T-money & Climate Card Guide for Foreigners
Compare Korea's transit card options and learn how to use them as a foreign visitor.
Transit Card Comparison
T-money
Prepaid transit cardForeigner-friendlyWorks on buses, subways, and taxis nationwide. Also accepted at convenience stores.
기후동행카드 (Climate Card)
Monthly unlimited transit passForeigner-friendlyUnlimited Seoul subway, city bus, and Ttareungyi bike share. KRW 65,000/month (KRW 62,000 for some zones). Available to foreigners.
Namane Card
Foreigner-only transit cardForeigner-friendlyEnglish-labelled card, works identically to T-money. Check balance with the Namane app.
Discover Seoul Pass
Tourist unlimited transit + attraction passForeigner-friendly24h/48h/72h options. Unlimited subway + free entry to 60+ attractions.
How to Use T-money
- 1
Buy a T-money card at any convenience store (around ₩2,500)
- 2
Top up at the convenience store counter or subway vending machine
- 3
Tap the card on the reader when boarding buses or entering subway gates
- 4
Always tap out when exiting — this ensures the correct fare is charged
- 5
Top up immediately at convenience stores or subway stations when balance is low
Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners buy T-money in Korea?
Yes. T-money cards are available at any CU, GS25, 7-Eleven or Emart24 convenience store and cost around KRW 2,500–4,000. Top up at the same stores or at subway vending machines.
How do I top up a T-money card?
Top up at convenience store counters, subway station vending machines (many have an English mode), or via the T-money app. Minimum top-up is usually KRW 1,000.
Can I get a refund on my T-money balance?
Yes. If your balance is KRW 20,000 or less, full refund is available at any CU or GS25 convenience store (a KRW 500 fee applies for balances over KRW 20,000 at subway stations).
Is the Climate Card worth it for tourists?
The Climate Card (기후동행카드) costs KRW 65,000 per month and gives unlimited Seoul subway and bus rides. If you plan to take more than 60 transit rides in 30 days, it saves money. For stays under 2 weeks, T-money or Discover Seoul Pass may be more economical.
Does T-money work on KTX or intercity buses?
T-money does NOT work on KTX bullet trains. It works on KORAIL commuter trains (수도권 전철) within the Seoul metro network but not on long-distance trains. Most intercity express buses (고속버스) do not accept T-money.