Explore South Korea like a local with your own T-money card. Consider getting this essential travel pass that comes with T-Money functions!
In a nutshell
- What is T-Money? T-Money is a prepaid transportation card in South Korea that can be used to pay for subway, bus, and taxi fares. It can also be used in select stores like Starbucks, GS25, and Dunkin’ Donuts.
- How much is a T-Money card? T-Money cards cost around $6, but if you want to save money, you can book a travel SIM card with FREE T-Money card here!
- What are alternative transportation cards in Korea? Aside from T-Money, you can also consider buying a Namane Card, Discover Seoul Pass, or WOWPASS Card.
- Where can I buy and pick up a T-Money card in Korea? After booking, you can easily redeem your T-Money card at Incheon International Airport or Gimpo Airport. Check the hours and availability here.
- How do I top up? You can add money to your T-Money card at a convenience store or via a top-up machine located in subway stations and Incheon International Airport.
- Why get a T-Money card for your Korea trip? So you can travel like a local! Plus, T-Money cards will give you a discount whenever you take the subway and bus. Here’s a review from one who purchased T-Money card: “Use it for longer stays in Seoul because you can load up the value when it goes low. it’s a must-have in Seoul, and is used in public transportation. you may also use if to pay for purchases in many stores.” Find more reviews for T-Money in Korea here!
Featured Deal
T-Money Card in South Korea
T-Money is a prepaid transportation card in South Korea that you can use to pay for bus, subway, and taxi fares. Just like the Octopus Card in Hong Kong, EasyCard in Taiwan, or Oyster Card in London, it will save you from having to purchase single-trip tickets each time you ride the train.
T-Money card users also benefit from the fare discount of ₩100 or $0.01 for every ride. (Those who don’t have T-Money in Korea pay the full regular fare when using cash.) The discount for each ride isn’t much. However, towards the end of my first trip in Korea, I was able to save ₩3,900, which was enough to buy me a gimbab or an Iced Americano.
Moreover, with a T-Money card, you also get free transfers between buses and subway trains, provided that you hop in and out of the next leg within 30 minutes. (Beyond this time, you’ll be charged for multiple trips.)
Another fun fact: aside from transportation, T-Money in Korea can also be used to pay for your purchase in select convenience stores (CVS), vendo machines, Starbucks, and Dunkin’ Donuts. This means that you don’t have to struggle figuring out your Korean bills and coins, especially if you plan to frequent convenient stores like CU, GS25, Emart24, and 7-Eleven.
Book a T-Money Card for South Korea
To get your hands on a T-Money card, you can book easily online. Here are your options:
1. WOWPASS Card (T-Money Card + Debit Card)
Our first T-Money card recommendation is the WOWPASS Card. With WOWPASS, not only you get all the benefits of using T-Money, but you also enjoy automated foreign currency exchange service. Upon arrival in South Korea, you can easily convert your foreign cash via the WOWPASS kiosk (e.g. USD, PHP, SGD, HKD, EUR, AUD, etc.) and load the amount to your WOWPASS Card. You can then use your WOWPASS card to pay for your purchases at restaurants, shops, and virtually all stores that accept card payments.
- PRICE: Book here for only $3.8 (vs. regular price of $4.6)
- INCLUSIONS: WOWPASS Card with T-Money
- WHERE TO REDEEM. With your voucher, locate a WOWPASS kiosk machines at the following:
- Airports: Incheon International Airport (Terminals 1 & 2), Gimpo International Airport
- Subway stations: Seoul Station, Myeongdong Station, Hongik Univ. Station (Hongdae), Jamsil Station, Gangnam Station, DDP Station, Gwanghwamun Station, Yeouido Station, & more
- Hotels: L7 Hongdae, La Casa Hotel Seoul, Travelodge Dongdaemun, Ibis Styles Ambasador Incheon Airport, Jeju Shinhwa World Marriott Resort, Fairfiled by Marriott Busan, & more
- Malls: Lotte Mart Gimpo Airport Branch, Emart Jeju Branch, & more
- Stores: M Playground Hongdae, CU Myeongdong, & more
- BEST REVIEW:
We were so glad that this is available to tourists. This is really a big help when you visit. This saves you a lot of time exchanging your money to Korean Won… Indeed, South Korea is already a card society. Even the small-scaled [entrepreneurs] accept this. This works like a debit card for tourists. They have promotions and cashbacks from time to time. I hope in the future, more Wowpass Kiosks will be available everywhere in South Korea. Also, this works as a TMoney too – but you have to recharge it to TMoney Kiosks with cash.
