How to Use Trains in Korea

Korean trains are a representative means of transportation that allow people to travel quickly to most cities or regions. As a result, the number of foreign users as well as locals using trains has been steadily increasing.

Let’s learn more about using trains in Korea.

1. Types of Trains

Trains in Korea are classified into various types based on speed, purpose, and operating companies. Particularly, trains operated by KORAIL (Korea Railroad Corporation) and SRT (Super Rapid Train) are widely used. Here is a summary of these two systems and their train types:

1. Trains Operated by KORAIL

KORAIL operates a wide range of trains, from high-speed to regular trains, offering diverse options for passengers.

(1) High-Speed Trains (KTX Series)

• KTX
  • Korea’s representative high-speed train, reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h.
  • Connects major cities across the country, with Seoul Station and Yongsan Station serving as central hubs.
• KTX-Eum
  • A semi-high-speed train with a maximum speed of about 260 km/h.
  • Links metropolitan areas with smaller cities and is eco-friendly due to its electric propulsion system.

(2) Semi-High-Speed Trains (ITX Series)

• ITX-Cheongchun
  • Connects Seoul and Chuncheon, suitable for medium-distance travel.
  • Offers comfortable seats and relatively fast travel between the Seoul metropolitan area and Gangwon Province.

(3) Regular Trains

• Saemaeul-ho
  • Once a premium train option, its frequency of operation has decreased over time.
  • Provides comfortable seating at a slightly higher fare than Mugunghwa-ho.
• Mugunghwa-ho
  • The most common regular train with affordable fares and nationwide coverage.
  • Although travel times are longer, it is a cost-effective option.
• Nuri-ro
  • A regular train for short and medium-distance routes in the metropolitan area, combining convenience and affordability.

2. Trains Operated by SRT

SRT is managed by SR Corporation and operates exclusively with SRT trains.

(1) SRT (Super Rapid Train)

• Routes
  • Focuses on the Gyeongbu Line (Suseo-Busan) and Honam Line (Suseo-Mokpo).
  • Departures are from Suseo Station, offering excellent accessibility to the southern part of Seoul.
• Features
  • Uses the same high-speed train model as KTX but offers slightly lower fares.
  • Operates on dedicated high-speed rail lines, providing travel times similar to KTX.

3. Differences Between KORAIL and SRT

2. KORAIL PASS

The KORAIL PASS is a rail pass offered to foreign tourists. It is a convenient and economical pass that allows unlimited travel on various trains operated by KORAIL for a set period. Designed to help foreign visitors efficiently visit major tourist destinations in Korea, it is ideal for those planning a trip.

1. Key Features

• Unlimited Use: Enjoy unlimited rides on KORAIL-operated trains during the selected validity period.
• Eligible Trains: Most trains, including KTX, KTX-Eum, ITX-Cheongchun, Saemaeul-ho, Mugunghwa-ho, and Nuriro. (SRT is excluded.)
• Convenient Reservations: Seats can be reserved in advance, and the pass is accepted at most major stations in Korea.
• Online Purchase: Available through the official KORAIL website or designated travel agencies.

2. Eligibility

• Any foreigners visiting Korea can travel with the KORAIL PASS

3. Types of KORAIL Passes

KORAIL Passes are available in different formats based on the period of validity and usage options.

(1) Passes by Duration

• Consecutive Pass: Valid for consecutive days (e.g., 3 days, 5 days).
• Flexible Pass: Valid for selected days within a specified period (e.g., 2 days within 10 days, 4 days within 10 days).

(2) Example of Pass Prices (As of 2024)
Details may vary depending on the pass type and duration.

4. How to Use the Pass

1. Purchase: Buy the pass through the official KORAIL website or authorized sellers.
2. Receive Voucher: Check the voucher sent via email.
3. Reservation:
   • Enter the 16-digit reservation number provided in the voucher on the KORAIL website.
   • For trains requiring seat reservations (e.g., KTX), book seats separately.
   • Seat reservations can also be made at travel centers in train stations, but online reservations are recommended.
4. Boarding:
   • Carry your KORAIL Pass (printed or mobile), passport, and seat ticket (if reserved).
   • Note: Screenshots of reserved seat tickets are not valid.

If tickets are sold out, you may board without a seat by presenting your KORAIL Pass and passport.

5. Important Notes

• The pass is non-transferable and can only be used by the person who purchased it.
• The KORAIL Pass does not cover SRT (Super Rapid Train), metropolitan trains, or special tourist trains.

3. Train Prices

Let’s compare train prices for the longest and most popular route from Seoul to Busan, considering major trains such as KTX, SRT, Mugunghwa-ho, and ITX-Saemaeul. (Prices are for one adult passenger as of 2024.)

