π How to Book KTX Tickets in Korea (2025)
The KTX (Korea Train eXpress) is Korea's high-speed rail network connecting Seoul to Busan, Gyeongju, Gangneung, and other major cities in under 2β3 hours. It's fast, punctual, comfortable, and very affordable compared to flying. Here's how to book as a foreigner.
KTX vs SRT β What's the Difference?
- KTX β operated by Korail. Departs from Seoul Station and Yongsan Station. Covers most major routes including Busan, Mokpo, Gangneung.
- SRT β operated by SR. Departs from Suseo Station (μμμ, Line 3). Slightly cheaper than KTX on overlapping routes, slightly less convenient station location.
For most foreigners staying in central Seoul, KTX from Seoul Station is the easiest option.
Popular KTX Routes from Seoul
| Destination | Travel Time | Approx. Fare |
|---|---|---|
| Busan (λΆμ°) | ~2h 30min | β©59,800 |
| Gyeongju (κ²½μ£Ό) | ~2h 10min | β©52,700 |
| Daegu (λꡬ) | ~1h 40min | β©43,500 |
| Gangneung (κ°λ¦) | ~2h | β©27,600 |
| Jeonju (μ μ£Ό) | ~1h 50min | β©34,800 |
| Gwangju (κ΄μ£Ό) | ~2h 30min | β©46,800 |
How to Book KTX Tickets
β Korail English Website
Go to letskorail.com β click the English flag in the top right β search your route β pay by foreign credit/debit card. You'll receive a booking confirmation by email. Show the QR code at the station or collect your ticket from a machine.
β‘ Korail App (μ½λ μΌν‘)
Download the Korail Talk app (available on iOS and Android). The app has an English mode. Create an account with your email, search routes, and pay by card. You can use the mobile ticket directly without printing anything.
β’ Ticket Machine at the Station
All major KTX stations have ticket vending machines with an English option. Select English β choose your route β pay by card or cash. Best for same-day travel or if you don't want to create an account online.
β£ Ticket Counter at Seoul Station
The staffed ticket counter at Seoul Station can help in basic English. Useful if you have a complex itinerary or need to make changes to an existing booking.
Step-by-Step: Booking on letskorail.com
-
Go to letskorail.com and select English Click the language selector in the top right corner and choose English.
-
Click "Ticket Reservation" Enter your departure station (Seoul), destination, date, and number of passengers. Click Search.
-
Select your train and seat Choose a departure time. You can select a specific seat on the seat map β window seats on the right side going to Busan get mountain views.
-
Create an account or book as guest You can book as a non-member with just your email. Enter passenger details and proceed to payment.
-
Pay by foreign card Most major international Visa/Mastercard/Amex cards work. If your card is declined, try the ticket machine at the station instead.
-
Save your booking confirmation You'll receive a QR code by email. Show this at the gate or at a ticket machine to print your ticket.
π‘ Book in advance for holidays: Chuseok (μΆμ) and Seollal (μ€λ ) are the two biggest holiday travel periods in Korea. Tickets sell out weeks in advance. If you're traveling during these periods, book as early as possible β up to 1 month ahead.
At the Station
- Arrive at least 15β20 minutes before departure
- Find your platform on the departure board (screens show train numbers and platform numbers)
- Tap or scan your QR code at the gate β or insert your printed ticket
- KTX trains are very punctual β missing your train means rebooking at the counter
- There's a cafΓ© car (dining car) on most KTX trains with snacks and drinks
β οΈ Foreign card issues: Some foreign cards are declined on the Korail website due to Korean payment system restrictions. If this happens, use the ticket machine at the station (accepts most international cards), or use a Korean friend's account and pay them back in cash.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancel more than 1 day before: full refund
- Cancel same day before departure: small fee (10%)
- Cancel after departure: no refund
- Changes (date/time) can be made up until departure with a small fee
Book KTX Tickets Directly on SeoulTalk
SeoulTalk lets you book KTX and SRT tickets directly inside the app β in English, with foreign card support. No need to navigate the Korail website or deal with payment issues.
- Search routes and check real-time availability
- Book in English with your foreign credit or debit card
- Receive your mobile ticket directly in the app
- Ask the community for travel tips before you go