2. T-Money Card & 4G Korea SIM Card by LG U+
If you’re thinking about purchasing a T-Money and a SIM card in Korea, then this option is perfect for you. By buying this money-saving South Korea T-Money & SIM Card combo, you will not only get connected to the internet and be equipped with a transit card, you’ll also get to save money!
- PRICE: Book here starting at around $19.5 (for a 5-day SIM card + T-Money card)
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: Reloadable T-money card, unlimited data for 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, & 60 days, call-and-text feature (optional), mobile hotspot capability, and nationwide coverage for data
- PICK-UP LOCATIONS & HOURS. This 2-in-1 Korea SIM card & T-Money card can be collected at any of the following airports:
- Incheon International Airport, Terminal 1 (6am-10pm)
- Incheon International Airport, Terminal 2 (6am-10pm)
- Gimpo International Airport (6:30am-11pm)
- BEST REVIEW: A Klook user who purchased this T-Money card option left a review saying that “the other half of the card doubled as a T-money card which was very useful!”. The customer also noted that she enjoyed good connection in Seoul & Busan.
3. Discover Seoul Pass with T-Money
The Discover Seoul Pass may be known as an all-in-one admission pass to enter 50+ of the best attractions in and around Seoul, but the physical card actually also doubles as a T-Money card. If you plan to purchase a physical Discover Seoul Pass (not the mobile version), you’ll be able to use it as your T-Money — no need to buy one separately!
- PRICE: Book here starting at $40 (2023 price)
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: Discover Seoul Pass (card type) for 24, 48, or 72 hours
- PICK-UP LOCATIONS:
- Incheon International Airport Terminal 1
- Incheon International Airport Terminal 2
- Gimpo International Airport
- Myeongdong Tourist Information Center
4. Klook T-Money Card (Incheon Airport or Gimpo Airport Pick-up)
Avid user of Klook? Get their exclusive T-Money integrated transportation card that comes in 3 options: T-Money card only, T-Money card with ₩5,000 credit, or a T-Money card with ₩5,000 credit + SIM Card!
- PRICE: Book here starting at $24.3!
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: Customized T-money card (Klook design), preloaded ₩5,000 credit, & a 5-day Korea SIM card
- PICK-UP LOCATIONS & HOURS:
- Incheon International Airport, Terminal 1: Open 24/7
- Incheon International Airport, Terminal 2: Open 24/7
- BEST REVIEW: “Convenient [to use] when going around by public transportation,” wrote a Klook user who purchased this T-Money card option. “Used it on the first day to take the bus to the Seoul Tower. Easy recharge at convenience.”
5. Korea Tour Card (Mobile T-Money) Coupon
Using an Android smartphone? Turn your device into a mobile T-Money card! Book this option and get a coupon for the Korea Tour Card app, which is the mobile version of T-Money card for tourists.
Before riding the bus or subway, simply tap open the Korea Tour App and scan your smartphone at the sensor — no need for a physical T-Money card. What’s more, you’ll also be able to top-up your T-Money on the app, check your balance, request for a refund for your balance, and more! Learn more about the Korea Tour Card below:
- PRICE: Starts at $4.6 here!
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: Korea Tour Card (T-Money) coupon and ₩5,000 top-ip coupon
- HOW TO USE: Receive your Korea Tour Card coupon, download the Korea Tour Card app, register the code on your coupon, and top-up
- BEST REVIEW: A customer who purchased this option said she” was hesitant at first thinking an actual card would be better”. After using it, she was “glad” because “it was very easy to set up and [top-up] can be done anywhere using debit/credit cards too.”
How to Top Up Your T-Money Card
When your T-Money balance runs low, you can easily top up using the Transportation Card reloading machines found in subways. To load:
- Simply place your T-Money card on the sensor (it’s the middle box below the screen)
- Choose English as your preferred language, and the machine will display the top-up amount options available.
- Insert your cash (or coins), and you’ll be all set to ride the next train.
If you will use the Korea Tour Card app, you’ll be able to top up your mobile T-Money card using a debit or credit card straight from the app! Of course, you can also go to a nearby convenience store and request the staff to reload your T-Money card.
How to Use T-Money in the Subway, Bus, and Taxi
When riding the bus, place your T-Money card on the sensor until you hear it beep. You’ll then see the charged amount as well as the remaining balance of your card. Before getting off, make sure to tap your T-Money card on the sensor by the rear doors to get the discount or free transfer.
The process is basically the same when using the T-Money in the metro subway, except you’d have to tap your card on the sensor found at the turnstiles.
If you plan to use your Korea T-Money card in a taxi, inform the driver that you want to pay with it before getting in. If their vehicle is equipped with the function, you can then tap your T-Money on the sensor, which is usually located between the two front seats. If your balance isn’t enough to cover the expense, you can pay for the amount you’re short using cash.
