Unlocking Seoul With the T-Money Card
Visiting Seoul for the first time? Good news. The capital's incredible sights are just a tap away with the T-money card.
This handy, rechargeable card acts as your key to the city's amazing public transportation system, letting you use subways, buses, and even taxis with ease.
Forget fumbling for change or buying multiple tickets - the T-money card simplifies travel for you, allowing you to explore Seoul like an expert.
The card is found at most convenience stores for a small deposit, but you can also snag it online before your trip, and best of all, topping up your card is a piece of cake, so you'll never be stranded struggling to look for a ride.
Where to buy the T-money Card?
You can pick up a basic T-money card for about SGD 3 at any convenience store like CU, GS25, Ministop, or 7-Eleven.
How to reload the T-money Card?
You can recharge your T-money Card by three ways in Seoul:
At Subway & Train Stations: Use a ticket vending machine that you will find located inside all the subway and train stations. Look for ticket vending machines (with language options). Find the T-money logo button, tap "Reload Transit Card," place your card on the reader, choose your top-up amount, pay with cash, and confirm your balance. Easy!
T-money Stands: Spot these near bus stops and subway stations, usually next to exits. Top-up directly with the staff.
At convenience stores: This is the easiest option. Head to any convenience store and simply hand your card to the cashier, tell them your desired top-up amount, and pay. That's it!
Pro tip: Some student ID T-money cards can't be reloaded at convenience stores. If you are unsure about your card, head to a subway station for reloading.
Top-Up Info: Add funds in increments of ₩1,000, with a minimum of ₩1,000 and a maximum of ₩90,000 per top-up. Your total card balance can't exceed ₩500,000. Now, you're ready to explore Seoul like a local.
How to use T-money Card?
The most important tip is - Don't forget to tap. You need to tap your card when you enter and exit both buses and subway stations to pay your fare. Don't forget to score transfer discounts. You can save money by transferring between buses or subways within 30 minutes (up to 1 hour between 9pm and 7am the next day), but there are a few catches:
You only get a discount up to four times a day.
You won't get a discount if you transfer to the same bus number or re-enter the same subway station you just exited, even within 30 minutes.
Bus: Hold your T-money card against the sensor until it beeps. The screen will display the fare charged and your remaining balance. Remember to tap again when you exit the bus to get a transfer discount (you can enjoy up to 4 transfers a day).
This helps calculate your total journey and apply savings. Don't worry if you don't hear a beep. If your card doesn't register the first time, wait a couple of seconds and try again. If it still doesn't work, the bus driver can usually assist you.
Make sure you tap your card again and you hear a beep. If you don’t, you will be charged extra for the distance travelled.
Subway: Upon entering the station, simply tap your T-money card on the sensor until it beeps. The screen will display the fare deducted and your remaining balance.
If you're transferring within the designated time limit, you won't be charged. While exiting the station, tap your card on the sensor again to exit the gate.
The screen will display your remaining balance. If you encounter any issues, don't hesitate to press the red "help" button for assistance from station staff.
Taxi: While not all taxis accept T-money, keep an eye out for those displaying the logo in between the driver's seat and the front passenger's seat. If you see it, let the driver know you'd like to pay with your card.
Make sure your T-money balance covers the entire fare beforehand. Once you reach your destination, simply tap your card on the sensor in the taxi (usually near a grey box). The screen above the sensor will confirm your remaining balance, completing the contactless payment.
What are special T-money Cards & Partnerships?
Special Edition T-money Cards: You can score a cuter version of the T-money card, as well.
A special edition T-money card featuring Kakao Friends, BT21, or other popular characters is also available, although these cards might cost slightly more.
You can even go to Myeongdong and Hongdae's underground shopping centres for T-money cards featuring your favourite K-pop idols and celebrities!
Discover Seoul Pass: Unveiling Seoul's hidden gems and cultural experiences is a cakewalk with the Discover Seoul Pass!
This handy pass unlocks free entry to over 50 top attractions, plus exclusive discounts at 150+ locations throughout the city. Plan your own itinerary and explore Seoul at your own pace - all for a fantastic value.
But wait, there's more. The Discover Seoul Pass doubles as a transportation card, letting you seamlessly navigate Seoul's buses and subways. Choose between 24, 48, or 72-hour passes to perfectly match your trip and discover Seoul like a pro.
Unlimited Data SIM + T-money Card:
Enhance your connectivity while exploring South Korea with a local SIM card. This 2-in-1 Unlimited Data SIM and T-money Card combo offer a high-speed and stable 4G/LTE network experience.
You can receive incoming calls and text messages without charges and stay connected on social messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, KakaoTalk, and WeChat. The card doubles as a T-money transportation card as well.
How to Refund Your T-money Card?
You must remember that not all locations offer refunds, so check before you buy a card with the intention of getting your money back.
The card itself and a 500 won service fee are non-refundable.
If you have a plain T-money card (not a special edition card), you can get a partial refund for the remaining balance, but only in increments of 10,000 won and only for amounts between 10,000 won and 50,000 won.
Pro yip: To avoid any refund hassles, only top up your T-money card with the amount you expect to use (up to a maximum of 50,000 won).
Other Essentials On Your Seoul Holiday
AREX Incheon Airport Express Train
The Airport Railroad (AREX) Express Train stands as the swiftest and most convenient means of travel between Incheon International Airport and downtown Seoul. Known for its efficiency, AREX guarantees a seamless journey in under an hour.
Discover Seoul Pass
Unlock the best of Seoul with Discover Seoul Pass! Get free access to 70 top attractions compared to individual tickets.
Whether you choose a 48- 72- or 120-Hour Pass, the city is yours to explore. Scale N Seoul Tower, experience the thrills at Lotte World, venture at the famous Nami Island, cruise the Han River, and much more.
Your pass includes a handy guide to plan your adventure seamlessly. Grab your pass and dive into the heart of Seoul.
Incheon International Airport Transfer to/from Downtown Seoul
Experience seamless and convenient travel between Incheon International Airport (ICN) and downtown Seoul.
Book this reliable airport transfer service and travel in the comfort of a private car. Whether you're arriving or departing, your professional driver will take you to your destination safely and on time. Simply sit back, relax, and focus on enjoying your time in Seoul from the moment you arrive.
Tap, Ride, Shop, Explore
Forget constant confusion and fumbling with currencies while travelling. The T-money card is your key to unlocking Seoul's efficient transportation network, transforming commutes into stress-free fun.
From bustling subways to iconic landmarks, explore the city with confidence, knowing you have a reliable travel companion by your side. With the T-money card in your pocket, Seoul's vibrant culture and hidden gems await - all just a tap away.
Commonly Asked Questions
Can you use a T-money card in Seoul?
Yes, you can use a T-money card in Seoul. It's a widely accepted way to pay for public transportation and even some small purchases.
How much is the T-money card in Korea?
The T-money card itself costs ₩4,000 (or SGD 4) and is not refundable.
What is the difference between T-money and Korea Tour Card?
T-money is a general transportation card usable throughout Korea, while the Korea Tour Card is a type of T-money specifically for tourists, often offering discounts on attractions and purchases.
Can I get a T-money card at Incheon Airport?
Yes, you can buy a T-money card at Incheon Airport, either at a convenience store or a ticket machine near the entrance to the subway station. Or you could always purchase your card online before your trip.