Hello, travelers!
If you're planning to use public transportation in Seoul or the greater metropolitan area, the T-money transit card is an essential item you should know about.
Based on my personal experience purchasing and using it, I’ll walk you through where to buy it, how to recharge it, and how to use it efficiently. π
π What is T-money?
T-money is a prepaid transportation card that works on most subways, buses, and taxis in Seoul and nearby regions.
π It can also be used at some convenience stores, vending machines, and even cafes!
Where you can use T-money:
- Subways (Seoul, Gyeonggi, Incheon – all lines)
- City buses, express buses, local village buses
- Taxis (with T-money readers)
- Airport limousine buses
- Convenience stores, select cafes and restaurants
π Where to Buy T-money
I bought mine at a convenience store inside Incheon Airport. You can easily find it at the following places:
| Location | Details |
|---|---|
| Convenience Stores | CU, GS25, 7-Eleven (available nationwide) |
| Subway Stations | Ticket vending machines, station service desks |
| Airports | Incheon, Gimpo – near arrival gates |
| Online | Gmarket, Coupang, Naver Shopping (some limited editions) |
π° Card Price: KRW 2,500 ~ 4,000 (top-up not included)
π³ How to Recharge
You must top up the card before using it – it’s prepaid!
Where to recharge:
- Subway station kiosks (cash only)
- Convenience stores (ask the cashier – cash or card)
- Apps (T-money Pay, Toss, etc.)
TIP: Subway kiosks offer English options – takes less than a minute!
π How to Use T-money
- Tap the card on the reader when boarding and exiting
- Transfers within 30 minutes apply discounted fares
- Check travel history via T-money app or website
TIP: You save money by transferring between subways and buses!
π² Mobile T-money is also available!
You can use Mobile T-money if you have an Android phone with NFC.
- Install the app and register a card
- Top-up via phone and simply tap your phone to pay
π No need to carry a card – super convenient!
π§Ύ Review & Pro Tips
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Accessibility (Purchase/Recharge) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of Use | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Transfer Discounts | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Overall Satisfaction | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Things to Note:
- Refunds require a KRW 500 processing fee
- Korea Tour Card (for foreigners) includes special tourist benefits
- Card may be deactivated after long periods of non-use
✨ Final Thoughts
If you plan to travel around Seoul or the metro area, T-money is a must-have item.
It’s super convenient and helps you save on fares through transfer discounts. Highly recommended for anyone using public transport in Korea!
Got questions or want to share your experience? Leave a comment below π
