How to Book KTX Tickets to Busan: Official Website & App Guide (2026)

Traveling from Seoul to Busan by KTX (Korea Train Express) is the most popular choice for international tourists. With speeds up to 300 km/h, you can reach the southern coast in about 2.5 to 3 hours. Here is the most reliable way to book your seats using official channels.

1. Official Booking Channels

While various third-party travel agencies offer train tickets, we strongly recommend using the official services provided by KORAIL (Korea Railroad Corporation) to avoid extra fees and ensure easy cancellations or changes.

• Let’s Korail (Website): Best for planning and booking on a PC before your trip.
• Korail Talk (Mobile App): The most convenient way to manage your “Mobile Ticket” while traveling.

2. Step-by-Step: Booking via Let’s Korail Website

1. Go to the Official Let’s Korail English Site.
2. Select “Booking”: Choose “Online Booking” from the top menu.
3. Enter Trip Details: Set Departure to “Seoul” and Arrival to “Busan”. Select your date, time, and number of passengers.
4. Select Train: You will see a list of trains (KTX, KTX-Sancheon, etc.). Click ‘Select’ for your preferred time.
5. Enter Personal Info: Provide your name, passport number, and email address accurately.
6. Payment: Enter your credit card details and complete the purchase.
7. Print Voucher: Check your email and print the voucher or save the PDF on your phone.

3. Step-by-Step: Using the Korail Talk App

The Korail Talk app is the standard mobile tool for train travel in Korea. It is operated by KORAIL and is available in English.

• Setup: Download ‘Korail Talk’ from the App Store or Google Play. Switch the Language to English in the app settings.
• Booking: The process is similar to the website. After payment, your ticket will appear in the “My Ticket” tab.
• No Printing Needed: Simply show the QR code on your app if a conductor asks to see your ticket (though they usually check seats via their handheld devices).

4. Pro Tips for Your Busan Trip

[2026] The Ultimate ‘Lovely Runner’ Suwon Tour Guide: Real-time Navigation

Planning a pilgrimage to the filming locations of <Lovely Runner (선재 업고 튀어)>? Most iconic scenes were filmed in Haenggung-dong, Suwon. This guide provides direct Naver Map Directions links to help you find your way from Seoul to Suwon like a local.

1. Key Filming Spots (Direct Map Links)

Save these spots directly to your navigation app. We recommend using Naver Map for the most precise walking directions in these narrow alleys.

2. How to Get to Suwon (Live Directions)

Click the links below to open Naver Map Directions from major Seoul hubs to Suwon.

Option A: Via Subway (From Central Seoul)

• Route: Seoul Station (Line 1/4/AREX/Gyeongui-Jungang) → Suwon Station
• Live Navigation: Open Naver Directions (Subway)

Option B: Via Express Bus (From South Seoul)

• From Gangnam: Take Bus 3000 to Suwon.
  👉 Live Route (Gangnam to Suwon)
• From Sadang: Take Bus 7770 (Highly frequent).
  👉 Live Route (Sadang to Suwon)

3. Final Leg: Suwon Station to Filming Spots

Since it’s about 3km from Suwon Station to the filming area, we recommend a short bus or taxi ride.

• Bus/Taxi Route: From Suwon Station to Im Sol’s House.
  👉 Open Naver Directions (Final Leg)

4. Official Resources & Booking

• KTX/Train Booking: Let’s Korail (Official)
• Seoul Subway Info: Seoul Metro (Official)
• Gyeonggi Bus Data: GBIS (Official)

How to Get to Seoul Station from Anywhere in Seoul: A Reliable Navigation Guide

Seoul is a massive metropolis with a world-class public transit system. However, finding your way to Seoul Station to catch your KTX train requires the right tools and a bit of local knowledge. This guide will help you navigate efficiently and avoid common pitfalls.

