Do I have to tap out of the subway?

Yes. Fares are calculated by distance, so you must tap both when entering and leaving.

Does the Seoul subway run 24 hours?

No. Trains stop for a few hours overnight. Check the last train time in Naver Map or KakaoMap, and use a taxi (Kakao T) or a night bus after that.

Can I use Google Maps for the subway?

It shows some transit routes, but walking directions and timings are limited in Korea. Naver Map or KakaoMap is more accurate; both have English modes.

How to Use the Seoul Subway and T-money Card: A First-Timer's Guide

Updated: 2026-09-20

Seoul's subway is clean, frequent and has English signs and announcements, so it is the easiest way to get around. All you need is a transport card and a few basic rules.

1. Get a transport card

A T-money card works on subways, city buses and many taxis. It is sold at convenience stores (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven and others), airport shops and some station machines. You pay for the card itself and then load cash onto it. Top-ups are available at convenience stores and station machines.

Tourist passes such as Seoul's Climate Card (unlimited rides for a set number of days) exist. They pay off if you ride 4 or more times a day. Check current prices and availability on the official site.

2. Read the subway map

Each line has a number and a color, and every station has a number too. Use the station number to make sure you are heading the right way. The direction is shown by the last station on the line. Exits are also numbered, so search for a place with its exit number in your map app.

3. Tap in, tap out, and transfer

Fares depend on distance, so tap your card on the reader when you enter and again when you exit. Forgetting to tap out can cause an extra charge on your next trip. On buses, tap when you board and again when you get off. Transfers between subway and bus are discounted when you tap correctly and change within the allowed time.

4. Etiquette and timing

Priority seats are for older, pregnant or disabled passengers, and pink seats are reserved for pregnant women. Keep phone calls short and quiet. Most lines stop running around midnight to 1 a.m., so check the last train in your map app before a late dinner.

FAQ

Do I have to tap out of the subway?: Yes. Fares are calculated by distance, so you must tap both when entering and leaving.
Does the Seoul subway run 24 hours?: No. Trains stop for a few hours overnight. Check the last train time in Naver Map or KakaoMap, and use a taxi (Kakao T) or a night bus after that.
Can I use Google Maps for the subway?: It shows some transit routes, but walking directions and timings are limited in Korea. Naver Map or KakaoMap is more accurate; both have English modes.

Prices, hours and rules change. Please confirm on official sites before you go.