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| When visiting a convenience store, remember to get a transportation card along with your ramen |
Introduction: Getting Around Korea Made Easy
Dear readers, today I would like to briefly introduce the transportation card that is essential when using public transportation in Korea.
If you’re visiting Korea for the first time, one of the first things you’ll need to figure out is how to get around. Sure, you can always hop in a taxi right from the airport, and most taxis accept credit cards or cash in Korean won. But keep in mind that taxi fares in Korea have gone up quite a bit in recent years.
That’s why many travelers—and even locals—recommend using the subway or bus instead. Korea’s public transportation system is fast, affordable, and safe, making it one of the best ways to explore the country.
There’s just one catch: in many places, especially on buses, you can’t pay with cash. This is where the T-money card comes in. For both convenience and savings, it’s the go-to transportation card that every traveler should have in their pocket.
What Exactly Is a T-money Card?
T-money is a prepaid transportation card widely used across Korea. With one card, you can ride subways, buses, and even some taxis. You can also use it at convenience stores and a variety of other places.
Why travelers love T-money:
Super convenient: Recharge once and use it multiple times.
Works almost everywhere: From Seoul and the surrounding metropolitan area to other major cities across Korea.
Cheaper than cash: Enjoy discounted fares compared to paying in cash.
While many Koreans now use mobile versions of T-money on their smartphones, the physical card is the simplest choice for travelers. It’s easy to buy, recharge, and use—no apps required.
Where to Get a T-money Card
1. Convenience Stores
You’ll see the T-money logo at most convenience stores, and that’s where you can buy a card.
GS25
CU
7-Eleven
Emart24
C·Space
Storyway
2. Subway Stations
3. Street Vendors and Local Shops
T-money cards are also sold at street kiosks and small shops not only in Seoul but in many other regions, including Busan, Ulsan, Jeju, and parts of Gangwon, Gyeongbuk, and Jeolla.
4. Mobile Carrier Stores
SKT, KT, and LGU+ shops provide T-money-enabled SIM cards for those who prefer mobile versions.
5. Online
If you’d like to prepare in advance, you can also order a T-money card from the official T-money online shop.
How to Recharge Your T-money Card
Because T-money is prepaid, you’ll need to load money onto the card before using it. Fortunately, recharging is quick and easy.
1. With Cash
Available at convenience stores, subway stations, and ATMs with the T-money logo.
Recharge amount: KRW 1,000 to KRW 90,000 per transaction.
Maximum balance per card: KRW 500,000.
💡 Tip: At GS25 and CU stores, you can recharge with leftover change after a purchase—a handy way to use up coins!
2. Bank Account Transfer
Use ATMs at banks like Kookmin, Nonghyup, Shinhan, Hana, Jeju Bank, and more.
Some ATMs may only allow recharge for T-money cards issued by that bank.
3. Debit or Credit Card
Available with Woori Bank debit or credit cards at GS25 and Woori Bank ATMs.
Recharge amount: KRW 10,000 to KRW 50,000 per transaction, with a daily limit of KRW 150,000.
4. T-mileage Points
If you earn mileage points while using public transport, you can convert them into T-money balance.
Starting from 1,000 points, you can top up your card this way.
Helpful Tips for Using T-money
Discounted fares: If you buy a child or youth card, don’t forget to register your date of birth to get the discount. Otherwise, you’ll be charged the regular adult fare.
Nationwide use: Although most popular in Seoul and the surrounding areas, T-money also works in cities like Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, and Jeju.
Beyond transportation: You can even use your card for small purchases at convenience stores or to pay for some taxi rides.
Conclusion: One Little Card for a Smooth Journey
Korea’s public transportation is one of the most efficient and traveler-friendly systems in the world. And the T-money card is your key to making the most of it. With one card, you’ll save money, save time, and save yourself the stress of dealing with cash.
If you’re arriving at Incheon Airport, one of the first things you should do is grab a T-money card at a convenience store or subway station and load it with some credit. Once you have it, you’ll be ready to explore Seoul, the metropolitan area, and even other regions across Korea without a hitch.
Travel smart, travel light, and let T-money take you everywhere you need to go. Safe travels in Korea! Thank you once again for taking the time to read today.
