When you first arrive in Korea, the first “key” you need to unlock the city is not a hotel key—it’s a T-money card. Whether you’re taking the subway in Seoul or a bus in Busan, this small card will be your best friend.
Warning: You CANNOT recharge T-money with credit cards at subway machines! Prepare CASH (KRW). Here is your essential guide to buying & charging (MRT/Subway).
1. What is a T-money Card?
It is a pre-paid rechargeable card used for all public transportation in Korea. But it’s more than just a transit pass; you can also use it at convenience stores, certain cafes, and even in taxis.
2. Where to Buy: Convenience Stores vs. Subway Stations
Convenience Stores (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven, Emart24): Walk to the counter and ask for a “T-money card, please.”
- The card price (usually 2,500 – 5,000 KRW) is for the empty card only. You must add a balance to use it.
- The Benefit: You can choose from various cute designs, including Kakao Friends or K-pop idols.
Subway Stations: Look for the “Ticket Vending and Card Reload” machines. They support English, Chinese, and Japanese.
3. How to Top-up (Step-by-Step)
Crucial Rule: You can only top up your T-money card using CASH (Korean Won). Credit cards are generally not accepted for topping up at machines or convenience stores.
At a Subway Machine:
- Select your preferred language on the screen.
- Place your T-money card on the “Reload bar” (the sensor pad).
- Select the “Reloading the transit card” button.
- Choose the amount you want to add (from 1,000 KRW).
- Insert the cash into the machine.
- Wait until the screen says the top-up is complete before removing your card.
At a Convenience Store:
- Hand your card and the cash to the staff and say, “Choong-jeon (Charge), please.”
4. Beyond Subways: Trains, Buses, and Taxis
Many travelers ask, “Can I use T-money for KTX or Intercity buses?” The answer is Yes, but there’s a catch!
- KTX & Trains: You cannot just tap at the gate. You must use your T-money card as a payment method at the ticket counter to buy your ticket.
- Intercity Buses: You can pay at the terminal counter or, if seats are available, tap your card on the bus’s internal reader.
- Taxis: Almost all taxis in Korea accept T-money. Just tap it on the terminal when you reach your destination.
5. The Magic of “Transfer” (Deep K-Insight!)
Korea has an amazing transfer discount system. If you tap your card when getting off a bus and transfer to the subway (or another bus) within 30 minutes, your next ride is almost free!
- Pro Tip: You must tap your card on the reader when you get off the bus to get this discount.
6. Cashing Out Before You Leave
If you have a remaining balance at the end of your trip, you can get a refund (minus a small service fee) at convenience stores or service desks in the airport.
Getting your T-money card is just the first step! In the next post, I’ll share the “Must-have Apps” that will make your Korean life even easier.
Enjoy your journey with T-money! If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below. Safe travels!