Transit cards: T-money and the Climate Card pass
Get a transit card before you ride Seoul's subway or buses. It is cheaper than single tickets and gives you transfer discounts.
T-money
T-money is a rechargeable transit card, like Japan's Suica or ICOCA. It works on the subway, buses, AREX all-stop trains and taxis, and at convenience stores.
Buy one at airport or city convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven, etc.) from around ₩3,000. There are plenty of cute designs that double as souvenirs.
Topping up
Hand your card and cash to the convenience store cashier and ask for a T-money top-up, or use a subway station machine. Top-ups are generally cash only, so keep some won handy.
For 3–4 days of getting around Seoul by subway, ₩20,000–30,000 per person is usually enough. My Trip Plan shows the total transport cost of your itinerary.
Why use a transit card
With a transit card the subway costs ₩1,550 for up to 10 km. Single-journey tickets cost more and require a ₩500 deposit (refunded after your trip).
Transfers between subway and bus within a set time only cost the extra distance. Remember to tap your card when you get off the bus too.
Climate Card tourist pass (unlimited)
| Pass | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 day | ₩5,000 |
| 2 days | ₩8,000 |
| 3 days | ₩10,000 |
| 5 days | ₩15,000 |
| 7 days | ₩20,000 |
This short-term pass gives unlimited rides on the subway and city buses within Seoul. The card itself costs an extra ₩3,000. Buy it at subway station machines or convenience stores.
It pays off if you ride the subway four or more times a day. Some routes are excluded, such as AREX to the airport, the Shinbundang Line and lines outside Seoul — check coverage before buying.
Which one?
For packed days visiting many places, the pass is better; for two or three relaxed stops a day, T-money is enough. If unsure, check a day's transport cost in My Trip Plan and compare it with the pass price.
Fares and times are estimates as of 2026-10 and may change. Check official sources for the latest information.
FAQ
Can I use my Suica card?
No. Japanese IC cards don't work on Korean transport; get a Korean transit card.
What happens to leftover balance?
You can get a refund at convenience stores or station counters (a fee may apply). Many people keep the card for their next trip.
More guides
- Incheon Airport to central SeoulThree ways from Incheon Airport into Seoul — AREX train, limousine bus and taxi — with times, fares and how to choose.
- How to ride the Seoul subwayTelling lines apart, transferring, how fares work, first and last trains, and etiquette — a beginner's guide to the Seoul subway.
- Taking taxis in Seoul and booking appsTypes of Seoul taxi, fares, the late-night surcharge, how to pay, and using the visitor-friendly k.ride app.
- Seoul palace guide: closing days, fees and free entry in hanbokClosing days and fees for Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Jongmyo and more, free entry in hanbok, the combination ticket, and Bukchon's visiting hours.