The simplest way to navigate the city of Seoul.
Hello Gems, it’s Geminii and welcome to ‘A GEMINII Guide to Seoul’! Over the course of this series, we’ll be helping you plan the perfect Seoul trip!
In this travel guide, we’ll go over everything to know about Seoul’s T-Money cards!
Planning your first trip to Seoul? Learn more about traveling to South Korea here!
What will we cover in the guide?
- What is a T-Money Card?
- Where can I buy a T-Money Card?
- How much will a T-Money Card cost?
- Where can I recharge my T-Money Card?
- Where can I use my T-Money Card?
- How do I use my T-Money Card on the Bus?
- How do I use my T-Money Card on the Subway?
- How do I use my T-Money Card in a Taxi?
- Can I get a refund on my T-Money Card?
- Should I get a T-Money Card?
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What is a T-Money Card?
T-money cards are small rechargeable cards that will work on almost any bus, subway, or taxi in Korea! These small cards will make your travel super convenient, and all it takes a single swipe!
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Where can I buy a T-Money Card?
We recommend buying a T-money card as soon as you arrive in Korea so that you can start using it right away!
You can purchase a T-money card at..
- Incheon International Airport
- Subway and train stations
- Convenience Stores
How much will a T-Money Card cost?
You’ll need to pay a base fee of ₩2,500 ( about 2 u.s dollars ) when you initially purchase your card, but after that each ride will actually be cheaper than using cash payments!
For example, an adult single journey ticket on the subway might cost around ₩1,350 using cash but it will cost ₩1,250 when using your prepaid T-money card.
Tip: When you first buy your T-Money card there is no actual credit on the card, so make sure you charge your card before you use it!
Where can I recharge my T-Money Card?
You’ll need to pay a base fee of ₩2,500 ( about 2 u.s dollars ) when you initially purchase your card, but after that each ride will actually be cheaper than using cash payments!
Where can I use my T-Money Card?
If you forget to refund your card like we did, don’t worry you can still use it elsewhere! The great thing about T-money cards is that they work as a replacement for credit cards or cash at many convenience stores, cosmetic stores, vending machines, and even cafes!
Convenience Stores
- 7-Eleven
- GS25
- CU
Cosmetic Stores
- Face Shop
- Innisfree
- Tonymoly
Restaurants & Cafes
- Starbucks
- McDonald’s
- Ediya Coffee
- Gong Cha Tea
- Paris Baguette
So if you are looking to buy a bottle of water or some snacks for your flight home, you can always use the remaining balance on your T-money card on your way to the airport!
How do I use my T-Money Card on the Bus?
To use your T-money card on the bus, simply tap your card on the card reader when you enter and leave the bus. The card reader will let you know the cost of the fare as well as your remaining balance!
Tip: Don’t forget to tap your card when you enter and when you exit because Seoul has special transfer discounts when you switch to another subway or bus within 30 minutes!
How do I use my T-Money Card on the Subway?
To use your T-money card on the subway, just tap your card on the card reader when you walk through the subway turnstile. The card reader will let you know the cost of the fare as well as your remaining balance!
Tip: Remember to check your card balance throughout your trip or at the end of each day so you can recharge it when needed!
How do I use my T-Money Card on the Taxi?
Not all Taxis will accept T-Money cards. It’s really important to look for the T-money symbol on the taxi before stepping inside. If you are unsure, check with the driver first by showing your T-money card!
Tip: Whenever you take a taxi make sure the driver has the meter on! If you are worried about communicating with a taxi driver, Seoul has International taxis that are great for Japanese or English speakers!
Can I get a refund on my T-Money Card?
When you’re ready to leave Seoul, you can return your card at any metro ticket office for a refund up to ₩20,000 on your remaining balance. So, no need to worry if you don’t use up all the money on your card during your trip!
Should I get a T-Money Card?
Yes! No matter what type of transportation you plan on using when you visit Seoul, a T-Money card will make your commutes fast and easy!
Xo
Geminii
GEMINII 