple & Seafood
• Gyeongju 1-Day Itinerary: Bulguksa, Royal Tombs & Wolji Pond

Photo credits — Mtattrain / CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.