Seoul Metro English Guide
Key lines, tourist station routes, fares, and transit card tips for navigating Seoul Metro as a foreign visitor.
Base fare (T-money)
₩1,400
Base fare (cash)
₩1,500
Operating hours
05:30–24:00
Key Lines for Tourists
Line 1 (Blue)
Key stations
Transfer to AREX (airport express) and KTX at Seoul Station. Long line with branches — check destination carefully.
Line 2 (Green)
Key stations
Circular line. Connects Gangnam, Hongdae, and Jamsil — the most used line by tourists.
Line 3 (Orange)
Key stations
Essential for Gyeongbokgung and Bukchon. Also serves Apgujeong Rodeo shopping area.
Line 4 (Sky Blue)
Key stations
Myeongdong Station is on Line 4. Transfer to AREX at Seoul Station.
Line 5 (Purple)
Key stations
Serves Gwanghwamun Square and Yeouido. Connects to Gimpo Airport.
Line 6 (Brown)
Key stations
Key line for Itaewon — use Itaewon Station or Noksapyeong (slightly quieter exit).
Line 9 (Gold)
Key stations
Runs express trains. Fast route from Gimpo to Gangnam — often crowded during rush hour.
Airport Railroad (AREX)
Key stations
Express: 43 min, ₩11,000. All-stop: 66 min, ₩4,150–4,850.
Common Tourist Routes
| From → To | Route | Time | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| ICN Airport → Myeongdong | AREX → Seoul Station → Line 4 → Myeongdong | 55–70 min | ~₩15,150 |
| Seoul Station → Gyeongbokgung | Line 4 → Line 3 → Gyeongbokgung | 15 min | ₩1,500 |
| Hongdae → Gangnam | Line 2 (circular) | 30 min | ₩1,500 |
| Myeongdong → Itaewon | Line 4 → Line 6 → Itaewon | 20 min | ₩1,500 |
| Jamsil → Gangnam | Line 2 (circular) | 15 min | ₩1,500 |
Navigation Tips
Buy a T-money card at any GS25, CU, or 7-Eleven convenience store (KRW 2,500–3,000) and top up with cash.
Transfers are free within 30 minutes in the same direction — tap out and back in with T-money.
Seoul transit integration: subway + bus transfers cost nothing within 30 minutes.
After midnight, use Kakao T taxi or 24-hour bus routes (night buses marked 'N' on maps).
Google Maps and Naver Maps both show real-time metro routes with English station names.
First and last train times vary by line and station — check the Seoul Metro app for exact times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Seoul Metro signs and announcements in English?
Yes — all Seoul Metro stations have bilingual Korean/English signage, digital displays, and train announcements. Major stations also have Chinese and Japanese announcements. Navigating is straightforward for English-speaking tourists.
How do I pay for the Seoul Metro?
The easiest method is a T-money card (티머니) — a reloadable transit card. Tap in at the turnstile, tap out at the destination. You can also pay with certain foreign credit cards that support contactless payment (check the NFC transit card symbol). Single-journey tickets are available at machines but cost slightly more.
What is the base fare on Seoul Metro?
The base fare is KRW 1,500 (cash) or KRW 1,400 (T-money/transit card) for distances up to 10km. Additional distance charges apply above 10km. Most tourist trips within the city cost KRW 1,400–2,000.
What time does Seoul Metro run?
Most lines run 05:30–24:00. On Friday and Saturday nights, some lines extend to 01:00. Check the exact schedule at the Seoul Metro app or smrt.co.kr for the specific line.
How do I navigate Seoul Metro without Korean?
Use the official Seoul Metro app (available in English), Google Maps, or Naver Maps (both show real-time metro routes). All stations have English station names. Counting stops is a reliable backup — each line number is color-coded.