(Disclaimer: Hello! Since I’ve been getting a lot of queries on this post, I want to clarify that this article was based on our travel experience. What applied to our travel situation doesn’t have to apply in every situation. I cannot answer every question, because I’m not an official representative of KTX. But from a traveler to a traveler, I will try to be as helpful as I can! So just send in your questions, and I’ll try to help and answer it as much as possible. Last update: 08/12/2018)
In the ideal world, we’re efficient travel planners that we smartly booked a plane ticket from Manila to Incheon, and another one from Busan to Manila. However, in the real world we’re just a bunch of Korea fanatics who grabbed the first chance to book a flight to Seoul. It isn’t so bad though, because no matter what we booked, we’d still be boarding the Korail Express to go to Busan.
Since we had seven days in Korea, in the middle of our planning we realized that we had enough time to go to Busan. No chance to change our ticket, though, since we got it through a promo. Hence, the long planning of how to work about our schedule commenced.
In the end, we decided to spend five days in Seoul and two full days in Busan. It may not be enough, but our time only allowed two days. Thus, our hectic planning on how to ride the train from Seoul to Busan and vice-versa began. I decided to share it with you since I know that a lot of people are planning to go on the same adventure.
You can travel from Seoul to Busan by train, bus, plane and car. But doing it via the KTX is one the easiest and fastest way to do it, and it runs from Seoul to Busan every 15 to 20 minutes everyday from 5:00AM t 11:00 PM. And that’s also our chosen method of transportation.
To get to Busan, we decided to ride the KTX express from Seoul that made the five-hour trip via bus or regular train down to a little more than two hours. Honestly, it costs quite a lot, but I promise that it’s worth every Korean Won.
Using Korea Rail Pass or Korail Pass from Seoul to Busan
(Main Website: Letskorail.com)
There are tons of KTX passes, and I’m honestly just as confused then as I am now about everything. But after days of research, we decided to get the Korea Rail Pass that would take us from Korea to Seoul. The Korail Pass allows foreign tourists to travel unlimited times within a number of dates in the Standard Seats of the KTX, KTX-Sancheon, ITX-Saemaeul, Saemaeul, Mugunghwa and Nuriro trains. Passengers can choose among the 1, 3, 5, 7 and 10-day passes. According to the website, it must be used on consecutive days.
(UPDATE 04/17/2018) There are now 2-day and 4-day select passes that are more flexible than the other passes. You don’t have to use these passes on consecutive days, which made it easier and a lot simpler to just buy. This is especially useful for those who plan to stay in Busan for more than two days. I used it the last time I went to Korea in 2017.
We chose the 3-day KR Pass since we’d be traveling to and fro Busan within two days. There were four of us, so we were entitled for the Saver Pass which can be availed by groups of 2-5 people. Now that I’m writing this post, we should have gotten the Youth Pass, which is only available for individuals aged 13 to 25.
Basically, we could drop by in other provinces along the way, but we decided that we’d focus on Busan. It would be a pity to just spend an hour or two in a province.
You can learn more about it here: Korea Rail Pass. Do not forget to read the limitations of use! (Edit: 11/16/15)
How to avail and use the Korea Rail Pass:
The website provided clear instructions but here’s how I did it:
1. Book from the website.
Besides your name, you’ll also be asked to provide your passport number. The same thing will be asked from the other passenger you’re booking the ticket with. I suggest that you don’t book way ahead of your travel, but instead, wait a week before your travel period to book for it. You can pay via credit card.
2. After booking, print out the voucher/e-ticket provided.
You’ll be given a voucher after booking, which needs to be exchanged before you’ll be given the pass. Take note of the date till when you can use it. It’s valid within 180 days since date of the booking. Payment will only be credited once you exchange the e-ticket for the Pass.
3. Exchange the voucher for the passes in Seoul Station.
Upon arriving at Seoul Station (Subway Line 1 or 4, Exit 1), head to the Information Center where you have to exchange the voucher for a pass. Make sure to bring the credit card you used and your passport. This is very crucial, especially the passports, because only foreign tourists can use Korean Rail Pass. Foreigners who live in Korea can only use the Happy Rail Pass.
4. Avail your KTX express ticket with your Korea Rail Pass.
Go to the ticketing booth and present your Pass when availing the ticket to Busan. You’ll be given the next earliest time of departure. Sadly, you won’t be able to choose your seats, but you can say that you like to sit together. Don’t lose your ticket, because it’ll be checked once you’re already inside the train car. Keep your Korea Rail Pass safe because you’ll be needing that once you’re booking your return ticket to Seoul in Busan Station.
5. Go to your platform at least five minutes early.
Because the trains to Busan from Seoul leaves on time! Actually, all the trains leave on time. Make sure to sit on your assigned seats, too. However, the Koreans who sat near us were kind enough to exchange seat numbers so we could sit together. One also explained the seat situation to the train stewardess who checked our seat numbers. So yes, all the stories you heard about Koreans being nice, they’re all true.
6. And when it’s all confusing, don’t be afraid to ask around!
So off we go to Busan! We didn’t arrive in Seoul Station as early as we hoped, but still, we had an early start. Since we’d be arriving in Busan around lunch and we ate breakfast early, we bought some snacks in the station and some kimbap from an ahjumma we met outside. Lunch boxes and rice rolls are sold near the platform. We couldn’t be more excited to start our two-day Busan adventure!
Without a doubt, the view that welcomed us in Busan was breathtaking! It was a nice preview of the awesome days ahead of us.
On our last and second day in the home of Jung YongHwa and Reply 1997, we trooped back to Busan Station with heavy hearts. We enjoyed our stay so much that we actually regretted only staying there for two days. It’s our time to go back to Seoul and leave behind the place that nurtured some of my best memories of travel.
We arrived at around 7PM, and to our dismay, we learned that the earliest time of departure we could get was 10PM. That means we’d be arriving in Seoul past midnight! We had the option of being standing passengers at an earlier departure time, but we realized that it would be stressful since we were carrying heavy bags. While waiting, we ate our dinner in Lotteria.
We honestly spent a lot of time waiting. Staying in Lotteria way too long was a bit embarrassing. We already stayed there for about two hours. Good thing there’s a wide waiting area near the platform, and Wi-Fi was also available. That’s what I love about Korea, you can pretty much find Wi-Fi everywhere.
We arrived in Seoul way past midnight. By then, the subway was already closed, and that’s the only mode of transpo we knew. The line for the taxi was so long that we decided to take the bus instead. A high schooler informed us that the bus going to Hongdae already stopped its operations. Back we went to the taxi line.
The taxi driver dropped us in a street unfamiliar to us, we spent around 30 minutes trying to find our way to the hostel. With barely any soul around, we were glad to came across a Mini Stop. The kind stranger who looked like Jung YongHwa (must bet the Busan effect!) walked us back to our hostel.
And as much as loved our two days in Busan, getting lost in Seoul still made us feel glad to be back in our beds at Hongdae Housetel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which KR Pass should I buy?
Which KR Pass you buy should be depends on how many there are in your group, how old you are, how many days you’re staying, and how many consecutive days you will be travelling. All these things need to be considered before you decide which KR pass to buy.
