How to get to Busan from Seoul (/Incheon Airport)

How long does it takes from Seoul Station to Busan Station on KTX High-Speed Train ?

2hrs 15 mins to 3 hours based on the departure train.

💡KTX is the fastest train between Seoul and Busan. The slower but cheaper intercity ITX takes about 5hrs and regional service Mugunghwa takes about 6hrs.

Seoul to Busan KTX Train Network Map on Gyeongbu Line

Seoul to Busan - KTX Train Network Map - Gyeongbu Line | KoreaToDo

What is the KTX High-Speed Train Fare from Seoul to Busan

Economy Class (with reserve seat, 1-way): ₩42,900 - ₩54,400

First Class (with reserve seat, 1-way): ₩67,400 - ₩78,900

💡Prices may vary according to train timings, day of the week and subject to change.

Where & How to book the KTX Train Tickets?

You can purchase single trip/return tickets on KORAIL official website or easily on KLOOK (recommended).

💡It is recommended to book your tickets on KLOOK for better support on your reservation, detailed guide on how to board the train and any other common FAQs. Also, you can purchase your train tickets up to 3 months in advance on KLOOK (compared to only 1 month on KORAIL website) until 20 mins before departure. KLOOK may offer slightly better train fares too. Reservation on KLOOK includes Instant e-Ticketing where you can select your preferred travel date, train time, seat class and seat selection. You can board the train directly with KLOOK e-ticket (no screen capture), without having to pick up the physical ticket at all. On arrival at the train station, you just need to check the train's platform number on the big screen and board the train with your assigned seat. You are only required to show your e-ticket to the train staff on board when requested.

KORAIL KTX High-Speed Train - Instant eTicketing

4.7★

Seoul ⇄ Busan 2.5hrs, seat selection, book up to 3 mths advance, >100 daily departures

₩42,900

For travellers who are travelling more extensively in Korea rather than point-to-point (e.g. Seoul to Busan, Busan to Seoul), you may consider the KORAIL PASS, applicable only for overseas visitors.

The KORAIL PASS includes 2 to 5 days select pass options. For example, you can purchase the KORAIL PASS - 2 Day Select Pass at ₩131,000 per adult or ₩66,000 per child, allowing you up to 2 tickets per person per day with additional train segments on standing seats. Also, with the KORAIL PASS, you can make advanced seat reservations and get your e-ticket online easily!

Popular stops between Seoul and Busan along Gyeongbu Line include Suwon Station (for Suwon Hwaseong Fortress), Gyeongju Station (for Gyeongju, ancient capital of Silla Dynasty) and Ulsan Station.

What is KORAIL PASS for Tourists Only?

Where to buy the KORAIL PASS & Get your Instant Train Ticket Online?

1. You can purchase the KORAIL PASS on KORAIL official website or easily on KLOOK (recommended for better support on your reservation and detailed guide on making your seat reservation online). Once you have purchased your pass online, you will receive the e-pass via email.

Korea Rail Pass: KTX Bullet Train (BUSAN⇌SEOUL)

4.8★

★tourist exclusive: 2, 3, 4 or 5 days / instant pass issuance / online seat reservation

₩131,000

2. Next, follow the instructions to book your preferred train schedule (date/time) and select your seat to book your train ticket to Busan on KORAIL website. You will receive your e-ticket via email as well.

KORAIL - Ticket Reservation - Train Schedule (Seoul To Busan ) | Seoul, South Korea

KORAIL - Ticket Reservation (Seoul To Busan ) - Seat Selection | Seoul, South Korea

3. Print out (or via your mobile) on both your KORAIL e-pass and e-ticket (to present together with your passport on board the train when inspected). Yes, that's all you need!

Notes:

KTX (around 2.5hrs) is the fastest and direct bullet train from Seoul to Busan compared to the slower Mugunghwa (5hrs+) and ITX Saemaul (4hrs+) trains.
Ticket reservation available one month in advance based on your travel date.
No KORAIL PASS or Ticket redemption required in Seoul/Busan at all (since end 2017). Just book online and board the train!

How to get from Incheon Airport to Busan?

Infrequent bus services operate from Incheon Airport to Haeundae/East Busan (listed under Gyeongsang on Incheon Airport official website) in Busan (5.5hrs, ₩53,500).

There is no direct train from Incheon Airport to Busan. A train transfer is required at Seoul (Station) to Busan (Station). The AREX Express Train from Incheon Airport to Seoul is not covered by the KORAIL PASS. Non-stop AREX Express Train from Incheon Airport to Seoul takes 43 mins from Terminal 1 and 51 mins from Terminal 2, ₩13,000.

AREX Incheon Airport Express Train 1 Way Ticket (ICN airport ⇄ Seoul Station)

4.8★

Airport T1: 43 mins / T2: 51 mins

₩11,500

AREX Train (non express) that stops by 12 subway stations takes 59 mins (T1, ₩4750) and 66 mins (T2, ₩5350) to Seoul Station.

Recommendations:

If you plan to return to Seoul after Busan, you may like to consider to check in your accommodation at Seoul first. This way, you can leave your luggage in Seoul and travel to Busan on a lighter overnight pack later.

Other Related Useful Information

Luggage Storage/Lockers at Busan Station

Where to Stay in Busan

Top Scenic Walking & Hiking Trails

Seoul & Busan Travel Itinerary

Busan Top Attractions

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