How to Get a Refund for Your T-Money Card Balance
If you have a remaining balance of ₩20,000 or less in your T-Money card, you can go to a convenience store and get a refund instantly. The amount that you will get back will be your balance less the service fee (around ₩500).
If you have more than ₩20,000 left in your T-Money and want a refund, you’d have to drop by T-Money’s headquarters.
T-Money Card Alternatives: Other Transportation Cards in Korea
Aside from T-Money, you can also consider getting other e-money or stored-value transportation cards, such as Cashbee and Korea Railplus Transport Card. Both cards function the same way as T Money, however they’re not as popular as T-Money among locals and tourists alike.
You can also consider getting this NAMANE Card, which is a prepaid card that you can customize according to the design you like! The card can be used not only for transportation, but also for payments in stores that accept debit cards. Find out more how you can buy, design, and use your own travel card in Korea here!
FAQ: T-Money in Korea
1. Where Can I Use T-Money in Korea?
You can use your T-Money card in the following subway lines, retail stores, and restaurants:
A. TRANSPORTATION (Subway & Train)
- Seoul & Gyeonggi
- Airport Railroad (to go from Incheon to Seoul and vice-versa)
- Lines 1-9
- Shinbundang Line
- U Line
- Suin Line
- Gyeongchun Line
- Gyeongui-Jungang Line
- Jungang Line
- Bundang Line
- Yongin Ever Line
- Ui Sinseol Line
- Bundang Line and more!
- Incheon (Lines 1-2)
- Daejeon (Line 1)
- Daegu (Line 1)
- Gwangju (Line 1)
- Busan (Lines 1-4)
B. Use T-Money for the following buses in Korea:
- Seoul & Gyeonggi
- Incheon
- Daejeon
- Daegu
- Ulsan
- Gwangju
- Busan
- Sejong
- Gangwon
- Chungbuk
- Chungnam
- Gyeongbu
- Gyeongnam
- Jeonbuk
- Jeonnam
- Jeju
C. T-Money for Retail & Convenience Stores in Korea
Use T-Money in the following convenience Stores in Korea:
- 7-Eleven
- CU
- GS25
- Ministop
- 365 Plus
- StoryWay
- IGA Mart
- C Space
- With Me
- Best All
- Use T-Money in the following shops in Korea:
- Home Plus
- lalavla
- Hyundai U-Plex
- GS Supermarket
- Home Plus Express
- Red Bucket
- Use T-Money in the following bakeries in Korea:
- Paris Baguette
- Dunkin’ Donuts
- Use T-Money in the following cafes in Korea:
- Starbucks
- Caffe Pascucci
- Baskin Robbins
- Jamba Juice
- Angel in us Coffee
- Caffe TIAMO
- Gong Cha
- Use T-Money in the following restaurants/fastfood outlets in Korea:
- Lotteria
- McDonalds
- Use T-Money in the following cosmetic shops in Korea:
- Holika Holika
- The Face Shop
- TONYMOLY
- Innisfree
- Use TMoney in the following entertainment outlets in Korea:
- Everland Resort
- Wyverns Baseball Club
2. Can you use T-Money in Busan or Jeju, South Korea?
Yes! Apart from Seoul, you can also use your T-Money in Busan. Other places where you can use T-Money include Gyeonggi-do, Incheon, Daegu, Daejeon, and Gwangju.
3. What are other options for T-Money Korea?
You can consider purchasing the Korea Travel Card, which has a dedicated app, or the Namane Card, which can be customized according to the design you like!
4. How can I recharge T-Money in Korea? How do you use T-Money?
T-Money cards in Korea are stored-value cards (prepaid transportation card). To use T-Money, you must top up any amount from ₩1,000-90,000 at any TMoney reloading or recharging stations found at the subway station. Once done, you can use it to pay for your transportation fares.
5. Do T-Money cards expire?
No, they don’t! When you purchase one on your first trip, you can use the same card on your succeeding visits. It makes for a good souvenir, too!
6. Is it true that T-Money cards have other designs and forms like keychains, necklaces, etc.?
Yep! Once in a while, the company behind T-Money blesses us with special edition T-Money cards, such as Kakao Friends, Pokemon, and BTS. To see T-Money cards with exclusive benefits, read more on the official website here.
Oh, for locals, there are also T-Money that come in the form of keychains, phone accessories, bag tags, and more!
7. How much should I load my T-Money Card in Korea?
To help you budget how much money you’ll load up to your T-Money card, check out the following public transportation fares in Korea:
A. Airport railroad train fares (Incheon to Seoul and vice-versa)
If you enter Korea through Incheon International Airport and make your way to Seoul Station by train, expect to pay the following fares:
- Incheon to Seoul Station (and vice-versa) via KTX or Airport Express Train:
- KTX is the train option for you if you want a faster and more premium ride to Seoul Station.