Consecutive Pass versus Select Pass
- Korail Consecutive Pass is for travelers who will use the KR Pass on succeeding days. If you’ll be riding the KTX, KTX-Sancheon, ITX-Saemaeul, Saemaeul, Mugunghwa or Nuriro trains on 3 or 5 days in a row. The consecutive passes available are 3 consecutive day pass and 5 consecutive day pass. If you’ll be moving from one province to another on succeeding days, it’s best to buy this pass.
- Korail Select Pass is for travelers who will not be using the KR Pass on consecutive days but for a couple of days within 10 days from the first day of commencement. This is for travelers who will be staying at a province or city for a couple of days before using the KR Pass again. The 2 day select pass and 4 day select pass are available.
On my first Seoul to Busan trip, which was also the trip in which this post was based on, my friends and I used the 3 consecutive day pass since the select pass was not yet available in 2014. When my sister and I visited again in 2017 and visited Busan and Seoul, we used the 2 day select pass since we stayed in Seoul for five days before going back to Busan. But instead of the normal adult pass, we purchased the Saver Korail Pass since there were two of us.
Normal versus Saver Pass
- Normal Adult Korail Pass is for travelers who will be purchasing the KR Pass alone or for those traveling solo.
- Saver Korail Pass is for adult travelers who will be buying the KR Pass
The process of buying the Korail pass online and exchanging KR pass for KTX tickets was the same as in 2014.
When do I need a KR Pass?
I get a lot of questions asking whether they really need a Korail Pass. It’s quite difficult to answer especially when I’m not clear about the situation. However, I believe it’s pretty safe to say that if you’re traveling at least twice within 10 days, purchasing a Korail Pass is the cheaper option, especially if you buy the Saver Pass.
A Saver KR Pass (2 select day pass) is worth 111,000, while a one-way Economy KTX ticket is worth 59,800. If you’ll be purchasing another one-way ticket within 10 days, that’ll be 119,600. A difference of 8,000 KRW may not sound like a lot, but that can already buy you a pretty good dinner.
Of course, there are cheaper train types such as Mugunghwa. But riding KTX only takes 3 hours to reach Busan from Seoul and vice-versa, while the the Mugunghwa train takes 6 hours and the ITX-Saemaul takes 4 and a half. And of course, riding the bus is also a cheaper alternative though you’ll spend more hours in the road.
So if you want to spend less time traveling, using the KR Pass to ride the KTX is best way to do it. The KR Pass is also ideal for people who plan on riding the KTX not just once per day. So if you’ll be dropping by a province from Busan on your way to Seoul for a short tour, purchasing the KR Pass is ideal.
You can check the ticket prices at the official Korail website.
Where can I leave my luggage?
There are luggage storage services at airports and train stations. You can try this luggage storage service if you’re looking for one in Seoul. It’s available at the Incheon Airport, Gimpo Airport, Seoul Station, and Hongdae Station. Unfortunately I cannot find one for Gimhae Airport, if you’re coming from Busan. I do know that there’s one at the Busan subway station, which is just outside the Busan station.
I am fortunate that on both times that I traveled from Seoul to Busan and back again, my hosts were always generous enough to leave my luggage at the hostel.
Other Notes& Reminders:
- When exchanging your voucher ticket, don’t forget to bring your passport and the credit card used for the transaction.
- The Korail Pass needs to be booked online, and you need to print it out. However, they were so nice in Busan that they printed out our vouchers for us!
- If you’re traveling on weekends and holidays, make sure to reserve a seat early! It can get pretty crowded and you might have to wait at the station later than what you initially intended.
- There were tons of food kiosks and convenience stores around the stations so you don’t have to settle for the food served at the train. We bought Korea snacks from kiosks and had fun eating it on our travel.
- You can bring your luggage with you! There are areas inside the train for the luggage.
- If possible, arrange your flights so you wouldn’t have to go on two-way KTX trips. Haha.
Other way to buy a KR Pass:
Aside from the Korail website, you can also purchase a KR Pass on Trazy.com or Klook.com
. Just read up on the full details on their website. It’s pretty much the same thing, but you’ll only be booking a different website.
What’s great about this is that you only need to present a valid passport for identification to claim your KR pass. Yes, you won’t have to worry about bringing the credit card you used for booking.
Other important readings on traveling from Seoul to Busan:
- Korail 101 – a must read!
- How to Travel by Train in South Korea Pain Free
- KR-Pass question on Reddit
- How to travel by rail in Korea
- Traveling with Korea Rail (KR) Pass on TripAdvisor
- Cheap way to ride KTX in Korea – KR PASS
- How To Go To Busan From Seoul By Flight, Train, Bus And Car
- How to Travel from Seoul to Busan by Bus
For more questions on how to travel from Seoul to Busan or Busan to Seoul, you can comment below or you can send me a quick message on Facebook.
Autumn in Korea 2014 Travelogue:
- Seoul Accommodation: Hongdae Family Housetel (Pencil Hotel 3)
- Busan Accommdation: Hi Korea Hostel
- Aboard KTX Express From Seoul to Busan And Back Again
- Fall in (Love With) Korea
- Fall in Korea Day 1: N Seoul Tower At Night
- Fall in Korea Day 2: The Cliffside Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in Busan
- Fall in Korea Day 2: Fried Chicken Night at Gwangalli Beach, Busan
- Fall in Korea Day 3: Sunrise at Haeundae Beach, Busan
- Fall in Korea Day 2: Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan
- Fall in Korea Day 2: Lunch at Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan
- Fall in Korea Day 3: Busan Tower and BIFF Square
- Fall in Korea Day 4: Ihwa Mural Village at Naksan Park, Seoul
- Fall in Korea Day 4: Exploring Hongdae and Edae in Seoul
- Fall in Korea Day 5: Autumn Foliage in Nami Island
Aaaahh ang ganda Jane! Nakakatempt talaga pumunta sa Korea dahil sa mga posts mo! 🙂
Yaaaay! Sana ma-convince ka na nito na unahin ang Korea sa list mo! Hahaha 🙂
LOL okay for some (katangahan) reason, ditto napost young comment ko instead sa Fall in (love with) Korea post. Wth hahahaha
Hi Jane, I came across your blog on getting a KR Pass to Busan. I have a few questions to enquire with you and hope that you will be able to help me. 🙂
I am looking at purchasing a KR pass to busan on 28th May but I’m arriving at seoul on 27th. So for the expected date of arrival, which should i put? I will need to get 2 passes so I have to reserve the ticket twice? and will we be able to find out on the train schedules upon reserving the tickets?
Sorry if i asked too many questions, hope to hear from you soon! Thanks! 🙂
Hi Sheena! 🙂
It doesn’t matter which date you put, because you can exchange the ticket within the next 180 days. But I guess you can put May 27. 🙂 By 2 passes, do you mean you’re booking for two people? I booked for four people and only made the reservation once. Once booking online, you’ll get a voucher which you have to exchange for passes in the station. As for the train schedule, we didn’t see it until we got to the station.
There’s one leaving almost every 30 minutes, though! 🙂
Hi Jane,
Yeap, i meant by booking for two people. Thanks so much for the help, really appreciate it! 😀
Hi Jane,
I have few question would like to enquire, hope you dont mind !
According your blog, I saw there a Youth Pass that you said was 13 – 25, but is it sure that in the main web in korail saying required a international student ID card only entitled this privilege?
