Getting there & getting around

How to take the KTX and SRT between Korean cities

4 min readUpdated 2026-06-01

Korea's high-speed trains make day-trips and multi-city itineraries easy — Seoul to Busan is roughly 2.5 hours. Two operators run the lines; here's how to pick, book, and board.

  1. 1

    Know KTX vs. SRT

    KTX (Korail) departs central Seoul Station; SRT departs from Suseo in the southeast of Seoul. Both are high-speed and similar in price and time — pick by which departure station is closer to you.

  2. 2

    Book in the app or online

    Use Korail's 'Korail Talk' app or site for KTX, and the SRT app/site for SRT. Both have English booking and e-tickets. Reserve ahead for weekends and holidays.

    Korail (KTX) booking
  3. 3

    Choose your seat class

    Standard class is comfortable and the usual choice; first class costs more for extra space. Reserved seats guarantee you a spot — worth it on busy routes.

    SRT booking
  4. 4

    Board with your e-ticket

    There are no airport-style gates — show your e-ticket if asked and find your car and seat number on the platform signs. Arrive 15–20 minutes early to locate your car.

Common questions

Can I use a Korea Rail Pass?+
The KR Pass covers Korail trains (including KTX) for tourists but not SRT. If you'll take several intercity trips, price the pass against individual tickets.
Do I need to print tickets?+
No. E-tickets in the apps are accepted; just keep your phone charged.

Sources & official links

Fares, schedules, and app details change. Always confirm on the official site before you rely on anything time- or money-critical.

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