How to Use KTX and Express Buses in Korea - 한국에서 KTX 및 고속버스 이용 방법

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✅ Introduction

Traveling around Korea is extremely easy thanks to the KTX high-speed train and long-distance Express Bus networks. Whether you're going from Seoul to Busan or exploring smaller cities, these two transportation options are fast, cheap, and convenient.

한국은 KTX 고속철도와 전국 고속버스 덕분에 도시 간 이동이 매우 편리합니다. 서울–부산은 2시간대, 강릉·전주·대구 등도 빠르게 이동할 수 있어 여행자에게 최고의 교통수단입니다.

This guide explains how to buy tickets, how much they cost, and what to expect.


✅ Using KTX (Korea Train Express)

➖ 1. What is KTX?

KTX is Korea’s high-speed train, reaching up to 300 km/h.

It’s the fastest way to travel long distances.

Popular Routes

  • Seoul → Busan (2.5 hrs)
  • Seoul → Daegu (1.5 hrs)
  • Seoul → Gwangju (2.5 hrs)
  • Seoul → Pyeongtaek / Daejeon / Mokpo

KTX 기차


➖ 2. How to Buy KTX Tickets

You can buy tickets through:

  • Korail Website
  • Korail App
  • Ticket machines at all major stations
  • Ticket counters (English available)

Payment

  • Cards accepted
  • Passports required for certain discounts


➖ 3. KTX Ticket Prices

(Approximate)

Route

Price (KRW)

Travel Time

Seoul → Busan 

60,000–70,000 

2.5 hrs

Seoul → Daegu 

35,000–45,000 

1.5 hrs

Seoul → Gwangju 

45,000–55,000 

2.5 hrs


➖ 4. What to Expect on KTX

  • Assigned seats
  • Luggage racks & overhead storage
  • Quiet, clean cabins
  • Stable Wi-Fi on most routes
  • Food carts sometimes available


✅ Using Express Buses (고속버스)

➖ 1. Types of Express Buses

  • Standard Bus – Cheapest
  • Premium / First-Class – Wider seats
  • Double Deckers – Long-distance routes
  • Night Buses – Perfect for late travel

고속버스 터미널


➖ 2. Where to Board

Major terminals include:

  • Seoul Express Bus Terminal
  • Dong Seoul Terminal
  • Busan Seobu Terminal
  • Daejeon Terminal


➖ 3. Express Bus Prices

(Approximate)

Route

Price (KRW)

Travel Time

Seoul → Busan 

25,000–40,000 

5 hrs

Seoul → Gangneung

13,000–20,000

2 hrs

Seoul → Jeonju 

12,000–18,000

2.5 hrs


➖ 4. How to Buy Bus Tickets

  • Kobus.co.kr
  • Bustago.kr
  • Terminal ticket machines
  • On-site counters


✅ Useful Tips for Using KTX & Buses

✔ Reserve KTX early on weekends

Seats sell out quickly.

✔ Download Korail & Kobus apps

They support English and make last-minute travel easy.

✔ Arrive 20–30 minutes early

Big stations can be confusing for first-timers.

✔ Travel light if possible

Bus luggage space is more limited than KTX.

✔ Keep your ticket QR code ready

Staff may check before boarding.


✅ Conclusion 

Korea’s transportation system is fast, easy, and traveler-friendly.

Whether you ride the KTX or take a scenic express bus, you can explore the entire country smoothly and comfortably.

한국의 철도와 고속버스는 빠르고 친절하며 여행자에게 매우 편리합니다. KTX의 속도 또는 고속버스의 편안함을 통해 전국 어디든 부담 없이 이동할 수 있습니다.