(Of course I hope I could pick saver, but I’m traveling alone, therefore really hope I could entitled a Youth Pass, so I could spend more on food 😀 )
And for 2nd Question, do I have to be at Busan Station at 7pm as you mentioned? I will be choosing 10:30pm(last KTX train) to go back Seoul, what is the recommended time? Is 10pm is fine to reach at Busan Station?
3rd Question, Once I reach Busan, am I supposed to book return back to Seoul once I reach Busan?? (I’m getting a 1day pass for this). Because I saw you mention “Keep your Korea Rail Pass safe because you’ll be needing that once you’re booking your return ticket to Seoul in Busan Station”
Hope to see your reply soon! Thanks and Sorry for my bad English 😀
Hi Andy! Wow, you’re traveling alone? That sounds really fun!
1. We are no longer students so we didn’t present student IDs. Youth Pass is for anyone between the age 13-25 or anyone holding an international student id. 🙂
2. I suggested the 7 PM time because we had difficulties booking an early return trip despite being there at around 8PM. We were aiming for a 9PM trip, but ended up with an 11PM ticket. So maybe you don’t have to go there early if you’re not planning to go back to Seoul early. ^^
3. So you’re only spending a day in Busan? I guess once arriving in Busan, you can try booking immediately for your return trip. I haven’t tried it, though, so I’m not sure. Sorry!
Don’t worry, your English is fine. 🙂 I hope I managed to help you somehow. Enjoy your trip!
Andy you can purchase a ticket both seoul to busan or vice versa in any station..
If you buy ticket in seoul station from seoul to busan you can book also your ticket from busan to seoul…? ?
Hello Janey
Thanks for sharing with us your travel experience in Korea. I’ve some questions about the Korean Rail (Korail) pass.
I’ve made a reservation for Korail Saver 3days pass as I’m travelling in a group of 2. We arrive at Incheon airport at 4pm on Day1 and will like to take the KTX from Incheon airport to Busan, same day. Will return from Busan to Seoul station after 2days in Busan to travel within Seoul for another 5days. Do I need to reserve/buy KTX train tickets to Busan and back via online now? Or on arrival Day1, I can already use/present the Korail Saver 3days pass to board the KTX trains to Busan and back? Or I can only exchange for KTX tickets to Busan upon showing the Korail pass on arrival Day1?
Thank you & looking forward for your advice.
Hi, Kordy! You can only exchange the e-ticket/voucher once you arrive in Korea. Remember to bring your passport and the credit card you used for the reservation. Once you exchange it, you can use it within 180 days from the time you made the reservation of tickets. Once you arrive at the KTX station in Seoul, exchange it for the Korail Saver 3-day pass, which is only usable for the next three days including the day you purchase it. Then, use the pass to get a KTX ticket from Seoul to Busan. Keep that pass with you, so you can use it again when you buy a ticket to go back to Seoul after two days in Busan. I hope I make sense, because I’m not sure if I explained it correctly.
Hello Jane
Thanks again. But does one actually need the Korail pass to travel on KTX? What is the Korail pss use for? Because I will only be travelling direct to Busan and back to Seouul and not to other cities from Busan. Should I be getting only the KTX ticket instead of Korail pass+KTX ticket? I don’t want to spend more $$ on getting the Korail pass when I’ve no use for it. Unless only with Korail pass then I can get KTX ticket and at a discount?
In addition, any idea what time does the diners/cafes closed at Gwangalli beach? Because I will reach Busan at around 10pm and may just want to head to see the bridge at night.
Thanks.
Hello, you don’t need to use a Korail pass if you don’t want to. But I just find the 3-day Korail pass a lot cheaper than getting separate tickets for the back and forth tickets. A one-way pass (Standard) costs 59,800 KRW for adults, but a Normal 3-day unlimited Korail pass (that’s what we bought) costs only 93,100 KRW. So if I didn’t buy the Korail pass, I had to buy two 59,800 KRW KTX tickets, and that would have cost us more.
It’s really your choice. I’m not an authority on this, and I only share things based on my experience. Sorry if it gets confusing.
We stayed at Gwangalli Beach until around 10-10:30PM and many stores were still open. I’m just not sure until what time.
Thanks Jane for your wonderful help. Finally I get the idea that I can just use the Korail pass without having to buy separate KTX ticket. I ws under the impression that with a Korail pass I still need the KTX ticket.
Hi Kordy! Sorry I wasn’t clear about that. But I’m glad to be of help. 🙂
Hi Kordy,
Am trying to book the 3-day pass for 2 pax but I cant seem to find an option to reserve for 2 pax.
Only see an option to key my details and that’s it. Need some help.
Regards,
LIz
Hi Jane, i will be travelling to busan and my flight will arrived at incheon airport at 3.35pm. I should not be able to catch the direct ktx train from airport to busan at 4.35pm. The next train is 6.35pm which will reach busan at 10pm.
Is there any alternatives to recommend? If i were to travel to seoul station then to busan station, will it be better? In this case, do i have to reserve the tickets first? I am bringing my 2 yr old daughter, so i am very worried that we will reach busan real late.
Hi Zen! I am honestly not sure which one’s faster, because i have yet to travel to Busan straight from Incheon airport. However, I do know that there’s a KTX train leaving the Seoul station every 20-30 minutes, so you might find a train that leaves early. But I wonder if you’ll be able to arrive at the Seoul station earlier than 6:35pm? I’m not sure how long it take to travel via the airport express.
Sorry I’m not much help!
Hello Zen.. there are more train schedules departing from Seoul station to Busan. I will be taking the airport express (AREX) from Incheon to Seoul then KTX to Busan. You can check the KTX schedule via Korail site. Hope this helps….
Hi! Your post is really helpful. I was wondering if we could purchase KR Pass using cash? I don’t want to use my credit card since this is an international transaction.
Hello Huayyu. That’s actually something I do not know, because I haven’t tried it yet. I don’t think you can use cash when doing the online reservation, though.
Yes you can use cash…. but only korean won.
So change your $ to ₩
Hi Carl~
So we actually can purchase our Korail Pass at the counter using cash?
It will be a great help if you could reply to me. Thank you~
Hi Carl! I don’t think you can just pay it via cash since you need to book the Korail Pass online, and only exchange it for the voucher over the counter. It’s been a while since I last booked the ticket so I’m not sure if they have more payment methods now.
hi jane! need to ask u about saver pass(for groups of 2-5people travelling on the same itinerary) means u buy 1pass for 5 of u or 1person 1pass with the price of saver pass?thankU!
I’m sorry I don’t quite understand your question. Think of it as one plane itinerary for five people. So I guess to answer your question, I bought 1 pass for 4 person, and of course, in the price of five saver passes. I hope that makes sense. Hehe.
Hi Jane..
I am traveling in group of 2 people.
If i were to buy the 3 days pass saver group,the price i need to pay is 93 100 won per person? Or it will cost me 93100 won times 2?
This is such an amazing blog entry as I have been researching information on what to see and do in Busan.
cheers!
Hello Janey! Came across your blog and found this really informative! Quick check, the purchase of Korail pass can only access the KTX train from INC to Busan? Is the pass usable for subway in Busan? I’m planning a 4D3N visit to Busan and thinking what’s the cheapest option to go with it as I will either have to get 2x 1 day pass or 1x 5 days pass as there is no 4 days pass available. 🙁 Just wanna check out if the pass is usable for subway rides in Busan so to determine if it is worthy in getting one.
