Many tourists are afraid to take the bus in Korea. They think it is complicated and stick to the subway. However, the Seoul Bus Guide is the key to becoming a true local traveler.
If you only take the subway, you will only see dark tunnels. If you take the bus, you can enjoy the beautiful city view for $1.
Quick Table of Contents
- Editor’s Pick: The Magic of Free Transfer
- Step 1: Best Bus Apps
- Step 2: Where is the Bus Stop? (Median Lane)
- Step 3: Bus Colors Meaning
- Important Rules (No Coffee!)
Editor’s Pick: The Magic of Free Transfer 🔄
As a local, the #1 reason I recommend reading this Seoul Bus Guide is the “Integrated Transfer System.”
In Seoul, the subway and bus are not separate systems. They are connected.
- Free Transfer: If you transfer from a subway to a bus (or bus to bus) within 30 minutes, the ride is mostly FREE.
- How to use: You must use the same T-money card. Just tap it when you get off the subway, and tap it again when you get on the bus.
- Limit: You can transfer up to 4 times.
💡 Expert Tip: Don’t walk 20 minutes from the subway station to your hotel. Check your map app! There is likely a green bus that will take you right to the hotel door for free (transfer).
⚠️ Important: Don’t Just Stand There! 👋
Unlike the subway, Korean buses do not stop automatically at every station if no one is getting off.
In Korea, if you just stand still at the bus stop looking at your phone, the driver assumes you are waiting for a different bus and will zoom past you.
💡 Survival Tip: A crucial rule of the Seoul Bus Guide is body language. When you see your bus approaching, step forward to the curb and wave your hand. You must show your intent: “Hey! I am getting on!”
Step 1: Download These Apps (Crucial!)
Although bus stops have digital screens showing arrival times, they are mostly in Korean. To know exactly when the bus arrives in English, you need an app.
1. Naver Map
The “Google Maps” of Korea. Best for finding routes and walking directions to the stop.
⬇️ Download Naver Map
📱 Android Download
🍎 Apple iOS Download
2. KakaoBus
A specialized app just for buses. It tells you if the coming bus is crowded or empty.
⬇️ Download KakaoBus
📱 Android Download
🍎 Apple iOS Download
Step 2: Where is the Bus Stop? (Watch Out!)
This is the most confusing part for first-time visitors. “Why is the bus stop in the middle of the road?”
Median Bus Lanes (Central Lane)
For major roads in Seoul, Blue Buses usually stop at islands located in the center of the street, not on the sidewalk.
- If you see a bus lane in the middle of the road, do not wait on the sidewalk.
- Look for a crosswalk and walk to the station island in the center.
- Green Buses (smaller buses) usually stop at regular curbside stops on the sidewalk.
Step 3: Decoding Bus Colors
Here is a quick breakdown for your Seoul Bus Guide reference:
- 🔵 Blue Bus: Main lines. They connect distant districts and use the Median Bus Lanes. Speed is fast.
- 🟢 Green Bus: Branch lines. They connect subway stations to residential areas. They stop frequently.
- 🔴 Red Bus: Rapid lines. These go outside Seoul to satellite cities. More expensive.
- 🟡 Yellow Bus: Circulation lines. Great for tourists (e.g., Namsan Tower loop).
Step 4: Important Rules ☕
To master this Seoul Bus Guide, remember these three golden rules:
- Front In, Back Out: Always board at the front and exit at the back.
- Tap Twice: You MUST tap your card when you get off. If you forget, you cannot get the free transfer discount next time.
- NO Coffee Allowed: You cannot board with a takeout cup (disposable cup). The driver will stop you. Please finish your drink or put it in a bag before boarding.
We hope this Seoul Bus Guide helps you navigate the city safely. Riding the bus is the best way to feel the vibe of Seoul. Don’t be shy, tap your card, and enjoy the ride!
Read Next 📖
You mastered the bus! Now check out other transport options in Korea.