How to Travel Between Cities in Korea (KTX vs Bus vs Car)
South Korea offers a highly developed transportation network that makes intercity travel fast, safe, and affordable. Whether you're planning a trip from Seoul to Busan, or a weekend getaway to Gyeongju, this guide will help you decide the best way to travel between Korean cities—by KTX (high-speed train), intercity bus, or rental car.
🚄 KTX (Korea Train Express)
KTX is Korea’s bullet train service operated by Korail. It connects major cities like Seoul, Busan, Daejeon, Gwangju, and Daegu with speeds up to 300 km/h (186 mph).
- ✅ Fastest option – Seoul to Busan in under 2.5 hours
- ✅ Comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, clean restrooms
- ❌ Slightly more expensive than buses
- 💳 Book via letsKorail.com or Trip.com
Ticket Price (Seoul ↔ Busan): ₩50,000–₩60,000 (approx. $38–$45 USD)
🚌 Express & Intercity Buses
Buses are budget-friendly and operate between almost all cities and towns in Korea. There are two main types:
- Express Buses: Run between major cities, faster and more direct
- Intercity Buses: Connect smaller towns with more stops
Pros:
- ✅ Cheapest option
- ✅ Frequent departures (every 20–30 minutes on popular routes)
- ❌ Slower than KTX (Seoul to Busan: ~4.5 hours)
Where to Buy Tickets: At bus terminals or online via kobus.co.kr (English available)
🚗 Renting a Car in Korea
If you prefer flexibility or are planning to visit remote places like mountain areas or national parks, renting a car can be a great choice.
- ✅ Freedom to explore rural Korea at your own pace
- ✅ Useful for family trips or road trips to Jeju, Gangwon-do, etc.
- ❌ Traffic and tolls in major cities
- ❌ Parking can be expensive or limited
Requirements: International Driving Permit (IDP) + passport
Recommended platforms: Lotte Rent-a-Car, Hertz Korea, SoCar App
📊 Quick Comparison Table
| Mode | Avg Time (Seoul → Busan) | Cost (One Way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| KTX | 2h 20min | ₩50,000–₩60,000 | Fast, Comfortable, Time-Saving |
| Express Bus | 4h 30min | ₩25,000–₩35,000 | Budget Travelers |
| Rental Car | ~5h (depending on traffic) | ₩60,000+/day (plus fuel/tolls) | Scenic Routes, Flexibility |
🧭 Travel Tip: Seoul to Busan
If you're only traveling between Seoul and Busan, KTX is usually the best option unless you’re on a tight budget. If you're stopping in Gyeongju or Tongyeong, a bus may offer more direct access.
📱 Helpful Apps for Intercity Travel
- Korail Talk: Train schedules and ticket booking
- KOBUS: Express bus reservations
- Naver Map / KakaoMap: Route planning with public transit
- SoCar / GreenCar: Car-sharing platforms
Conclusion
Whether you're zipping across the country with the KTX, saving money with intercity buses, or enjoying a scenic drive with a rental car, Korea offers a transport option for every type of traveler. Choose the one that best fits your schedule, budget, and adventure style. Safe travels!