Looking forward to your favorable reply! 🙂
Cheers,
Cemone
Hi Cemone! I suggest that you compute which one will be cheaper (a 2x 1-day pass or a 1 5-day pass). We only stayed in Busan for 2 days and opted to get a 3-day pass since it was still cheaper than getting two 1-day pass. I think buying 2 1-day passes is more ideal in your situation, though.
When getting around Busan, we used the T-Money card, which we also used in Seoul. I don’t think the Korail pass can be used when riding in the subway in Busan, since the subway is apart from the KTX. But the 5-day Korail pass will be ideal if you plan to stop by other provinces on your way to Busan or on your way back to Seoul via the KTX.
I hope that helps!
Hey Jane! Thanks for the prompt response in clearing my queries. Getting a much clearer picture here but I’m still contemplating which option to go with. 😛 Will give a thought about it. Thanks sweetie! 🙂
Hello Cemone
I just returned from Busan/Seoul trip and sharing my experience with u..
I suggest U get the 5-day KTX pass since u’re travelling 4D3N. The same pass can be used for ur travel back to Seoul from Busan. U’ll get a discount for AREX (Seoul airport express) from Incheon airport to Seoul when u present ur KTX pass to exchange for the KTX tickets. However if u think it’s not worth to “waste” a day for the 5days pass, u can adjust ur Busan stay to 5D4N or 3D2N for the 3days pass. Just note that the pass is activated on the day of travel (1st day) and you need to return to Seoul on the 3rd/5th day before expiry.
If you’re travelling in a group of 2 and more, get the KTX group saver pass as it’s cheaper.
U first need to make online reservation for the KTX pass. Ensure all the details are filled in per passport, print the reservation and present that to exchange for ur KTX pass. Don’t lose this pass since u need it for ur return journey.
There’re more train schedules from Seoul to Busan than from Incheon to Busan. U can check the schedule online. Ensure u reach the tracks way before the scheduled departure. The train leaves on the dot. Fyi, the time on the tickets are the departure time.
There’re no rooms for bulky luggage on KTX trains. So it could be a problem if u’re carrying bulky luggages on 2nd class. No issues for 1st class but the KTX pass only allows 2nd class. Extra charges for 1st.
Get/Borrow T-money subway/metro cards for ur travel in Busan/Seoul. Top-up is easy as there R vending machines at subway stations or at convenient stores. Refund for T-money is possible, less KRW500 processing fees at convenient stores at Incheon airport.
Fyi, for ur shopping purchases.
It’s better to shop at those shops that offer tax refund like Global tax free/Global Blue/Orange tax free. U can get cash refund immediately at downtown tax refund centres like at Myeongdong’s Lotte Dept Store/ IM Plaza/ Woori Bank/ Dongdaemun’s Doota/ ApgujeongRodeo’s Galleria Luxury Store.
U need to pledge Visa/Mastercard/Amex credit card to get the immediate cash which u can spend again. Please bring all 3 type of credit cards as each refund centre may require different credit card as pledge.
At the airport u only need to Q at the customs stamp Q and get ur receipts stamped at customs instead of Q-ing for the cash refund and Q again for the customs stamp. If u don’t get the customs stamp, the drawback is a 15% surcharge for the cash u’ve taken will be imposed. Purchases less than KRW50,000 won’t be checked by customs. But it’s still advisible to pack all ur purchases in 1 bag in case customs still wants to check it. U can check in ur bags after u get the custom stamps at the same place. The custom is behind check-in counters D and J at Incheon airport. So depending on ur airline/check-in counter, choose the nearest custom counter. Ensure u have more than enough time because there’re only 2 custom counters for the entire Incheon airport and the Q is horribly long.
Hope this helps.
Thank you so much for this, Kordy!
Woah! Thanks a bunch Kordy! That pretty much described everything! I’m sure you had a wonderful trip back in Korea and that’s so lovely of you sharing the tips to us!
Hi,
Would just like to ask which dates you were in korea that time and how was thr temperature? My friend and I are going oct 17-26. We will also be spending 3 days on busan, will the 3 day pass be ok? Will medium luggage er also fine on the train? Thank you
Hi HeeRa! We went to Busan on Nov. 5-6, 2014, and the temperature, although cold, was not as cold as it was in Seoul. I think it ranged from 11-15°C during the day and 7-9°C at night. Yes, I’m pretty sure the three day pass will be okay. As for the luggage, I think this is a pretty good source of information: http://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/ShowTopic-g294197-i8161-k4551037-KTX_large_amount_of_luggage-Seoul.html. We only had large backpacks and they fit at the luggage compartment overhead. Thanks!
Hello Hee Ra
I struggled with a 28″ luggage onboard KTX as I don’t feel safe leaving my luggage at the doorway where I cannot see my luggage at all. The train cabin door is opaque and some trains may have transparent cabin doors. So it depends. Unless u can find something that u can tie ur baggage to, or like me keep my 28″ on the aisle where I moved it whenever the snack/coffee trolleys passed. 24″ and 21″ can be kept under the seats, but ensure it is not bulky because of limited space. A 3days pass for Busan means u actually only spent 1.5days in Busan because the rest is ur trravel time between Busan and Seoul.
Hope this helps.
Hi,
How about travel in Seoul by Hop On & Hop Off City Tour Bus compared to train ?
I will be staying in Seoul for 5 days, then only go to Busan. So I can purchase train ticket at airport for 1) train ticket to Seoul Station and 2) train ticket from Seoul to Busan at the same time in order to get discount ??
Hi Diana. I haven’t tried traveling in Seoul by Hop On & Hop Off City Tour Bus, so I’m not sure.
As for your second question, I’m not sure what discount you mean. The subway ticket to Seoul station is different from the KR Pass. The subway when traveling within Seoul is different from the KTX. Can you further clarify your question?
Hi Jane,
I need to travel from Incheon Airport to hotel in Myeongdong. Stay there for 5 days, then travel to Busan.
So which is the best saving way on transportation?
Hello. From Incheon airport to Myeongdong, either take the Airport Railroad Express, which is part of the subway system within Seoul. However, I usually ride the bus from the Incheon airport to Seoul, because I find it inconvenient to carry around a luggage when riding the subway. There are often no escalators in subway stations. Hehe.
When going to Busan, I advise to take the KTX, which is different from the Airport Railroad Express. Will you also need to go back to Seoul? Then you’ll only need a 1-day pass.
Hello Diana
From Incheon –> Seoul: AREX (non-stop 43mins, KRW6900/pax with Korail 2pax Saver pass discount) or subway (all-stops, 1hr, abt KRW4150)
From Seoul –> Myeongdong: subway
Buy T-money transport card for subway w/in Seoul. Same card can be used in Busan.
From Seoul –> Busan: KTX (every 30mins arrival)
If u’re travelling in grp of 2pax or more, get the Saver pass. This pass allows u to get discount for AREX too. But pass needs to be reserved online. Ensure all details are completed. Print confirmation and exchange for pass at AREX counter. Korail train schedule and prices are available online.
Hope this helps.
