Master the Seoul Subway – Veteran Tips for Seoul’s Subway

[New Comer Quick Tip] – Master the Seoul Subway with Line-Specific Maps

The Seoul subway system is extensive and convenient, but it can sometimes be confusing. There’s so many subway lines in Korea, and for many places you’ll have to find a transfer point. Fear not, the Seoul subway system has made it extremely easy for veterans and new comers to Korea alike to see where to transfer. Just look at any subway map, ubiquitous in all subway stations in Korea, and play a game of connect the dots.

But the Seoul subway has made it even more convenient for subway riders. There are line-specific maps (see picture above), different than the subway maps that show the entire Seoul subway system. These are only found on the platforms of subway stations. These specialty maps will show you the most efficient way to transfer, telling you which train car to get in so that you’ll have the easiest and quickest transfer. It’ll even tell you how long it’ll take to your destination so you can figure out how many rounds of Bejeweled you can squeeze in!

Tip 1: These line-specific maps are only found on the protective walls separating the train from the platform.
Tip 2: Not sure which train car you’re in front of? Just look down!
Tip 3: The subways will announce major commuter stops in English, Japanese and Chinese.

Language Tip:
환승 (hwanseung) means “transfer”
갈아타다 (garatada) means “to transfer”