South Korea — Living: Transportation

Why this matters

Reliable transportation is crucial for daily life, work, and social activities, and understanding the options in South Korea is essential for relocating individuals.

Key facts

• The adult card base fare is KRW 1,550 (up from KRW 1,400) from 28 June 2025; a cash single ride costs KRW 1,650.
• A surcharge of KRW 100 is added per 5 km beyond the 10 km base range.
• The first card ride before 6:30 AM gets a 20% early-morning discount (KRW 1,240 on the new fare).
• Teen card fare is KRW 900 and child card fare KRW 550.
• Cash single-ride tickets cost KRW 100 more than transit card fares; a 15-minute turnstile re-entry applies on specific sections including Lines 2, 5, 8 and 9.

Steps

1. Obtaining a Driver's License — Foreigners can obtain a South Korean driver's license, but the process is complex and may require significant time and paperwork. It is recommended to research the requirements thoroughly before proceeding.
2. Registering a Vehicle — To register a vehicle in South Korea, foreigners will need to provide a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and other documents. The process can be time-consuming and may require bureaucratic assistance.
3. Using Public Transportation — To navigate public transportation, it is essential to have a good understanding of the local language, as announcements and signs are predominantly in Korean. Additionally, some services may require a prepaid card or cash for fares.