Thank you for this, it’s very helpful. I’m planning to get on the first KTX train to Busan which leaves around 5 AM. I read somewhere that the Info center where the Voucher may be exchanged for the KR Pass at Seoul Station opens at 9 AM. So I think I need to get the KR Pass at the airport once I arrive, although I won’t be using it unit after 2 days. But you did mention that the pass is valid for 180 days, so I’m good, right? I can exchange the voucher for my pass at the airport, then go to the ticketing booth at Seoul Station to book the trip?
Hi Vienna, the voucher (or the itinerary, whichever you call it) is valid for 180 days after you do the online reservation. This means that you can exchange it for the KR pass anytime within the 180 days. The KR Pass however is already activated once you exchange the voucher for the pass. If you exchange it two days before your intended trip, then I’m afraid you’ll be wasting the two days of your KR Pass. I’m sorry I wasn’t that clear about it
Ohh, I see. I understand now. This saves me a lot of headache. Thanks for your reply! 🙂
You’re welcome! I should have explained it better. 🙂
Hi Jane,
There is few questions that I wanted to ask,
(1) if next year I’m 26 but my birthday is during June but we are going Korea during March. Do I still able to get youth pass?
(2) If there are 4 of us travelling and 3 out of 4 are 25 and another 1 is 26, is it better to get the saver pass or youth pass?
Hi Sue! I believe you’re still eligible for a youth pass because technically you’re still 25 years old. Well, the youth pass is cheaper than the saver pass, but for the sake of your companion, I guess the saver pass. 🙂
Thanks for the reply =) I actually added up 3 youth pass plus 1 adult or 4 saver pass, the one with youth pass and 1 adult are cheaper. Hopefully as you said, we are still eligible for the youth pass. ^^
I really hope so! Enjoy your trip! I’m pretty sure it will be pretty epic with your friends. 🙂
Hi Jane !
I found your blog post about the KTX to Busan very informative and would like to thank you for sharing your experience with us ! I would like to ask you about the Saver pass.
For the Saver pass it cost 132,000 won for a 5 Day pass does it mean for a group of 4 people , do we just have to buy 1 pass and share it among ourselves or each individual person have to fork out 132,000 won for each pass ?
So sorry to bother you about it and thank you so much in advance !
Take Care ! 😀
Hi Meta Wong~ I’m glad that you found it useful! 🙂
The 132,000 won for a 5-day pass is only good for 1 person. So yes, each individual needs to fork out 132,000 won for the Saver Pass. You can just book one itinerary for the entire group, which is what we did. 🙂
Hi is the saver pass can be used for 4 persons under one price. I mean like, if I look up on the website, saver pass for youth will cost 53000 won. Is the 53000 won will be charged per person or will it be 53000 won for 4 persons?
Hi Alia. The youth pass and saver pass are priced differently. Saver Pass is 63000 and Youth pass is 56300 won. The prices on the website are the cost for the individual, not for groups. Let me know if my explanations are still not clear. I’ll try to explain it in more detail. 🙂
Hi Jane,
Just wondering, did you stay in Busan on your first day there or did you go back to Seoul for both nights?
Hello! We stayed in Busan on our first day, then went back to Seoul on the second. 🙂
Hi Jane, do you know if KORAIL Pass also covers ITX – Cheongchun?
And I’m quite confused, after exchanging the e-ticket to the korail pass, we need to show the pass in order to get the train ticket right?
1. Do they also give out tickets using the pass in Busan station or did you have to exchange your itinerary tickets (seoul to busan and then busan to seoul) in seoul station?
2. And did you have the privilege to choose the departure time and seats?
Hi Karlo!
I don’t think you can use the Korail Pass for ITX-CheongChun, since it’s not included in the list on the website. However, I believe T-Money will suffice.
Yes, you need to show the Korail pass when buying the train ticket, or else you’ll be asked to pay again. Do not lose the Korail pass because it’s also the pass you’ll be using the at the Busan Station when buying a KTX ticket to Seoul.
We just took the earliest possible departure time, but yes, I believe you have the liberty to choose. As for the seats, we just took what’s given to us, but you can ask to be seated together with your companions.
Hi Jane,
Just a clarificatory question to make sure I understand you correctly.
I will be arriving at Seoul on Day 1 and will be going to Busan on Day 3 for a day trip (preferably one of the earlier trips to maximize my time in Busan). Therefore, I plan on purchasing a 1-day KR Pass.
Since you said that the Pass will be activated once one exchanges the voucher for the pass, then I should only make the exchange on Day 3, right before my target departure time? After I exchange the Pass, I should present this to get a KTX ticket?
Appreciate your response.
Regards,
Andrea
Hi Andrea! Yes, you should only make the exchange on the day itself. After exchanging the voucher/itinerary for the Korail Pass, proceed to the ticketing booth and present your Korail pass to get your KTX ticket. This is also the Korail pass you’ll present at the Busan station when getting your return ticket to Seoul so make sure not to lose it. Enjoy your trip!:)
Thanks Jane for the quick response. Really helpful.
Lastly, I just want to get your opinion. Unfortunately, my friend and companion in my trip was not granted a visa. However, I still want to push through with the trip. It will be my first time travelling alone in a foreign country. Do you think it will be hard to travel alone in Korea, especially for a woman, or is it relatively easy to navigate? I heard it’s hard to find someone who speaks English there. Is that true?
I’ve travelled to Japan before, albeit with family, but I though it was pretty easy to go around.
Thanks,
Andrea
Hi Andrea! I really really really really think you should push through with the trip! Though they’re not good English speakers, they make a lot of effort in trying to be understood. Koreans are really helpful, and they don’t mind whipping out their smartphones to help you find your way when you get lost! A couple of times, Koreans went out of their way just to make sure we get home safely or we get off at the right subway stop.:)
Korea, specifically Seoul, is very tourist-friendly. I have quite a handful of female friends who have toured Korea solo, and they only have great things to say about their experience. It’s also something I wish I can experience for myself someday. 🙂
Good luck with your trip, and I really hope you go through with it. 🙂
Thanks for this blog. Going to Seoul -Busan at the end of November. Mas makakatipid na ako kkk
Hi Jane,
Loved how you provide information about the KTX from Seoul to Busan 🙂
However, I’m still a little confused about the KORaIL PaSS, and I hope you’d help me to clarify my doubts.
1. For the KORaIL PaSS, if I were to go Busan on 26 Dec from Seoul and return to Seoul on 28 Dec. Is getting the 3-days pass sufficient?
2. Since the website states that the pass has to be used on consecutive days (e.g. 12/1, 12/2, 12/3), could I still use it on 28 Dec to return back to Seoul since I won’t be using it on the 27 Dec?
3. as I am still below 25, can I purchased the YOUTH PaSS instead, as the korail website states “for youths aged 13 to 25 or anyone holding an International Student Identification Card (ISIC)” but on the korea website, it states ” Youth Pass: International Student ID card holders age between 13-25″ ?
4. If I am able to purchase the youth pass, do I have to make reservation twice since I’ll be booking for 2 ? as the reservation form is only for individual if i were to purchase the youth pass.
Sorry for the questions. Hope you could help me out as I got really confused reading each & every time.
Thank you!!!
