Korea T-money Guide, How to Get Bus to Subway Transfer Discounts

Don’t overpay for short rides.

Korea’s public transport system is fast, clean, and affordable - but only if you know how to use it right.

 

 

One missed tap or late transfer can cost you double.

The secret? A single T-money card and smart timing.

This guide shows you how to getbus → subway transfer discounts, step by step.

 

Why One Card Matters

Korea uses a unified fare system.

Whether you're in Seoul, Busan, or Incheon, a T-money card tracks your trip and applies transfer discounts automatically - but only if you tap correctly and transfer within the time limit. 🔗(inmykorea.com)

 

Step-by-Step, How to Get the Bus → Subway Discount

1️⃣ Get the right card.
Buy a T-money (or compatible Cashbee) card at convenience stores like CU, GS25, or 7-Eleven, or at any subway station.

You can top it up in-store or at a ticket machine.

The card works nationwide on buses, subways, and even taxis.

 

2️⃣ Tap correctly.
Always tap your card when you get on and off the bus.

In the subway, tap at both entry and exit gates.

Missing a tap means the system won’t register your transfer, and you’ll lose your discount. (🔗Trazy Travel Blog)

 

3️⃣ Transfer within the allowed time.
As of 2025, the standard transfer window is 30 minutes.

During late-night hours (9 p.m.–7 a.m.), it extends to 60 minutes.

That means you must tap into your next ride - bus or subway - within that window to receive the reduced integrated fare. (🔗FindYourMIR 2025 Transit Update)

 

4️⃣ Don’t reboard the same bus or station.
Transferring to the same bus number or re-entering the same subway gate doesn’t count as a new transfer.

The system flags it as a repeat ride, and you’ll pay a new base fare.

 

🎥 Suggested Video

 

“Watch: how to tap correctly on buses and subway gates.”

Real App Example, How to Check Transfer Time

Let’s say you’re going from Hongdae to Gangnam. Open KakaoMap, enter your route, and it shows:

• Estimated fare: ₩1,650
• Transfer point: Line 2 
• Remaining transfer time: 35~40 minutes

This helps you avoid missing the discount window and plan smarter.

 

Pro Tips for Everyday Use

💡 Keep enough balance.

If your card runs out of credit mid-transfer, the system can’t process your discount.

Keep at least ₩5,000 balance for smooth travel.

 

💡 Use apps to plan efficiently.

Apps like KakaoMap or Naver Map (English available) show exact routes, fares, and whether your transfer qualifies for the discount.

You can easily check how much time remains before your 30-minute window expires.

 

💡 Try alternative passes.

In 2025, cities like Seoul and Busan are testing climate-friendly unlimited passes (so-called K-Pass) that allow multiple rides per day.

If you commute often, compare your average daily rides to see if it’s cheaper than pay-per-trip transfers.

(🔗JoongAng Daily 2025)

 

FAQ

Q. What happens if I forget to tap?
You’ll be charged the full fare and lose the transfer benefit.

Q. Can I use the same card for multiple people?
No. Each rider needs their own card for transfer tracking.

Q. How many transfers are allowed?
Up to 4 transfers per trip, as long as each is within the time window.

Q. What if I lose my T-money card?
Buy a new one. Unfortunately, balance recovery is only possible for registered cards.

 

Ride Smart, Save Daily

Summary Box

• 🪪 Get a T-money card
• 📲 Tap in/out correctly
• ⏱ Transfer within 30 mins (60 at night)
• 🚫 Avoid same route reboarding
• 📱 Use apps to plan smarter

 

Getting the transfer discount in Korea is simple once you know the system.

Buy a T-money card, tap in and out correctly, and make sure your next ride starts within 30 minutes (or 60 at night).

This small habit can save you thousands of won each month.

Whether you’re a student, an expat, or a traveler, understanding Korea’s integrated transport system means smoother commutes—and more money left for what really matters.

 

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📰 Related Article: “2025 Korean Subway Tips for Travelers – Free Transfers, Fares & Apps”