If you’re planning to travel around Korea by train, the KTX (Korea Train Express) and ITX (Intercity Train Express) offer some of the most convenient, fast, and scenic options. The KTX is Korea’s high-speed rail network, connecting major cities like Seoul, Busan, Daejeon, and Gwangju in a matter of hours. The ITX, while slower than KTX, provides comfortable and affordable access to medium-distance destinations, including scenic and rural regions.
But one of the most common questions from international travelers is:
Where do I actually book KTX or ITX tickets in English, safely and officially?
Many blogs mention apps or agents, but for the best prices, seat choices, and peace of mind, it’s always better to use official Korean train platforms. This guide will walk you through exactly where and how to book your tickets—no VPN, no third-party markups, and no confusion.
What Are KTX and ITX Trains?
Before diving into booking platforms, let’s quickly distinguish the train types.
KTX (Korea Train Express)
Korea’s bullet train, running at speeds of up to 305 km/h (190 mph). It connects major cities through four main lines: Gyeongbu (Seoul–Busan), Honam (Seoul–Gwangju), Jeolla (Seoul–Yeosu), and Gangneung (Seoul–Gangneung).ITX (Intercity Train Express)
Slower but comfortable regional trains, such as ITX-Saemaeul and ITX-Cheongchun. Often used for destinations like Chuncheon, Jeonju, or Andong.
Both are run by KORAIL, Korea’s national railway operator.
Best Way to Book: LetsKorail Official Website (English Version)
LetsKorail is the official English-language ticketing site provided by KORAIL. You can book all types of trains here, including KTX, ITX-Saemaeul, and Mugunghwa trains.
Features:
Full booking in English
Real-time availability
Seat selection
Credit card payment with foreign-issued cards
Reservation confirmation via email
Cancel/change options (conditions apply)
How to Use:
Go to the official website linked above.
Choose your departure and arrival stations (e.g., “Seoul” to “Busan”).
Select your preferred date and time.
Choose the train (KTX or ITX).
Input passport information and email address.
Pay with a credit card and receive a printable ticket or QR code.
Tip: KTX tickets open 1 month in advance, and they do sell out during weekends or holidays, so booking early is wise.
KorailTalk Mobile App (Available in English)
App Name: KorailTalk
Available on: Android and iOS
Language support: Korean and English (auto-switches based on your phone language)
While the website works well for advance planning, the KorailTalk mobile app is useful for checking last-minute tickets, viewing train schedules, or changing reservations on the go.
Features:
Same booking system as LetsKorail
Mobile ticket display (no need to print)
Push notifications and travel reminders
Loyalty point integration (if you create a KORAIL account)
Important: While the app’s interface is user-friendly, you may need a Korean phone number to register a full account, especially for managing multiple tickets or setting up alerts. However, guest booking and mobile tickets work without an account for one-time users.
Booking Tickets from Overseas – What You Need to Know
When booking KTX or ITX tickets from outside Korea, keep the following in mind:
You don’t need a Korean ID: Passport number and email are enough.
You can book round-trip or one-way: No domestic residency requirement.
You can board with a printed ticket or mobile QR code: No physical ticket pickup required.
You must cancel at least 1 hour before departure to get a full or partial refund.
Prices are fixed: No haggling, and tickets cost the same for foreigners as locals.
There are discounts for early booking or late-night trains, which apply automatically.
Other Official Booking Options
While LetsKorail is the main site, there are a few other official platforms worth noting.
Korail Membership Site (Korean Only)
Website: main Korean homepage
This offers loyalty points, advanced booking, and pass purchase.
Recommended only for long-term residents or Korean speakers.
Korea Rail Pass (KR PASS)
Website: CLICK
This is a multi-day unlimited train pass for foreigners, similar to Japan’s JR Pass.
Valid only for tourists (must show passport)
Covers KTX and ITX trains
Must be booked before arriving in Korea
Options: 1, 3, 5, or 7 consecutive or flexible days
If you’re planning to travel to 2–3 cities in a few days (e.g., Seoul–Busan–Gyeongju–Seoul), the KR Pass can save you a lot, especially during high season.
Why You Should Avoid Third-Party Booking Sites
There are many global train booking websites (like Rail Ninja or Klook) that claim to sell Korean train tickets. While some are legitimate, they often:
Charge hidden service fees
Do not offer real-time availability
Can’t guarantee specific seat choices
Don’t support easy refunds or changes
For best results, always use LetsKorail or KorailTalk, as you’ll deal directly with the operator and avoid any issues at the station.
Useful Station Names in English Booking Systems
When booking tickets in English, make sure to use the correct spellings for stations. Some cities have multiple stations, so always double-check.
| City | Major Station for Booking |
|---|---|
| Seoul | Seoul Station |
| Busan | Busan Station |
| Gyeongju | Singyeongju Station (for KTX) |
| Daejeon | Daejeon Station |
| Jeonju | Jeonju Station |
| Gangneung | Gangneung Station |
| Suwon | Suwon Station |
| Incheon | Incheon Station (not airport) |
Plan Your Trip with Confidence Using the Official Platforms
Whether you’re heading to Busan for a beach weekend, exploring Jeonju’s Hanok Village, or visiting friends in Daejeon, Korea’s rail system is one of the best ways to get around the country—safe, fast, clean, and on time.
By using LetsKorail and the KorailTalk app, you can book everything in English, track your train, and manage your trip with zero hassle.
No need for third-party agents, no need for translations—just the official links, in English, straight from KORAIL. Now all you have to do is show up at the station and enjoy the ride.