How to Check Bus Routes & Use Public Transportation in Korea
Apps for public transportation
When traveling in Korea, understanding the public transportation system can significantly enhance your experience. Whether you’re taking the subway, bus, or a taxi, knowing how to navigate these systems will save you time and help you get around more efficiently. In this guide, we’ll show you how to check bus routes in real-time, use the best apps for public transportation in Korea, and give you T-money card tips to make your travel seamless.
1. How to Check Bus Routes in Korea
Naver Maps: Best for Real-Time Bus Information
https://mkt.naver.com/navermapapp
- Key Features: Naver Maps is a popular app in Korea for checking real-time bus arrivals, subway schedules, and taxi information. It provides accurate bus route details, travel time, and bus stop locations.
- How to Use It: Enter your departure and destination points to get suggested bus routes. It also shows the real-time arrival of buses, so you can plan your journey accordingly.
KakaoMap: Real-Time Traffic and Bus Tracking
- Key Features: KakaoMap offers up-to-date public transportation information for buses, subways, and taxis in Korea. You can track the real-time position of buses, as well as get bus stop locations and the estimated arrival times.
- How to Use It: Type in your destination and KakaoMap will provide you with the best routes for buses, including real-time updates and current traffic conditions.
- How to Change KakaoMap Language to English
- Download KakaoMap on Chrome
First, make sure you have KakaoMap downloaded. - Click on the Menu Icon
On the top left corner of the home screen, click the three horizontal lines (☰) to open the menu. - Go to Settings
Scroll down and click on the Settings option. - Select App Settings
In the settings menu, select App Settings. - Choose English Language
Under the Language section, select English to change the language. - Restart the App
After selecting English, click Restart to apply the language change. - Reopen the App
The app will automatically restart, and the map will be displayed in English.
- Download KakaoMap on Chrome
BusTime: Live Bus Location App
https://topis.seoul.go.kr/eng/english.jsp
- Key Features: BusTime provides live updates for Seoul and surrounding areas buses. It is perfect for checking the real-time position of buses and expected arrival times.
- How to Use It: Enter the bus stop name, and it will show nearby buses along with their estimated arrival times.
2. Types of Buses in Korea
Understanding the different types of buses in Korea will help you choose the most suitable one for your trip:
- Blue Buses (General Buses): These buses operate on shorter routes or connect suburban areas. They are the most common and are used for general travel within the city.
- Red Buses (Express Buses): Red buses are fast, direct buses that link major areas of Seoul. They are ideal for long-distance travel across the city.
- Green Buses (Seat Buses): Green buses offer seats and are used for connecting long-distance routes or different neighborhoods.
- Circular Buses: If you’re a tourist, circular buses are great for sightseeing. They connect major landmarks and tourist destinations, allowing you to easily visit key attractions.
3. Must-Have Apps for Foreigners Navigating Public Transport in Korea
When it comes to getting around Korea, several apps are indispensable for foreigners. These apps provide real-time information, route planning, and more, ensuring you get where you need to go quickly and easily.
Naver Maps
- Main Features: Offers real-time traffic updates, bus and subway routes, walking directions, and more.
- Languages: Available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Japanese.
- Why It’s Useful: Naver Maps is highly recommended for navigating buses, subways, and finding real-time traffic conditions.
KakaoMap
- Main Features: Real-time traffic updates, bus and subway routes, and detailed map directions.
- Languages: Available in English.
- Why It’s Useful: KakaoMap allows you to track the real-time location of buses and subways and also offers taxi-hailing services.
T-money App
- Main Features: Recharge your T-money card and check transaction history. You can also track your balance for buses and subways.
- Languages: English available.
- Why It’s Useful: The T-money app allows you to easily manage your card and track your transportation usage without needing to visit a convenience store.
Kakao T
- Main Features: Call a taxi, track taxi fares, and book rides.
- Languages: English available.
- Why It’s Useful: Kakao T makes taxi bookings easier and also provides convenient payment options for foreigners.
Subway Korea
- Main Features: Offers subway routes, schedules, and transfer information.
- Languages: Available in English and Japanese.
- Why It’s Useful: Ideal for foreign visitors who are new to the Korean subway system, this app provides an intuitive guide with helpful information.
4. Helpful Tips for Using Public Transportation in Korea
T-money Card Discounts
- Subway/Bus Transfer Discount: The T-money card allows free transfers between the subway and bus within 30 minutes. This makes it easy to switch between different transportation modes without worrying about extra charges.
Foreign Tourist Discounts
- Many tourist attractions in Korea offer discounts for visitors who use a T-money card. Make sure to check if any of the places you plan to visit offer these deals.
How to Use Your T-money Card
- Boarding: Tap your T-money card at the entrance when you board the bus or subway.
- Exiting: Tap your card again when you exit to ensure the fare is deducted correctly.
- Tip: Always double-check that you’ve tapped in and out, especially when using the card for the first time. Forgetting can lead to incorrect fare charges.
Conclusion:
Simplify Your Travel with T-money and Public Transit Apps in Korea
Navigating public transportation in Korea becomes much easier with the T-money card and the help of real-time apps like Naver Maps and KakaoMap. These tools offer everything from bus schedules to real-time traffic updates, helping you plan your journey efficiently. Whether you’re riding a blue bus, an express red bus, or using the subway, having the right apps and knowledge will ensure a smooth, cost-effective travel experience in Korea.
By leveraging these apps and tips, you’ll enjoy a seamless and efficient travel experience, making it easier to explore Korea‘s vibrant cities and tourist attractions.
