Korea Train Travel Guide: KTX, Rail Pass & Routes

Discover everything you need for Korea train travel. From the high-speed KTX to scenic tourist trains, here’s how to book, ride, and save money.

Ever wondered how long it really takes to get from Seoul to Busan by train? Or whether the Korea Rail Pass actually saves you money?

Train travel in South Korea is fast, simple, and surprisingly fun once you know how it works.

In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know before hopping on board, from the different trains to the best routes and booking tips.

Types of Trains in Korea

Korea’s trains are run by Korail, and honestly they’re one of the easiest ways to get around. Here’s the breakdown of train types:

• KTX and KTX-Sancheon: These are the super fast ones. They go over 300 km/h and link Seoul with cities like Busan, Mokpo, Yeosu, Jinju, Gangneung, and Donghae. If you need speed, this is it.
• SRT (Super Rapid Train): Pretty much the same as KTX, sometimes even a bit faster. The only catch is it leaves from Suseo Station in southern Seoul, not Seoul Station. Handy if you’re staying around Gangnam.
• ITX/Saemaeul: Mid-speed trains. They’re comfy, not as quick as KTX, but cheaper and stop only at bigger towns.
• Mugunghwa: The older trains. Slower, make more stops, but still fine if you’re not in a rush. They’re slowly being swapped out for newer Nuriro trains, which are a bit nicer.
• Tourist Trains: These are more for fun than transport. Think the V-Train through the mountains, the G-Train with a little foot bath café, the coastal S-Train, the colorful A-Train, or even the Wine Train where you sip as you ride.
• Rail Cruise Haerang: This is Korea’s only sleeper train, and it’s more like a moving hotel. It has cabins, a lounge, meals, even sightseeing stops built into the trip. Pricey, but very different.

Best KTX Routes in South Korea

Once you know which train to book, the next question is where to go. Here are the most popular KTX routes that I think every traveler should know:

• Seoul → Busan: The classic. About 2.5 to 3 hours, and you go straight from the capital to Korea’s beach city.
• Seoul → Gyeongju: Around 2 hours. Perfect if you want to explore ancient temples and heritage sites.
• Seoul → Daegu: About 1.5 hours. A good stop if you’re heading south but don’t want to go all the way to Busan.
• Seoul → Gwangju: Just under 3 hours. Great for food lovers and a different city vibe.
• Seoul → Jeonju (via Iksan): Roughly 1 hour 40 minutes. Jeonju is famous for bibimbap and its hanok village.
• Seoul → Incheon Airport: Some KTX routes go directly, though most travelers still use the AREX line. It’s worth knowing the option exists.

KTX trains are frequent, so you rarely have to wait long. If you’re short on time and want to cover a lot of ground, this is by far the best way to do it.

Read more: Best Time to Visit Korea so you know when train trips are at their best.

Korea Rail Pass (KR Pass): Is It Worth It?

So what is Korea Rail Pass?

If you’re not a Korean resident, you can get a Korail Pass. It lets you hop on most trains, including KTX, without paying for each ride. It doesn’t cover subways or the tourist trains, but it’s great for longer trips.

You can choose:

• Consecutive pass: 3 or 5 days in a row. Works if you’re moving every day.
• Flexible pass: 2 or 4 days spread over 10 days. Good if you want breaks between travel days.

It’s worth it if you’re doing something like Seoul → Gyeongju → Busan → back to Seoul. That’s usually enough to save money.

Another perk is if tickets are sold out, you can still get on with a pass as a standing passenger.

I bought my Korail pass on booking sites like Klook or Trazy. They’re great with English support.

How to Book Train Tickets in Korea

There are a few different ways to get your Korean train tickets.

• Korail website or KorailTalk app: This is the official way. It works, but sometimes the English version is clunky.
• SRT website or app: Only for SRT trains, but handy if you’re leaving from Suseo.
• Station counters and machines: You can buy tickets at the station, but during holidays like Chuseok or Lunar New Year, trains sell out fast.
• Third-party platforms (Klook, Trazy): These are often the easiest if you don’t want the hassle. You can book in English, pay with your card, and sometimes even grab discounted passes.

I usually suggest booking online in advance if you’re traveling on a weekend or holiday. Just know that trains run on time here, so show up at least 10–15 minutes before departure.

