How to ride the Seoul subway

Seoul has many subway lines, but each has its own colour and number, and stations are signed in English. Once you know the basics, it is the easiest way to get around.

Lines have colours and numbers

Besides numbered Lines 1–9, there are AREX, the Suin-Bundang Line, the Shinbundang Line, the Gyeongui-Jungang Line and others. Each line has a colour: Line 2 is green, Line 3 orange and Line 4 sky blue, for example.

Every station also has a number made up of its line and a digit code — Myeongdong is 424. Even if you can't read the name, you can check the number.

Step by step

Tap your card at the gate, then check the platform signs for the direction (shown by the terminal station) and board. Tap again at the exit gate and the fare for your distance is deducted.

To transfer, follow the coloured line signs along platforms and corridors. Some transfers take 5–10 minutes on foot.

How fares work

With a transit card the base fare is ₩1,550 for up to 10 km, plus ₩100 for every additional 5 km. Most trips between sightseeing areas in Seoul cost ₩1,550–1,850.

My Trip Plan and the fare checker use this system to estimate each journey.

Watch for Line 9 express trains

Line 9 runs both local and express trains, and express trains only stop at major stations. They are handy for Gimpo Airport, Yeouido and Gangnam, but check your stop is served before boarding — look for "Express" on platform signs and train displays.

First and last trains

Trains start around 5:30 am. Last trains vary by line and direction but are around midnight. On a late night out, check the last train at the station or plan to take a taxi.

Etiquette

Priority seats at the ends of each car are for older and disabled passengers. Pink seats are reserved for pregnant women, and people generally leave them empty.

Avoid eating on board. With big suitcases, try to avoid rush hours (around 8 am and 6 pm on weekdays).

Fares and times are estimates as of 2026-10 and may change. Check official sources for the latest information.

Build a plan in My Trip Plan

FAQ

Are there signs in English?

Yes. Station signs and on-board announcements are in Korean and English, and major stations also show Japanese and Chinese.

Which map app should I use?

Google Maps directions are limited in Korea. Local apps such as NAVER Map or KakaoMap work better.