- Adult: around ₩9,000 or $7
- Children: around ₩7,000 or $6
- Incheon to Seoul Station (and vice-versa) via the All-Stop train:
- All-Stop is the train option for you if you want to pay less to go to Seoul Station.
- If boarding from Terminal 1: around ₩4,150 or $3.5
- If boarding from Terminal 2: around ₩4,750 or $4
If you’ll go farther than Seoul Station, i.e. Myeongdong Station or Dongdaemun History and Culture Park, you’ll have to load an additional amount of at least ₩1,250 or $1) on top of your KTX or All-Stop Train fares listed above.
B. Subway Fares in Seoul
If you’ll mostly use the subway in Seoul to get to different points in the city, i.e. Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gangnam, or Itaewon, here are the subway basic fares for T-Money card users (already discounted):
- Adults (19+): ₩1,250 or $1 per trip
- Teens (13-18): ₩720 or $0.6) per trip
- Children (7-12): ₩450 or $0.4) per trip
- Children (0-6): FREE
The basic fare covers a travel distance of 10 km or less. An additional ₩100 (around $0.09) is charged for every 5 km traveled within a distance of 10-50 km, and ₩100 for every 8km traveled with a distance of over 50 km.
C. Subway Fares in Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, & Gwangju
When you’re in Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, or Gwangju, you can also use your T-Money to access their respective subway lines. Here are the discounted rates for T-Money Card users:
- Busan Subway Fare (Section 1)
- Section 1 rates cover a travel distance of up to 10.5 km only.
- Adults: ₩1,300 or $1.1 per trip
- Teens: ₩1,050 or $0.9 per trip
- Children: ₩650 or $0.6 per trip
- Busan Subway Fare (Section 2)
- Section 2 rates apply for those traveling a travel distance of more than to 10.5 km.
- Adults: ₩1,500 or $1.3 per trip
- Teens: ₩1,200 or $1.05 per trip
- Children: ₩750 or $0.7 per trip
- Daejeon Subway Fare (Section 1)
- Section 1 rates cover a travel distance of up to 10 km only.
- Adults: ₩1,250 or $1.1 per trip
- Teens: ₩880 or $0.8 per trip
- Children: ₩550 or $0.5 per trip
- Daejeon Subway Fare (Section 2)
- Section 2 rates apply for those traveling a travel distance of more than to 10 km.
- Adults: ₩1,350 or $1.2 per trip
- Teens: ₩960 or $0.84 per trip
- Children: ₩600 or $0.53 per trip
- Daegu Subway Fare
- Adults: ₩1,250 or $1.1 per trip
- Teens: ₩850 or $0.7 per trip
- Children: ₩400 or $0.35 per trip
- Gwangju Subway Fare
- Adults: ₩1,250 or $1.1 per trip
- Teens: ₩900 or $0.8 per trip
- Children: ₩500 or $0.44 per trip
Do note that T-Money cannot be used to pay for your inter-city train transfers, i.e. Seoul to Busan or Daegu to Daejeon. T-Money can only be used to pay for the subway lines within each city.
D. Bus Fares in Seoul, South Korea
If you’ll be taking a bus to explore the capital, here are the fares for T-Money users:
- Blue Bus Seoul Ticket Price
- Adults: ₩1,250 or $1.09 per trip
- Teens: ₩720 or $0.6 per trip
- Children: ₩450 or $0.4 per trip
- Green Bus Seoul Ticket Price
- Adults: ₩1,250 or $1.09 per trip
- Teens: ₩720 or $0.6 per trip
- Children: ₩450 or $0.4 per trip
- Yellow Bus Seoul Ticket Price:
- Adults: ₩1,100 or $0.9 per trip
- Teens: ₩560 or $0.5 per trip
- Children: ₩350 or $0.3 per trip
- Red Bus Seoul Ticket Price
- Adults: ₩2,300 or $2 per trip
- Teens: ₩1,360 or $0.5 per trip
- Children: ₩1,200 or $1.05 per trip
- Night Bus Seoul Ticket Price
- Adults: ₩2,150 or $1.9 per trip
- Teens: ₩1,360 or $1.2 per trip
- Children: ₩1,200 or $1.05 per trip
In case you’re wondering, buses in Seoul are color-coded and offer the following services:
- Blue Buses: Run on major highways in Seoul
- Green Buses: Travel shorter distances and stop at subway stations.
- Red Buses: Travel from Seoul to suburban areas.
- Yellow Buses: Operate on a closed circuit within a district of Seoul.
