The Seoul Metropolitan Subway is huge, clean, cheap, and almost entirely signed in English. Once you understand line colors and tapping, it's the fastest way around the city. Here's everything you actually need.
- 1
Read the line by its color and number
Each line has a number and a signature color shown on every sign, map, and train. You navigate by 'transfer from the orange Line 3 to the green Line 2' — you never need to read Korean station names to do it.
- 2
Use Naver Map or KakaoMap for directions
Google Maps can't route transit inside Korea. Naver Map and KakaoMap both give exact platforms, the fastest car to board for your exit, and live departure times in English.
How to set up Naver Map → - 3
Tap in, ride, tap out
Tap your T-money at the gate to enter and again to exit. Fares are distance-based from a low base, so a typical ride is cheap. Transfers between subway lines are free when you stay inside the gates.
- 4
Mind the last train
Most lines stop running around midnight. After that it's buses or a taxi via Kakao T. Check the last-train time in your map app if you're out late.
How to take a taxi with Kakao T →
Common questions
Which way do I need to know to pick the right platform?+
Is there reserved seating?+
Can I eat or drink on the train?+
Sources & official links
- Seoul Metro (English) ↗checked 2026-06-01
- Korea Tourism Organization ↗checked 2026-06-01
Fares, schedules, and app details change. Always confirm on the official site before you rely on anything time- or money-critical.