Hi Cass! Thank you for reading, and your questions are an eye-opener. I realized that there are so many things I failed to clarify on my post. So thank you for shooting for your questions!
1 & 2. It should be sufficient, but like what you’ve said, the pass must be used for consecutive. I’m not sure if it will be invalidated if you wouldn’t use it on the 27th, because the website doesn’t mention anything about it.
3. I go by the letskorail.com website rules, I believe you can still use the Youth Pass.
4. Sorry I haven’t tried buying a Youth Pass (we bought Saver Pass), but if it won’t let you buy for multiple individuals, then I’m afraid you have to book individually. What matters is that when you exchange your KR Pass, you present the credit card used in booking it.
To be sure, you can email: ych2145@korail.com. It’s the email they provide on the official KR Pass voucher, so I hope it’ll work.
Again, thank you!
Hi Janey,
Good day to you. Can I check with you regarding the KTX booking to Busan from Seoul. How can I book the group saver ticket from the website you provided. I try to book and it only allow me to key in my details as individual. When it come to payment it only show me the standard fees for individual. I am going to Busan from Seoul on Mar 2016 with a group of 9 people. I am curious how does the booking for more than 2 ppl which entitle me for the group saver ticket price.
Appreciate your guidance on this.
did u manage to get a solution for this? I’m having the same problem. only option to key in one person’s details.
Hi Janey,
I would like to know whether we can only exchange the e-ticket on the day that we want to use or maybe we can exchange it earlier than the date we want to travel?
I’m planning to take 3-days pass.
Hello Mashi! I’m pretty sure the validity of your KR Pass starts on the day you exchange the e-ticket. So I suggest you exchange it on the day you plan to use it.
Dear Jane,
Thanks for the advise.
Since i’ll be travelling to Busan on Sunday, i wonder if the materials that i read in Official site of Korea Tourism Org as below is true?
Exchanging ticket sales
– Incheon Airport Railroad Information Center: 09:00-21:30 (open all year round)
– Seoul Station: 09:00-18:00 (open on weekdays / closed on weekends & holidays)
– Busan Station: 09:00-18:00 (open on weekdays / closed on weekends & holidays)
Hi Mashi! I’m not sure if you’ll still be able to read this, since it’s already Sunday! I’m not sure how accurate that is. But I’m note sure if it’s not close on weekends. That’s pretty weird though, because there are many travelers on weekends! We exchanged our tickets on a weekday, so I can’t know for sure.
Hi Jane,
Thanks for sharing the information. But I’m still a little confused about saver pass. FYI, me and my friends (4 persons) will go to Korea for the 2nd time on 31/08/2016 until 04/09/2016 and we decided to go to Seoul at this time because at the time we went for the 1st time (2014) we just walk around Busan. Expected time for our flight arrival at Gimhae International Airport is at 08.45am. We will go to Seoul the same day then return back to Busan on 03/09/2016 (4D3N).
1. Do you have recommended time for us from Busan to Seoul (31/08/2016)
2. For saver pass (2-5 person), price shown for individually right?
3. Which one saver, railplus or T-Money?
4. Are we use the same pass when we go back to busan on 03/09/2016 or do we need to pay some amount again for ticket back to busan.
Looking forward for your advice.
Thanks (^^,)v
Mas
Dear Jane,
Would like to know about the booking process of the Korail Pass.
I will arrive in Seoul on 28 March 2016 and taking KTX on 3 April 2016. When I book 3-days-use ticket through the website, the expected date that I need to fill up is 28 March 2016 and I need to exchange it to the real Korail Pass on 3 April 2016 itself?
OR I can just show up to them on 28 March 2016 and tell them to issue Korail Pass for me starting 3 April 2016?
Actually, this Korail Pass is just a pass for us to get KTX tickets to whatever provinces we want to visit, right? We still need to show the Korail Pass to the counter staff for them to give us KTX ticket (without further payment anymore) and book a seat for us upon our departure to certain city, right?
Sorry for asking these questions to you, just want to clarify my doubts.
Regards
Mon
Hi Mon! Sorry I wasn’t able to reply to your inquiries. 🙁 I hope your trip went well!
Dear Mon,
I would like to ask you regarding your booking process of Korail Pass as I have the same problem with you.
I will arrive in Seoul on 4th August 2016 and taking KTX to Busan on 5th August 2016.
So should I redeem the actual Korail Pass on 5th August 2016
OR like your suggestion, I can just show up on 4th August and inform them to issue my Korail Pass on 5th August 2016?
Appreciate your guidance on this matter.
With regards,
Nia
hi jane, jus reading thru ur blog very informative.
however, i am confused with the kr pass. i read u can buy it online 1 month before travel so i did today. printed my e ticket to read. it says i must exchange this voucher for kr pass before 10th april. so i am confused as i put estimate arrival in korea on 15th april.
does that i can no longer exchange for kr pass?
what shall i do now? cancel it?
Hi! That is INDEED confusing. Unless they changed the guidelines now, you really should be able to exchange for the voucher on the 15th.
If you want, you can send me the screenshot of your itinerary via email at ohmyjaneyblog@gmail.com and we can talk more there.
thanks jane. i ended up cancelling the korail pass. but it has already charged my credit card in full. i thought i read somewhere that your credit card only get charges when you exchange for the ticket at the station? did your credit card get charged on the day you made the reservation online? it does say if you havent exchange for ticket within 180days, the pass will automatically be cancelled. I have gone online to cancel it but looks like l have to wait 180days for a refund 🙁
Hello. It’s sad that this happened to you. 🙁 I do hope everything will be find afterwards and you’ll get the full refund. I was only charged on the day that I exchanged my voucher for my Korail pass. So I’m quite confused. They must have changed the mechanics or something. This guide was based on a trip I made on my travel back in 2014. I do update the site regularly though, so I’m not sure if this is a new process.
Hi. Hope you dont mind if i ask you if you got your refund? I also have to cancel mine but my card has been charged already. Help please.
Hi there, so nice writing about traveling to Korea. Here is more tips for you. Especially, I strongly recommend to use the ‘Korail pass’ for traveling to out of cities like Busan, Singyeongju, Jeonju, Yeosu etc. Seoul is the capital in Korea and nice city and out of city, there are lots of nice city as much as Seoul. You can make a reservation by yourself before coming to Korea, or not, you can purchase directly from the airport and Seoul station. With passport and credit card, you can buy a ‘Korail pass’ from travel center in ICN. There are normal, saver and youth pass as you know and also 1day, 3days, 5days and 7days pass so you can choose whatever you need. If you want to get more information about Korail pass, please visit to travel center in ICN. Thank you.
Hi Arex! Are you an official representative or an online specialist for AREX? Maybe you can help answer some of the questions here? 🙂 Thanks!
Hi Jane, came across your blog to read and it was very informative.
Just to check with you, if my Friend and I are going to Busan for 2 days, is it possible for us not to buy the Korea rail pass since we are just going from Seoul to Busan and back to Seoul again. Just buy the KTX for round trip is enough?
Also, within Busan, all we need is just T money pass for the subway right ?
Hi JT. It is possible for you to just buy a round trip KTX ticket if you think it’s cheaper. We only spent 2 days in Busan, too, but found it cheaper to buy the Korail pass. It’s really up to you. 🙂
Yes, the Tmoney can be used in the Busan subway.
