Getting Around in Busan

The most convenient way of getting around in Busan is by using public transport. Although Busan isn’t nearly as congested as Seoul, there can be significant traffic jams closer to the popular beach areas, so most expats choose public transport over owning a car.

The subway system is smaller than in Seoul, but it’s still extensive and an excellent way to get across the city conveniently and affordably. Public buses are another efficient way to get around. Street signs and subway signs in Busan are usually written in both English and Korean.

Public transport in Busan

Expats can easily take advantage of the integrated public transport system in Busan. It’s possible to get almost anywhere in the city by using the subway or bus. It’s also inexpensive, and the city offers a rechargeable T-money card. Transport rates are lower with the card than purchasing a single-ride ticket. The card can be used for both the subway and bus systems, and even in some taxis.

Metro

The subway system in Busan is extensive and can be used to get around most of the city. Passengers can buy single-trip tickets from vending machines at any subway station. That said, the T money card, which can be purchased at subway stations and some shops, is more convenient for those who regularly use the subway. Another advantage of the T-money card is that it can be used on all subway systems throughout Korea, making inter-city travel highly accessible.

Buses

Busan has been gradually introducing eco-friendly buses to its fleet, with plans to replace hundreds of diesel and compressed natural gas buses with hydrogen-powered vehicles in the coming years.

Smaller green or blue buses only travel in their home neighbourhoods, while larger buses travel longer distances throughout the city. Major bus stops will have an electronic board showing which routes pass through the stop and when the next bus will arrive. Passengers pay when they get onto the bus with their T money cards, or they can use cash.

Taxis in Busan

Taxis in Busan are incredibly convenient and not too hard to come by. It’s possible to hail a cab from the street or through Kakao T, a local taxi-hailing app. All taxis run on a meter, and expats can pay their fare either with a credit card, a local bank card or in cash. It’s also sometimes possible to use a T-money card to pay for a trip if the passenger swipes it at the start and end of the journey, although many drivers will tell you it doesn’t work. Make sure to carry a backup card or cash.

Many drivers don’t speak English well, so it’s always a good idea to have the address or destination written down in Korean to show the driver. Some taxis advertise a free call-in interpretation service, which English-speaking passengers can use to explain where they want to go.

Driving in Busan

While Busan may be home to often confusing access, winding and mountain roads, driving in the city is largely safe and enjoyable as most drivers and pedestrians keenly follow road rules. That said, purchasing and driving a vehicle in the city will be largely unnecessary and more inconvenient, since Busan has an efficient and comprehensive public transport system.

Expats who choose to drive will need to contend with the costs of maintaining and running a car, as well as the process of securing a South Korean driver’s licence. Alternatively, those looking to explore some of Busan’s hidden gems may benefit from hiring a car rather than buying one.

Transport and Driving in South Korea

Cycling in Busan

Busan’s hilly terrain presents some challenges for cyclists, but expats can still get around the city by bike. It is recommended that expats cycle on the shoulder of the road to avoid pedestrians, mopeds and parked cars. Busan offers free public bike rentals and repairs throughout the city.

Expats can rent bicycles for a maximum of two hours and return them to one of the shops sprinkled in the city. Expats will also have to consider the city’s hilly nature. If they are prepared to break out a sweat, cycling is a good and free option for getting around in Busan.

Air travel in Busan

As the second-largest city in South Korea, Busan is home to Gimhae International Airport, which serves over 15 airlines. This airport hosts both domestic and international flights, primarily serving East Asian destinations. Travelling by air across South Korea is one of the fastest ways to get around the country.