Korean Transportation System-an easy description of the various transportation available

SUBWAY SYSTEM- There are excellent subway systems in Seoul, Busan, Daegu, and Incheon. The subway is the most efficient and convenient way for foreign travelers to get around Seoul and Busan. Station names, ticket counters, and transfer signs are all clearly marked in English as well as Korean, the different lines are color-coded, and all trains have announcements in English and Korean. The subways themselves are clean and efficient, air-conditioned, and have automatic ticket dispensers and convenient bus connections. Each station has a large waiting area and the walls are decorated with various artistic works. Fares are inexpensive, but do vary with service areas, so check the cost for your destination before purchasing a ticket.
< Seoul Subway >

Nine subway lines serve Seoul and its suburbs. The eight lines are color-coded: dark blue for Line 1, green for Line 2, orange for Line 3, light blue for Line 4, purple for Line 5. Line 1 connects Seoul and Cheongnyangni Stations, the two major train stations in Seoul, passing through City Hall and Jongno in the heart of downtown. This line also merges with the surface electric train line of the state-run Korean National Railroad(K.N.R.), linking Seoul to its major satellite cities of Incheon, Suwon, Uijeongbu, and Ansan. Line 2 is a circular route encompassing both sides of the Han-gang River from City Hall through Euljiro, across the river to Jamsil, Yeongdong, and north again to the Sinchon area. Line 3 runs from Daehwa in the northwest to Ori in the south, linking Seoul with its two new satellite cities of Bundang and Ilsan. Line 4, a mirror-image of line 3, is anchored by Danggogae in the northeast and Sadang in the south and is connected to the railroad line to Ansan. Line 5, which passes through central Seoul and runs to Gimpo Airport. The subway line 6 opened in December 2000. Line 7 starts from Jangam in the north goes to Onsu in the southwest. Line 8 starts from Amsa and goes to Moran. Base fare is 1250won for 10km, the charge is added 100 won for each additional 5km.

We quote this content from Korea national tourism organization.

Korean Transportation System-an easy description of the various transportation available

BUS SYSTEM- The city bus systems differ slightly from city to city in Korea. but most cities have local and express buses. They are numbered but since their signs are only in Korean, finding the right bus may be confusing to a first-time visitor. it is advisable to request assistance to find the bus stop and number that you need. The bus fare can be paid with either cash or a bus card available at booths near bus stops. Paying bus fare by cash is a little bit expensive than by bus card.

< Local City Buses >
Local buses are the most common means of transportation in Seoul. They are frequent, reliable, and inexpensive. Seoul's bus network serves every area of the city. The adult fare is 1200.

< City Coach Buses >
City coach buses called Gwangyeok bus in Korean, are more comfortable and air-conditioned. They stop less frequently and travel through congested areas faster. The fares for the city coach buses and the new deluxe city express buses is 2,300.

< Long Distance Express Buses >
Fast and reliable highway buses operate on expressways throughout the country, connecting almost all major points. Two express bus terminals serve Seoul. The Seoul Express Bus Terminal is the main bus depot for trips out of Seoul to other major cities, conveniently located on Subway Line 3. Dong Seoul Bus Terminal is near Gangbyeon Subway Station on Line 2.

We quote this content from Korea national tourism organization.

Korean Transportation System-an easy description of the various transportation available

TAXI SYSTEM- Taxis are plentiful and inexpensive in Korea, clean and safe. There are taxi stands in most busy city areas, and taxis can also be hailed on the streets. As well, certain taxis can be requested by phone, through the fare for these special call taxis is somewhat higher than regular taxis. An increasing number of taxi drivers speak some English.
< Regular Taxis >
That fare system in based on both the distance and the time taken. Fares are 2,800-3,000(won) for the first 2 km and 100(won) for each 142m or 35 seconds if the speed drops below 15 km per hour. The fare between Incheon International Airport and downtown Seoul is usually around 52,000-56,000(won) though it could be higher of traffic is congested. Fares increase 20% between midnight and 4 a.m.

< Deluxe Taxis >

Deluxe taxis, called Mobeom taxi in Korean, are black with a yellow sign on the top and the words "Deluxe Taxi" written on the sides. They offer more passenger space and a high standard of service. Fares are 5,000(won) for the first 3 km and 200 for each additional 164m or 39 seconds if the speed drops below 15 km per hour. The usual fare between Incheon International Airport and downtown is about 75,000(won). Receipts are given. There is no late-night surcharge. Deluxe taxis can be taken at stands located at hotels, stations, bus terminals, and on major city streets.

We quote this content from Korea national tourism organization.