Busan Metro Guide for Tourists: Lines, Tickets & Operating Hours

The Busan Metro is the easiest way to get around South Korea’s second-largest city. Busan is spread out along the coast, but the metro connects beaches, markets, shopping streets, and cultural landmarks efficiently.

For travellers from Singapore, the Busan Metro feels very familiar — it is clean, safe, affordable, and easy to use, much like the MRT back home.

With English signs, colour-coded lines, and clear maps, you can explore Busan confidently even if you don’t speak Korean.

This guide explains how the Busan Metro works, how to buy tickets, and useful tips so you can travel around the city smoothly.

Busan Metro Operating Hours

The Busan Metro runs daily and covers most tourist areas, making it ideal for both sightseeing and evening outings.

Note: Exact first and last train times may vary by line and station.

How to Buy Metro Tickets in Busan

Getting around Busan by metro is simple, whether you are staying for a few days or a full week.

Single Ride Ticket

• Best if you only take a few trips
• Buy from ticket machines at any station
• Machines have English language options
• Fares usually range from ₩1,300–₩1,700 (S$1.10-S$1.50) depending on distance
  

Transport Card (T-money / Cashbee)

• Best for multiple days and frequent travel
• Can be bought at convenience stores and metro stations
• Works on metro, buses, and some taxis
• Tap in and tap out like using EZ-Link in Singapore
  

Most travellers prefer T-money because it is faster, easier, and works across different transport systems in Korea.

Busan Metro Ticket Prices 

Busan Metro is very affordable, even for first-time travellers from Singapore. Below is a simple guide with estimated prices converted to Singapore Dollars (S$).

💡 Exchange rate used: 1,000 KRW ≈ S$1.00 (rounded for easy understanding). Actual rates may vary slightly.

Single Ride Tickets

Using a T-money Transport Card

Using a T-money or Cashbee card is cheaper and more convenient than buying single tickets.

T-money Card Cost

• Card purchase: ₩2,500–₩4,000 (approx S$2.50–S$4.00)
• Top-up amount: From ₩1,000 (about S$1.00)
  

Main Busan Metro Lines Tourists Use

Busan has several lines, but most visitors mainly use the following:

Helpful Tips for First-Time Busan Metro Users

Using the Busan Metro is very similar to taking the MRT in Singapore, but a few local tips can make your journey even smoother and less stressful.

1. Download an Offline Metro Map

Even though most stations have good signage, having an offline Busan Metro map on your phone helps when mobile data is slow or unavailable. You can quickly check line colours, station names, and transfer points without the internet.

2. Use Naver Map or KakaoMap

Google Maps is not always accurate in Korea. For better route planning and real-time train information, use Naver Map or KakaoMap. They show the fastest metro routes and the best exits to use.

3. Follow Exit Numbers Carefully

Busan stations can be very large, especially at Seomyeon and Haeundae. Always follow the exit numbers shown in Naver Map or station signs to avoid long walks and wrong directions.

4. Avoid Peak Hours if Possible

Weekday mornings (7:00–9:00 AM) and evenings (6:00–8:00 PM) are very crowded, especially in business areas. Travel during late morning or early afternoon for a more comfortable ride.

5. Stand on the Correct Side of Escalators

In Busan, locals stand on the right and walk on the left. Keeping to this rule helps you move smoothly and avoid blocking others.

6. Keep Your T-money Card Ready

Have your transport card in hand before reaching the gantry. Tapping in and out quickly keeps traffic flowing, just like at MRT stations in Singapore.

7. Check Last Train Times Every Night

Each line has a different last train time. Missing the last train may mean taking a taxi, which can be expensive in Busan at night.

8. Look for English Signs and Colour Codes

All metro lines are colour-coded and stations have English names. Pay attention to platform direction signs to make sure you board the correct train.

Top Hotels Near Busan Metro Stations

Staying near a metro station in Busan saves time, avoids traffic, and makes it easy to explore beaches, markets, and shopping districts.

Paradise Hotel Busan

Located just steps from Haeundae Station (Line 2), this beachfront hotel is ideal for travellers who want to enjoy Busan’s most famous beach while staying well connected to the metro.

Highlights:

• Direct access to Haeundae Beach
• Luxury rooms with sea views
• Easy metro access to Seomyeon & Gwangan

Lotte Hotel Busan

Situated next to Seomyeon Station (Line 1 & 2), this hotel is in Busan’s main shopping and entertainment district. Perfect for first-time visitors who want everything nearby.

Highlights:

• Connected to Seomyeon underground mall
• Central location for food & shopping
• Direct metro access to major attractions

Aventree Hotel Busan

Just a short walk from Nampo Station (Line 1), this hotel places you near Busan’s traditional markets and street food areas.

Highlights:

• Close to Jagalchi Fish Market & BIFF Square
• Comfortable, modern rooms
• Easy access to coastal attractions

Hotel Foret Premier Seomyeon

Near Seomyeon Station (Line 1 & 2), this modern hotel is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shopping streets.

Highlights:

• Central nightlife & dining area
• Stylish, comfortable rooms
• Great value for money

Conclusion

The Busan Metro is the most convenient way to explore the city. With clear maps, frequent trains, and English signage, it is perfect for first-time visitors from Singapore.

Just get a T-money card, learn the main lines, and you’ll be able to travel around Busan smoothly while saving time and money.