If you're visiting Korea, getting a T-money card should be the first thing you do after landing. It works on virtually all public transport nationwide and saves you the hassle of buying individual tickets.
What is T-money?
T-money is a rechargeable prepaid transport card used across Korea. It works on subways, city buses, intercity buses, and most taxis in Seoul and other major cities. You tap in and tap out, and the fare is automatically deducted.
Where to Buy
You can buy a T-money card at:
- Any convenience store (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven, Emart24) — including those at Incheon Airport
- Subway station vending machines (T-money branded)
- Some tourist information centres
Cost: The card itself costs ₩3,000 (about $2.25 USD). You then add credit to use it.
How to Top Up
Load money onto your card at:
- Convenience store counters — just hand the card and cash to the cashier
- Subway station vending machines with a T-money logo
- Some bank ATMs
You can load anywhere from ₩1,000 to ₩90,000 at a time. Start with ₩20,000–30,000 for a few days of travel.
How to Use It
Simply tap the card on the yellow T-money reader when boarding and again when exiting public transport. You'll hear a beep and see your remaining balance on the screen.
On taxis, tap on the reader on the payment terminal when you arrive at your destination.
Transfer Discounts
One of the best features of T-money: if you transfer between subway and bus (or bus and bus) within 30 minutes, you get a discounted fare. This only works with T-money — not with cash or single-trip tickets.
Getting a Refund
If you have remaining balance when leaving Korea, you can get a refund at convenience stores or subway station customer service centres. Note that the ₩3,000 card deposit is non-refundable, but you'll get back any remaining credit (minus a small processing fee for amounts over ₩30,000).
Alternatives
- Korea Pass card: A tourist-specific version with the same functionality, sometimes easier to find at airport tourist info desks
- Mobile T-money: If your phone supports NFC, you can set up a digital T-money via certain apps — but the physical card is simpler for most visitors
Quick Tips
- Always check your balance before long journeys — if it runs out mid-trip you can top up at any convenience store
- Keep the card separate from credit cards to avoid confusion at the reader
- T-money works in Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Incheon, Gwangju, and most other cities
