Wondering how to get from Seoul to Busan by KTX train? Here's everything you need to know about my favorite way to travel between South Korea's 2 top cities: you don't have to waste timing waiting at the airport and it's usually quicker than driving!
There are several ways to go to Busan from Seoul. My favorite way is by train from Seoul Station to Busan Station (close to downtown Busan.)
Depending on your budget, there are several choices for the train journey:
- KTX: This is the fastest train to Busan- travelling at speeds up to 300 km/h, the journey takes about 2h 15 minutes- 3 hours. There are 69 scheduled daily KTX departures.
- ITX: has newer trains
- Mugunghwa: slowest, taking up to 5 hours 50 minutes. They often run on different tracks to the KTX
Driving takes about 4-5 hours vs a 1 hour flight time (don't forget to factor in the time you need to get to the airport!) You can also take an (approximately) 4 hour express bus, which has reclining seats and brings you through the Korean countryside- the bus departures start from 1 am and go up to almost midnight.
Departure: Seoul Station
If you're travelling to Seoul Station by taxi or car, note that you get dropped in the "middle of the road." (There are different lanes for buses and taxis- the lane for taxis is separated from Busan Station by some of the other lanes, so it is quite awkward carrying your luggage over.
Unlike at the airport, there are no trolleys next to the taxi ranks, so don't bring too much luggage if you want to travel comfortably!) There are also steps leading up to the train carriage.
Arrival: Busan Station
It can be hard to find the taxi stand of Busan Station (it's at Level 1, Exit 1.) In addition, there is often a long queue so you may want to download one of Kakao Taxi or another ride-hailing app to book a cab instead. (Here's a list of the top apps you will need for travelling to Korea.)
Seats
The train set-up is very similar to an airline seat: there is an overhead light, place to hang your coat, socket to charge your phone, and magazine rack in front.
How to Buy Tickets
You can buy the tickets directly from KoRail or via a 3rd-party site.
I personally prefer the latter (but NOT NinjaRail as it's pricey) as KoRail can sometimes be a pain to work with. It took me SO MANY attempts to get the payment done! (Buying tickets for things online in Korea can be notoriously inaccessible to foreign tourists as you often need a local number or credit card.)
I have tried both the economy and first class seats- the difference in price can be very reasonable (about 10,000 Won.)
Tip: a KoRail Pass can help you save money if you're making several journeys.
KoRail
KoRail tickets can usually be purchased starting from one month to 20 minutes before departure. However, KTX trains can book up very quickly, especially during summer and on the weekends. (You can also get tickets at the station but, as mentioned, it's a risk during high season/ if it's before a holiday.)
You'll need to follow these steps:
- On the Korail website, enter your travel details
- Choose the train you want
- Select your seat class (economy or first class (which has more leg room) and enter the passenger details
- Pay- this is usually the tricky step
- After payment, you’ll be issued an e-ticket which you usually need to print out
Expert Tips
- You cannot take the KTX directly from Incheon Airport. To get to Busan, you will need to take the AREX to Seoul station then transfer to the train. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Incheon to Busan or fly from Incheon to Busan.
- Do not expect the KTX journey to be a scenic train ride- there are sometimes barriers that block your view.
- Some trains allow you to change the direction of your seat, so that you can face the direction of travel! Amazing for people who get travel sickness, like me!
Any questions about taking the KTX train from Seoul to Busan? Let me know in the comments!
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