Hi Jane, If we are buying the Youth pass w/o the international student ID but under the age of 25, is it possible for us to get it?
Hi JT! I haven’t tried it yet, but in my understanding and based on others’ experiences, you wouldn’t be needing an ID. 🙂
Hi Jane,
I will be heading to Busan from Seoul during the first 3 days of my trip. I’ve booked the KORAIL Pass for 2 pax (3-day Pass from SAVER) and paid 87,900 won x 2 pax = 175,800 won in total.
Just checking, this amount is only for a 1-way trip to Busan or round-way trip back and forth to Seoul?
As in, upon returning to Seoul, as I’m presenting the KORAIL Pass, do I still need to pay another 175,800 won? I’m kinda confused. Just making sure I’m doing it right!
Hope to get your response soon. Thank you!!!
hi Joyce, when you made the 2 pax Saver Pass booking, was there an option to select no. of pax? I don’t see it in the form now. I can only enter 1 person’s details.
Did you go to other places using your Korail Pass? Or just Seoul to Busan and back?
Oh, sorry, I found the answer heheh You may delete these comments 😀
Hi Jane, your blog is very informative! Btw, we would like to travel from busan to seoul roundtrip in 1 day. Is it better to purchase the KR pass? And can we also use the kr pass around busan? Thanks.
Hi Anna. For your first question, I honestly buying the KR Pass is cheaper, but staying in Busan for just a day is such a shame! There are seriously a lot of things to see.
You cannot use the KR Pass around Busan. You can use T-Money in Busan, though. cheers! 🙂
hi there, am trying to make the e-reservation for the KTX Saver Pass, but there isn’t an option to enter other traveller’s details or select Saver Pass. do i have to make individual reservations?
Hi Liz! I honestly don’t know why you’re encountering this. Maybe the site is acting up? It’s been awhile since I wrote this guide so I’m not sure if it’s still as accurate.
sorry my mistake. didn’t realise there was an option to scroll down when i was selecting Adult, Child, etc.. didn’t notice the Saver Pass before this. thanks for replying.
Hi Jane,
If I’m travelling to busan for 2 days with my friend. I am thinking if I should buy the Saver Pass or just the KTX ticket.
The KTX is 53,900won while the Saver pass is 102,000won. You mention that buying 3 day pass would be cheaper is it because the amount divided by 3 days? For the KTX the 102,000 is for 1 day or 2 days?
BTW, for the above price stated, do I still need to pay again for going back to Seoul or is already included?
If let’s say we decided to buy the 3-day KORAIL pass, can we go to the Seoul station to exchange the voucher 1 day in advance before our date of departure (15 sep – 16 sep to Busan)?
Sorry if I ask too many questions.
Hi Janey,
Is there webpage that I can go to, to view the KTX schedule?
Liz
Hi Liz! I’m sorry but I cannot find one. 🙁
Hi, your blog is very informative! 🙂 i Jane some questions that i wanna clarify, i would be really appreciate it if you can help me out.
1. If i get a pass, there’s no way i can reserve a ticket except physically going to the station right? Because I’m scared that the train that we are planning to take is gonna be sold out by the time we arrive Seoul as we have a tight schedule.. (we going to jeonju so the train is not as frequent as going to busan)
2. When we do go to the station to reserve the ticket, does everyone of us have to be there? Or we can have a couple people reserving for the whole group (maybe with a photocopy of our passports?)
3. Is there a customer service line that we can call regarding kinds of questions? English or Korean?
Thanks in advance ! 🙂
Hi Katherine! Thank you for dropping. 🙂
1. I’m not sure how you can reserve tickets if not physically.
2. This is another thing I’m not sure of. 🙁 The website doesn’t provide any clear information about it, but I think the real passport and not a photocopy is required.
3. You can try the contact information they provided here: http://www.letskorail.com/ebizbf/EbizBfContactUs_eng.do They also have an information booth at Incheon International Airport (1st floor, Passenger Terminal), so I guess you can inquire there the moment you land in Seoul.
I’m sorry I’m not much help, but I hope I managed to answer most of the questions.
Hi Jane,
May I know if 3-day use pass is for single trip or round trip ticket?
Hi Mary! It’s for a round trip ticket. But the KR Pass actually lets you ride the KTX unlimited times.
Thanks for your reply, Jane. Have a great day 🙂
HiJane,
Your ticket was from Manila to Busan, right?
and From Seoul (Incheon to Manila)? or you went back to Busan in order to get home? thank you.
Im sorry, I just read Incheon. I wasn’t really reading. Just take a look on the picture. sorry.
hi, would like to check if it is possible for us to carry heavy luggage on ktx train to busan? as we will alight incheon and proceed to busan first before coming back to seoul. thank u!
Hi Esther! I know who brought their luggage with them, I just don’t know where they placed it. But yes, it’s perfectly possible to bring heavy luggage with you. 🙂
Hello! just saw this post. i want to ask you, if you don’t mind. the youth pass for ktx, is it only for koreans and those with the international student identity card (isic) as per listed in the website or is it also available for visitors/tourists like me (i’m 20 y/o) without the isic card?
am i allowed to purchase the youth pass with just my passport or is there limitation to it? please advise. haha i don’t quite get that part in the website!! thank you!!
p.s. i’m not sure if i’ll be notified if you replied me, but in any case, do drop an email to me thank u!!!!
Hi Yuni! I believe you don’t need to be a Korean resident/citizen to purchase the Youth pass and you don’t need the ISIC card. As long as you’re within the age bracket (13-25) and you have your passport and the credit card you used in booking the pass. 🙂 Will send you an email in case you won’t be able to see this. ^^
Hi! I want to ask if this route is possible:
Arrival at Incheon to Manila, then departure from Busan to Manila?
Has anyone tried this before?
Hi Berna! I’m a little confused. Do you mean Manila to Inchen, then Busan to Manila? If yes, then I think it’s possible. You can just by a single journey KTX ticket from Seoul to Busan instead of purchasing a KR Pass.
Hi Jane!
you’re blog makes me excited to visit korea. 🙂
anyway, just want to ask if its possible to book multiple city for example: manila to incheon and busan to manila? our korea visa will be valid departing from busan airport?
thanks so much for your reply.
Hi Mish! Yes, the visa is valid even in Busan. 🙂 And flying from Manila to Incheon and Busan to Manila is also okay. 🙂
Hi Janey, it seems that we can’t choose the timings when we book the kr pass.
my friend and I are going from seoul to busan on 2nd april and we want to take the 6.35am train. we’ll be heading back to seoul on 4th april and want to take the 4.55pm train. after I book the pass online, I have to print the confirmation and bring it to the station..i suppose this is the same for the return trip? my grp is just 2 pax and it seems that the saver pass is the cheapest. but we’ll be going during cherry blossom festival i’m afraid most trains will be full and we’ll have to wait long..do you think the standard ticket with allocated timing is the safest esp in peak season like cherry blossom?
Hello Stephanie! I honestly haven’t traveled on the KTX during peak season so I’m not sure how busy the stations will be. I haven’t tried booking the standard tickets, but if you push through with the KR Pass, I suggest coming there at least two hours early, or earlier! Unless of course, you’re fine standing the entire ride. They offered us that option, but we opted to be seated.
