If you’re planning a trip to South Korea, chances are that both Seoul and Busan are on your itinerary. Seoul, the bustling capital in the north, is full of high-tech city life, traditional palaces, and cultural landmarks. Busan, on the southern coast, offers a laid-back vibe, beautiful beaches, and fresh seafood markets. The good news is that getting from Seoul to Busan is incredibly convenient, no matter your budget or travel style.
This guide covers all the main transportation options between the two cities—whether you prefer speed, savings, or scenic routes. We’ll walk you through trains, buses, flights, and even car rentals, so you can choose what fits your plans best.
High-Speed KTX Train: Fast, Comfortable, and Efficient
The KTX (Korea Train Express) is by far the most popular way to travel from Seoul to Busan. It’s fast, efficient, and easy to use—even for first-time visitors.
The KTX departs from Seoul Station and arrives at Busan Station, which is centrally located near Nampo-dong and Jagalchi Market. The total journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
Tickets can be reserved online in advance through the KORAIL website, or you can buy them at the station. Prices vary slightly depending on seat class and time of day, but generally range from ₩59,800 to ₩83,700 for a one-way ticket.
Why choose the KTX?
Fastest travel time
Punctual and clean
Great views of the countryside
Reserved seating with power outlets
If you’re staying in Seoul near Hongdae, Myeongdong, or Gyeongbokgung, you can easily reach Seoul Station via subway Line 1 or Line 4.
SRT: A Slightly Cheaper Alternative
Another option is the SRT (Super Rapid Train), which is similar to the KTX but departs from Suseo Station in southern Seoul, not the main Seoul Station. The total ride time is also about 2.5 hours, and ticket prices are slightly cheaper.
If your hotel is in Gangnam or Jamsil, SRT might be a better choice location-wise. You can reserve tickets via SRT website or purchase them at Suseo Station.
Keep in mind that SRT and KTX operate separately, so the tickets are not interchangeable.
Intercity Buses: Budget-Friendly and Convenient
If you’re traveling on a tighter budget, express or intercity buses are a great alternative. The bus journey from Seoul to Busan takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic.
Buses leave from several major terminals in Seoul:
Seoul Express Bus Terminal (Gyeongbu Line)
Dong Seoul Terminal
Nambu Terminal
Most travelers use the Express Bus Terminal located in Gangnam. You can choose from three seat classes: standard, deluxe, and premium. Even the standard seats are fairly comfortable, and the deluxe and premium buses offer more legroom and reclining features.
One-way tickets range from ₩23,000 to ₩45,000, making this one of the most affordable options.
Tickets can be bought on-site or online via Korean bus booking apps like Kobus or Bustago, but note that these sites may not always have English versions.
Domestic Flights: Quick but Less Convenient
Flying from Seoul to Busan can be fast, but not always the most convenient.
Flights depart from Gimpo Airport (GMP) in Seoul and arrive at Gimhae Airport (PUS) in Busan. The flight itself takes only 55 minutes, but you need to factor in travel to the airport, security, boarding, and baggage claim. All in all, door-to-door time is around 3.5 to 4 hours.
Korean Air, Asiana, T’way, and Jin Air operate regular flights. Ticket prices vary widely depending on the season and how early you book, but typically range from ₩40,000 to ₩100,000.
If you already plan to be near Gimpo Airport or have a Korean domestic flight pass, this might be a good option. Otherwise, it’s often easier to stick with trains or buses.
Renting a Car: Freedom and Flexibility
If you’re planning a road trip or want to explore more off-the-beaten-path areas between Seoul and Busan, renting a car might be the best option.
Korea has a modern highway system, and the distance between Seoul and Busan is about 325 kilometers (202 miles). Driving takes roughly 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
To rent a car in Korea, you’ll need:
A valid driver’s license from your country
An International Driving Permit (IDP)
Passport for identification
Rental costs start at around ₩70,000 per day, plus gas and toll fees. Note that tolls on the expressway can add up (around ₩20,000 one-way). Also, parking in major cities can be expensive and tricky, so be prepared for that.
Apps like KakaoNavi or Naver Map (with English support) are useful for driving navigation.
Which Option Should You Choose?
It really depends on your preferences. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Option | Duration | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| KTX Train | 2.5–3 hrs | ₩59,800–₩83,700 | Speed, comfort, first-time travelers |
| SRT Train | 2.5 hrs | ₩50,000–₩75,000 | Travelers near Gangnam |
| Intercity Bus | 4–5 hrs | ₩23,000–₩45,000 | Budget travel, scenic route |
| Domestic Flight | ~4 hrs total | ₩40,000–₩100,000 | Airline miles, airport proximity |
| Car Rental | 4–5 hrs | ₩70,000+/day | Road trips, flexible plans |
For most travelers, the KTX is the best balance of speed, comfort, and accessibility. It’s also a great way to enjoy Korea’s landscape without the stress of driving or navigating apps.
Booking Tickets and Planning Ahead
Here are a few tips to make your journey smoother:
Reserve KTX or SRT tickets in advance, especially during weekends or holidays.
Use mobile apps like KORAIL Talk or Kakao T for English-friendly services.
Travel early in the day to avoid traffic or delays.
Bring snacks, especially for bus or car rides, as food options along the way are limited.
Check if your Korea SIM card includes mobile data to stay connected for maps and updates.
For international visitors, using Trazy or Klook can help you book transportation, SIM cards, and other essentials in one place.
Other Day Trips from Seoul You Might Like
If you’re thinking of exploring more places beyond Seoul and Busan, here are some great travel ideas to consider:
Gyeongju: The ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, filled with temples and royal tombs
Jeonju: Known for its traditional Hanok Village and famous bibimbap
Gangneung: A beachside city with coffee streets and beautiful sunrises
These destinations are also accessible by train or bus, and make great add-ons to your Korea itinerary.
If you want more detailed guides like this, check out our post on How to Use Korean Public Transport as a Foreigner or follow us for weekly travel tips.