1. Navigating Korea: Choosing the Right Map App

While Google Maps is a global standard, its functionality in South Korea is limited. Due to complex local policies regarding high-resolution map data export, Google Maps does not support full turn-by-turn driving or walking navigation in Korea. For the most accurate real-time data, we recommend using widely-used private navigation services:

• Naver Map: A popular choice for many travelers, offering interfaces in English, Chinese, and Japanese, along with translated user reviews.
• KakaoMap: Known for its precise real-time traffic data and English interface, though some users may find its UI layout or translation quality slightly different from global standards.

2. Understanding Seoul Station: A Major Transit Hub

Seoul Station is not just one building; it is a massive complex where several lines converge. Make sure you are heading toward the correct line:

• Subway Line 1 (Dark Blue) & Line 4 (Light Blue)
• Airport Railroad (AREX): Direct and all-stop trains to Incheon and Gimpo Airports.
• Gyeongui-Jungang Line: Connecting the northwestern and eastern parts of the metropolitan area.

3. Getting There: Subway vs. Bus

Option A: The Subway (Best for Speed)

The subway is generally the fastest way to avoid Seoul’s traffic. Once you exit the subway gates, follow the signs for “KTX / Train”. The KTX terminal is located on the ground level, whereas the subway platforms are underground. We recommend allowing 10–15 minutes for this walk, especially if you have heavy luggage.

Option B: Public Bus (Alternative for Luggage)

Many buses stop at the Seoul Station Bus Transfer Center located in the large plaza in front of the station. While buses can be easier if you want to avoid subway stairs, the transfer center itself is a complex structure with various islands and walkways. Some paths may still involve ramps or escalators, so stay alert if you are carrying heavy bags.

The Ultimate 2026 Seoul to Busan KTX Guide: Booking, Boarding, and Pro Tips

Traveling from Seoul to Busan is a highlight of any Korea trip, and taking the KTX (Korea Train Express) is undoubtedly the fastest and most efficient way to do it. In just about 2.5 hours, you can swap the bustling city of Seoul for the beautiful coastal vibes of Busan.

1. Where It All Begins: Seoul Station

All KTX trains headed for Busan depart from Seoul Station, the city’s primary transportation hub. Because the station is massive and serves multiple subway lines and trains, we recommend arriving at least 20–30 minutes before your departure.

• Location: Connected to Seoul Subway Line 1, Line 4, and the Airport Railroad (AREX).

2. How to Book KTX Tickets (Official Methods)

For international travelers, booking tickets is simple and can be done entirely online with a foreign credit card. There are two official ways to secure your seat.

Option A: Let’s Korail Website (Best for Desktop)

Ideal for travelers who want to book their tickets in advance before arriving in Korea.

1. Visit the Official Let’s Korail English Website.
2. Select Your Journey: Choose Seoul to Busan, your date, and the number of passengers.
3. Search & Select: Click ‘Inquiry’ and choose your preferred train time.
4. Payment: Enter your credit card details (Visa, Master, and JCB are widely accepted).
5. Save Your Ticket: You will receive a voucher via email. Save it on your phone or print it.

Option B: Korail Talk App (Must-Have for Mobile)

Highly recommended for booking on the go or managing your tickets digitally.

• Install: Search for ‘Korail Talk‘ in the App Store or Google Play.
• Set Language: Open the menu and switch the Language to English.
• Mobile Ticket: Your ticket will be stored in the ‘My Ticket’ section. No printing is required.

3. Boarding the KTX at Seoul Station

One unique thing about South Korean train stations is that there are no ticket barriers (turnstiles). You can walk straight to the platform.

1. Check the Board: Find your train number and Platform Number (Track No.) on the digital screens.
2. Head to the Platform: Follow the signs to your assigned track. There are no gates to scan through.
3. Find Your Seat: Look for your Car Number on the side of the train and locate your seat inside.

4. KTX On-board Amenities

• Charging Ports: Power outlets and USB ports are available at most seats.
• Free Wi-Fi: Join the ‘KORAIL-WiFi’ network for free internet.
• Luggage: Overhead racks and dedicated luggage areas are available for large suitcases.