Hi there Joey! Just want to check w you, if I were to purchase the ktx flexible 2 days pass, can i use it to travel from seoul -> busan, then busan -> seoul? 🙂
Hi! Yes, that’s what I did for my KR pass. 🙂
Hi there Jane! Just want to check w you, if I were to purchase the ktx flexible 2 days pass, can i use it to travel from seoul -> busan, then busan -> seoul? 🙂
Hello Jane!
if i’m staying in busan for 2d1n (traveling from incheon airport to busan and busan to seoul station), should i get the 3 days krpass? can the 3 days krpass be used to come back from busan as well? or do i need to purchase another ticket from busan to seoul station?
thank you!
Hi Angeline! You can use the Flexible 2 Day Pass. 🙂
HI Jane, is it a must to reserve via website before we arrive in korea? Can we buy the voucher at the korail travel centre? And is there a korail travel centre at the seoul station? (Sorry for typing in capital letters, can’t seem to change with my i pad:(
hi ,
jUST WANT TO ASK DIFFERENT TICKET PABA YUNG I PURCHASE PAG MAG PUNTA NG BUSAN FROM SEOUL?
Hi! Even though you already have a KR Pass, you’ll still need to exchange it for a ticket. 🙂
Hi Jane,
I am travelling with a group of 3 people to busan for 3 days 2 nights. Is it more cheaper for me to buy the saver pass or the youth pass (we are students)? we are intending to buy the flexible 2 day pass.
I am confused about the saver pass. One saver pass (flexible 2 day) cost 91,000. we have a total of 4 people, does that mean we have to pay (91,000 x 4). Or just 91,000 for the 4 of us. Thank you!!! 🙂
-Sar
Hi, Janey!
I just wanna to asking you about Saver Pass
Those price (fLEXIBLE 2 dAY pASS) FOR A GROUP PRICE OR EACH PERSON SHOULD PAY THAT AMOUNT?
tHANKYOU
Each person should pay that amount. 🙂 Sorry I wasn’t clear about that! 🙂
Do they really ask for the credit card used to book? I booked for my sister and I am not joining them.
Hello! They asked for it in Seoul (2014), but they didn’t ask for it in Busan (2017). So I’m not sure if it’s just that they became lax with the rules or it’s in the location. 🙂
Howdy Jane! I’m not sure if this has been asked already. Is the pass useful while you travel from one attraction to another within Busan? Or is it only good for traveling from Seoul to Busan and vice versa?
Hello! The pass is only good for KTX. For a card that you can use when traveling within Busan AND within Seoul, you’ll need T-Money for that. 🙂
Hi Jane, mas advisable ba na gumamit ng Korail Pass kesa mag-purchase ng individual KTX ticket from Seoul to Busan and going back?
Hello! For me better yung KTX kasi mas mura s’ya pag ico-compute hehe. 🙂
hello i have a question, since i dont have a credit card, can i just go to the platform and purchase it?
Hi Rhemin! I think you can only purchase the Korail Pass online, but you can definitely purchase single journey KTX tickets at the train station itself. But feel free to ask around about it. This is just my understanding of the process. 🙂
Hi Jane, your blog post is really informative, however I would like to seek further clarification, since it’s 2018 and I believe the KORAIL website have been updated. FYI, I would be purchasing the KORAIL 5 Consecutive Day Saver Pass & travelling from Seoul station to Busan upon arrival in Incheon Airport.
On the website (http://www.letskorail.com/ebizbf/EbizBfKrPassAbout.do) they have mentioned the following:
Korail Pass is a rail pass for foreigners visiting Korea. Since it allows a pass holder to take almost all trains operated by KORAIL in a selected period of time, it is the most economical choice.
Available options:
KTX, KTX-Sancheon, ITX-Samaeul, ITX-CheongChun, Samaeul, Mugunghwa, Nuriro, O-train, V-train, S-train, DMZ-train, A-train, Westgold-train
* SRT, metro, temporary tourist trains are not included.
From the above I have a few questions, which I hope you would be able to assist me with:
Apart from using the KORAIL pass to exchange for KTX tickets, would I be able to use my KORAIL pass and exchange for train tickets such as Mugunghwa (which is under KORAIL) too? I would be travelling from Busan to neighbouring cities and would be required to take KORAIL trains –> not the KTX)
Since I would be purchasing a 5 consecutive day KORAIL pass, am I entitled to exchange tickets for any of the train lines under KORAIL for unlimited times, within the 5 days, with my pass?
Hope you would be able to get back to me soon as I would be travelling in a weeks time. Thank you!! 🙂
Hi Samantha! I believe you can use it unlimited times in a day since there are also 1 day passes. 🙂 I hope you’ll have an awesome trip!
Hi Jane, I checked the Korail website and the trains from Busan to Seoul seem quite frequent! Why did you have to wait for so long to go back to Seoul? Was it because all the trains were full? Would it be possible to go to the station early to “reserve” a ticket for departure at a later timing so we don’t have to hang around in the station for so long? Thanks!
Hi Alyssa! Yes, the trains were full, and if I remember correctly it was a Sunday night, too. You can definitely do that, though, but then again you’d end up dropping twice at the terminal. I’m not sure if it’s possible since I haven’t tried it out. 🙂
Can i know 3day pass use it as a return ticket? because i stay for 2 night in Busan
I suggest buying the 2-day select pass if you’ll be staying for 2 nights in Busan. 🙂
Hi Janey, thank you for your blog. It is really helpful.
I would like to check with you, what is the difference between the Korail pass and the Korail train tickets? If I’m staying in Busan for 5 days before going back to Seoul, what should I buy?
Thank you.
Alice
Hi,
The Korail train tickets can only be used once. The Korail pass can be used multiple times and can be exchanged for a Korail train ticket. I suggest buying a 2 Day Select Pass because you won’t be using it on consecutive days. 🙂 You can find more info here: http://www.letskorail.com/ebizbf/EbizBfKrPassAbout.do
Hi Janey, your blog is very informative. Would like to ask you, do you leave your luggages in Seoul before traveling to Busan? If yes, where did you keep them in Seoul? I’m traveling in 2 and have 2 large luggage bag. I plan to go directly to Busan upon arriving in Incheon airport. I guess it will be inconvenient to bring along to ride the KTX train.
Hi Gie! We actually left our luggage at our Seoul hostel. Our host was kind enough to store it for us while we were away. However, there are tons of luggage storage services around Seoul and there’s even one at the airport. You can try out this luggage storage service. 🙂
hi Jane 🙂 i have a question. we already bought our Korail Pass… was wondering if we can reserve our seats online? i tried a couple of times but was unsuccessful. will appreciate your help.
Will be staying in Busan for 6 days. 3 adults po kami and 1 child. Should we get the 2 day flexi (savers)? and does it mean that 2 day flexi that cost 111,000 won is roundtrip ticket na po from seoul-busan & busan-seoul?
The KR pass is not yet the ticket, but you can present it in exchange for a ticket. And yes, you can use it on both times.
I’m planning to purchase 4 days flexible. can i immediately reserve tickets in advance for future dates prior to exchanging the voucher to korea rail pass? if i do so, i wont have to depend on train available at the ticket booth right?
Hi! I don’t think you can do that if you’re using a rail pass, but I think you can purchase regular tickets in advanced.