Scenic and Special Tourist Trains in Korea

If you’re not in a rush and want the train ride itself to be part of your trip, Korea has some fun scenic trains.

G-Train (West Gold Train)

This one leaves from Seoul and runs down the west coast. The windows are huge, and there’s even a little foot bath café inside.

I find it’s the kind of train you take when you want to sit back and just watch the countryside roll by.

V-Train (Valley Train)

The V-Train runs through Gangwon’s mountain valleys in retro-style cars. It’s slow and steady, but that gives you time to soak in the scenery.

S-Train (South Coast Train)

This train follows the southern coastline. One route connects Busan to Yeosu, the other runs from Gwangju to Masan, and you can even switch routes at Hadong.

If you want to see smaller seaside towns, this is the way to do it.

A-Train (Arirang Train)

Brightly decorated and named after Korea’s famous folk song, the A-Train leaves from Cheongnyangni Station in Seoul.

It passes through Jeongseon, which is known for its traditional market that pops up every five days.

Wine & Gugak Train

If you want something different, this wine cinema train combines wine tastings with live traditional Korean music. It runs through the countryside and feels more like an event than just travel.

Rail Cruise Haerang

This is the only sleeper train in South Korea, and it’s more like a hotel on rails. Cabins range from simple to private suites, and your ticket includes meals and sightseeing stops.

It’s definitely a splurge, but if you’ve ever wanted to sleep on a train, this is the one to try.

Haeundae Sky Capsule, Busan

Not part of Korail, but I think it’s worth mentioning. In Busan, little colorful capsules glide along the coast from Mipo to Cheongsapo.

The ride is short, but the views are incredible, and it’s one of the most photogenic things you can do in Busan.

What to Expect Onboard Korean Trains

Korean trains are comfortable and easy to use, but here are a few things to know before you hop on.

Seats

Most trains have reserved seating, and your ticket will show the car and seat number.

Standard class is roomy enough for most people, with good legroom. First class gives you wider seats and a bit more space.

Some slower trains like Mugunghwa still have unreserved cars. Those are cheaper, but you’ll have to grab a seat quickly or stand if it’s crowded.

Food and Drinks

Don’t expect full meals onboard. KTX sometimes has a snack cart that rolls through with drinks, chips, and instant noodles, but it’s not guaranteed.

On other trains you might just find a vending machine. I usually suggest picking up snacks or a coffee at the station before boarding. The selection is much better.

Luggage

Overhead racks can fit your carry-on size bags easily.

If you have larger suitcases, store them in the racks at the ends of the cars. However. space is limited, especially on busy routes like Seoul to Busan.

If you’re traveling heavy, get to the train a little early so you can find a spot.

Etiquette

Trains are quiet spaces in Korea.

Keep your voice low, use headphones, and don’t take loud phone calls.

Wait for people to get off before you board, and avoid eating strong-smelling foods in the cars.

A little courtesy goes a long way, and locals will notice when you follow the unspoken rules.

Read next: Korea Travel Etiquette for more do’s and don’ts.

Tips for First-Time Train Travelers in Korea

If it’s your first time taking trains in Korea, here are a few things I always keep in mind:

• Arrive early: Ten to fifteen minutes is enough. Trains leave exactly on time.
• Keep your ticket handy: You’ll need it to find your seat, and sometimes to show staff.
• Pack light if you can: Luggage space is limited. A carry-on fits easily, but giant suitcases can be awkward.
• Snacks are your friend: Grab something from the station before boarding.
• Learn the stations: Seoul has multiple train stations (Seoul Station, Yongsan, Suseo). Double-check where your train leaves from.

Once you’ve done it once or twice, you’ll see just how easy it is.

FAQs About Train Travel in Korea

Before You Go

Traveling by train in South Korea is one of the easiest ways to see the country. Once you’ve figured out the basics, it all feels straightforward. You’ll go from city to city quickly, comfortably, and without the stress of traffic.

If you’re still planning your South Korea trip, here are a few guides that go well with this one:

• South Korea Travel Tips — what first-time visitors should know
• Best Time to Visit Korea — so you can plan the perfect train trip
• Korea T-money Card Guide — how to pay for subways and buses once you’re off the train
• Korea Travel Etiquette — little habits that make a big difference

With these covered, you’ll be ready to ride the rails and enjoy your trip without worrying about the details.