T-money Card: Your Transport Card
Everything you need to know about Korea's T-money transport card — where to buy it, how to top it up, and how to use it on the subway and bus.
What is a T-money card?
T-money is a rechargeable transport card used on the subway, buses, and even in many convenience stores and taxis across Korea. You tap it on the reader when you get on and when you get off, and the fare is taken from the card automatically. It is much easier than buying a single-journey ticket every time, and the fare is slightly cheaper than a paper ticket.
Where to buy and top up
You can buy a T-money card at convenience stores (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven) and at subway stations. Topping up is done with cash at the same convenience stores or at the charging machines in subway stations. Cards cost a few thousand won, and you can load any amount you like — start with 20,000 to 30,000 won for a few days of travel.
How to use it on the subway and bus
Tap your card on the reader at the subway gate when you enter and again when you exit — the fare is calculated by distance. On a bus, tap when you board and again when you get off, so the system charges the correct fare. If you forget to tap when getting off a bus, you may be charged the maximum fare, so make it a habit.
Transfers and discounts
T-money gives you free or discounted transfers between the subway and buses if you change within 30 minutes. This makes it much cheaper than paying for each ride separately. Keep your card in a separate pocket or card wallet, because tapping two cards at once can cause an error.
Getting a refund
If you have money left on your card when you leave Korea, you can get a refund at convenience stores, minus a small fee, or at the T-money refund machines at major subway stations. You can also keep the card as a souvenir — it works on your next trip.