What if I can't read Korean station names?

All major stations have English names on signs and in apps. Learn to recognize the Korean characters for your hotel/destination station - take a photo of the Korean text to show station staff if needed.

How late do trains run?

Last trains run around midnight (varies by line), first trains start around 5:30am. Check the Seoul Subway Map app for exact times on your specific line.

Can I use my T-money card for buses too?

Yes, same card works for buses, and you get a small transfer discount when switching between subway and bus within 30 minutes.

What if the station is crowded?

Stand to the right on escalators, let people exit trains first, and move to the center of cars. Rush hour can be intense but trains run every 2-4 minutes during peak times.

How to Navigate Seoul's Subway System for First-Time Visitors

Seoul's subway system uses a rechargeable T-money card that costs 2,500 won plus fare. Download the Citymapper or Seoul Subway Map apps, follow color-coded lines and numbered exits, and expect 15-20 minutes between major districts. Most signs have English translations.

Get a T-money card at the station. Buy a T-money card from ticket machines near station entrances. Card costs 2,500 won (refundable) plus whatever amount you load. Load 20,000-30,000 won to start. Machines have English options - press the British flag.
Download essential apps before you go. Install Citymapper (best for real-time directions) and Seoul Subway Map (works offline). Both show platform numbers, transfer instructions, and exit numbers in English.
Find your line and direction. Lines are color-coded and numbered (Line 1 is dark blue, Line 2 is green, etc.). Check the terminus station in your direction - signs show 'bound for [end station]' in Korean and English.
Follow platform signs to the right car. Platform signs show which car is best for your exit. Cars 1-3 are usually closest to exits 1-4, cars 5-8 for higher numbered exits. This saves significant walking time at big stations.
Navigate transfers efficiently. Major transfer stations like Gangnam and Hongik University have long corridors. Follow colored line signs on walls and floors. Transfer walking time can be 5-8 minutes at complex stations.
Use numbered exits strategically. Seoul stations have 8-12+ exits. Check your destination address for the closest exit number. Apps show this, but if in doubt, exits 1-2 are usually main/north exits, higher numbers go to different street corners.

What if I can't read Korean station names?: All major stations have English names on signs and in apps. Learn to recognize the Korean characters for your hotel/destination station - take a photo of the Korean text to show station staff if needed.
How late do trains run?: Last trains run around midnight (varies by line), first trains start around 5:30am. Check the Seoul Subway Map app for exact times on your specific line.
Can I use my T-money card for buses too?: Yes, same card works for buses, and you get a small transfer discount when switching between subway and bus within 30 minutes.
What if the station is crowded?: Stand to the right on escalators, let people exit trains first, and move to the center of cars. Rush hour can be intense but trains run every 2-4 minutes during peak times.