1. Train Fare Comparison from Seoul to Busan

2. Additional Options

• First Class Fares:
  • KTX First Class: About 83,700 KRW
  • SRT First Class: About 76,000 KRW
• Discount Benefits:
  • KTX and SRT offer early booking discounts, group discounts, etc., allowing fares to be as much as 30% cheaper.
  • Using the KORAIL Pass, travelers can enjoy unlimited rides on KTX and other trains.

3. Summary Comparison

• Time Priority: If you need to arrive quickly, choose KTX or SRT.
• Economy Priority: Choose ITX-Saemaeul or Mugunghwa-ho for cost savings.
• Departure Station: If departing from Seoul Station or Yongsan Station, KTX is more convenient; if departing from Suseo Station, SRT is more convenient.

4. Payment Methods (QR Code Payment)

1. Online Payment

   (1) Use the KORAIL website or KORAIL Talk app

   • You can make reservations in English on the official KORAIL website.
   • Reservations can be made without signing up using the “Guest Reservation” feature.
   • Foreigners can scan a special QR code to access the foreign-language website without needing the app.
   • Overseas card payments are supported.

(2) SRT (Suseo High-Speed Rail):

1. • Reservations are made through the separate SRT website or app.
   • English services are available, making it easy for foreigners to use.

2. Payment at Train Station Ticket Counters

• Major stations (e.g., Seoul Station, Yongsan Station, Busan Station) provide English assistance at ticket counters.
• You can pay with overseas credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, etc.) or cash.

3. Self-Service Ticket Machines

• Self-service ticket machines at stations support multiple languages, including English, Japanese, and Chinese.
• You can select the train and seat, and pay with a domestic credit card (international cards are not accepted).

4. Foreign Tourist Pass (KORAIL Pass)

• KORAIL PASS: Foreigners can purchase this pass to travel freely on KTX and other trains.
• It can be purchased through the official website or designated travel agencies.
• Options include 2-day, 3-day, and other duration passes

5. Payment via Global Travel Platforms

• You can book train tickets through platforms like Klook, Trip.com, and Rail Europe.
• For Chinese tourists, WeChat and Alipay offer booking services.
• Starting from May 2024, KONEST (for Japanese travelers) will also offer booking services.

5. Train Station Amenities and Luggage Storage

Korea’s train stations are modern and well-equipped, offering convenient services for travelers. Major stations provide a variety of amenities and luggage storage options, ensuring that travelers can move about worry-free during their journey.

1. Major Amenities at Korean Train Stations

At major stations like Seoul Station, Yongsan Station, and Busan Station, you can enjoy the following amenities:

• Food and Shopping
  • Restaurants: Fast food, Korean food, cafes, convenience stores, and more.
  • Shopping: Souvenir shops, bookstores, clothing stores, etc.
  • Food Courts: Large stations have food courts offering a variety of food options.
• Waiting Areas
  • Waiting Rooms: Comfortable seating areas with free Wi-Fi.
  • VIP Lounges: Exclusive lounges for KTX First Class passengers at some stations.
• Information Services
  • Tourist Information Centers: Provide services in multiple languages, along with travel information.
  • Self-service Ticket Machines: Available in English, Japanese, Chinese, and other languages.
• Transportation Connections
  • Public Transit Connections: Easy access to subways, buses, and taxis.
  • Parking: Available for travelers using their personal vehicles.

2. Luggage Storage Options

Train stations offer several options for safely storing your luggage.

• Coin Lockers
  • Location: Available inside and around the station, especially near the waiting area.
  • Types: Small, medium, large lockers.
  • Price: Basic rates range from 2,000 to 5,000 KRW depending on the size. Additional charges may apply after the initial storage time.
  • Usage: Select the language (English, Japanese, etc.) on the digital panel, pay with cash or card, and open/close using a password.

• Luggage Storage Service
  • Location: Large stations like Seoul Station and Busan Station provide dedicated luggage storage services.
  • Operating Hours: Typically from 9 AM to 10 PM.
  • Price: Varies based on luggage size and storage time (small: about 3,000 KRW, large: about 10,000 KRW).

• Private Luggage Delivery Service
  • Delivery: Some major stations offer luggage delivery services to hotels or airports.
  • Price: Varies based on distance and size of luggage, typically ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 KRW.

3. Important Notes on Luggage Storage

• Usage Time Limits: Coin lockers are generally available for up to 24 hours; additional fees apply after this period.
• Valuables: It’s safer to keep valuable items with you rather than in storage.
• Peak Hours: Lockers may be in short supply during peak travel times, so it’s a good idea to reserve early or use them promptly.