Train From Seoul To Busan: Why You Should Get The KORAIL Pass

Last Updated on April 30, 2025

Ready to travel to all of the amazing places in Korea I’m constantly talking about? With high-sped scenic trains crisscrossing the peninsula, you can get from Seoul to Busan or just about anywhere in between via train… if you know how it works. The KTX is one of the most efficient rail systems in Asia and if you want to use it, you’ll want to get to know the KORAIL pass, especially if you’re on a budget.

Get ready to travel by train in Korea:

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.)

What is the KORAIL Pass?

The KORAIL Pass is a special unlimited travel pass for foreigners visiting Korea. It allows you to travel on most trains operated by KORAIL, including the high-speed KTX and a variety of scenic and regional trains. This pass makes it incredibly easy and cost-effective to explore multiple destinations around Korea without buying separate tickets for each journey.

NOTE: The KORAIL Pass is only available to non-Korean passport holders visiting Korea with a stay of less than 6 months. Korean nationals residing abroad may also be eligible with proof of overseas residency.

Types of KORAIL Passes

Flexible/Select Pass: You can pay for 2 or 4 days of unlimited travel within a 10-day period.

Fee: Adults: W121,000 ~ W193,000; Children: W61,000 ~ W97,000

Consecutive Pass: Choose 3 or 5 consecutive days of unlimited travel from the first date of use.

Fee: Adults: W138,000 ~ W210,000; Children: W69,000 ~ W105,000

Saver Pass: Traveling in a group of 2 to 5 people? Save W10,000 per person on either of the above options.

Fee: You save W10,000 on all of the prices mentioned above.

Note: Children under 6 are free with an accompanying adult.

Which trains is the KORAIL pass for?

The pass covers nearly all KORAIL-operated trains, including:

High-speed trains: KTX, KTX-Sancheon
Express and regional trains: ITX-Saemaeul, ITX-Cheongchun, Saemaeul, Mugunghwa, and Nuriro
Scenic tourist trains: O-Train (Central Inland Circle Train), V-Train (Baekdudaegan Valley Train), A-Train (Jeongseon Arirang Train), S-Train (South Coast Train), West Gold Train, DMZ Train

Whether you’re heading to Busan for beaches, Gyeongju for history, or Jeonju for food, the KORAIL Pass gets you there efficiently and easily.

How is the cost of the KORAIL Pass compared to other forms of travel?

Taking the KTX between Seoul and Busan usually costs around W60,000 one-way. With a 2-day KORAIL Flexible Pass starting at just W121,000, you’ve already matched the cost of a round trip. Add even one more stop, say to Gyeongju, and you’re saving money.

Traveling by train is also 2-3 times faster than buses and far more comfortable than long-distance driving, especially if you have kids that will need to get up and down to go to the bathroom.

Who can buy the KORAIL Pass?

Only foreign toursists can purchase the KORAIL Pass. You must be entering Korea with a non-Korean passport and a stay of less than 6 months.

Where can I buy the KORAIL Pass?

You can easily purchase the KORAIL Pass on Creatrip, on Klook, or on kkday. Booking online allows you to reserve seats and plan ahead easily.

How to use the KORAIL Pass

There are a few things to remember when using the KORAIL Pass.

You must carry your KORAIL Pass, train ticket, and passport at all times when using the trains.
You are required to have a valid passport when purchasing and using your KORAIL Pass.
KORAIL Passes are limited to one per person and can only be used by the person whose name is on the pass.
Unfortunately, you cannot change the personal information associated with the pass or the pass type after purchase so make sure everything is correct prior to purchasing.
Though you can’t change personal information as stated above, you CAN change the first date of travel once before the pass starts.

Differences between the KTX and the ITX trains

KTX

Korea’s fastest train, reaching speeds of up to 305 km/h
Connects major cities via Gyeongbu, Honam, Gyeongjeon, and Jeolla lines.
Example destinations: Seoul, Daejeon, Gwangju, Jeonju, Busan, Jinju, Yeosu

ITX

Slower than KTX, but ideal for scenic travel.
Runs on routes like the Cheongchun Line from Seoul to Gapyeong.
Great for day trips to places like Nami Island, Chuncheon, and Petite France.

Is the KORAIL Pass worth it?

Absolutely, especially if you plan to visit multiple cities. Even a simple round trip from Seoul to Busan almost breaks even. Add another destination or two, and you’re getting excellent value for your money. Plus, the convenience of unlimited rides and not having to buy tickets each time is unbeatable.

Don’t miss the chance to see more of Korea, comfortably and affordably. The KORAIL Pass is your key to unlocking so many amazing experiences in Korea.

Did you like this post? Pin iT!