[Korea Travel] T-money Transportation Card Guide for Foreigners

When traveling in Korea, the T-money transportation card is an absolute must-have. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help foreign visitors use it easily and conveniently.


What is T-money

What is T-money?

  • T-money is Korea’s prepaid transportation card that can be used on subways, buses, taxis, some convenience stores, and even public bikes like “Ddareungi.”
  • Available for foreign travelers — you can purchase and use it without a Korean ID or phone number.

How to Recharge

Where to Buy and Recharge

  • Where to Buy:
    • Airports, subway station ticket machines or kiosks, and convenience stores (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven, etc.) for around ₩2,500–₩4,000.
  • How to Recharge:
    • Subway Machines: English interface available. Insert cash → tap the card → see balance and confirm recharge.
    • Convenience Stores: Hand the card and cash to the cashier, and they’ll recharge it for you.

How to use

How to Use

  • Subway/Bus:
    • Subway: Tap your card when entering and exiting the gates.
    • Bus: Tap your card when boarding at the front door and again when exiting at the back door. Transfer discounts will apply automatically.
  • Fare Savings:
    • Using T-money is about ₩100 cheaper per subway or bus ride compared to paying in cash.
  • Transfer Discounts:
    • Within 30 minutes (or 1 hour from 9 PM to 7 AM), you can transfer up to 4 times between buses and subways without extra cost.

Balance Check and Refund

  • Check Balance:
    • Displays on the screen when you tap at subway gates or bus terminals, or check at subway ticket machines.
  • Refund:
    • Remaining balance can be refunded at convenience stores or subway T-money service centers (₩500 fee).
    • The card is reusable, so you can recharge it for your next trip.

Alternative Card

Great Alternative for Foreigners: WOWPASS

  • WOWPASS Card: A prepaid card with T-money functionality, allowing both general payments and public transport use — designed for travelers.
  • Each balance is managed separately, and some tourist discount benefits are included.

Quick Travel Tip

Get a T-money card as soon as you arrive at the airport — it will make using the subway, bus, convenience stores, and even taxis in Korea much easier.

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