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Mastering Seoul's Transport System: Bus Colors, Transfer Discounts, and The Pink Seat

· 3 min read
Kai Miller
Kai Miller
Cultural Explorer & Photographer

Seoul's public transportation system is a marvel of engineering. It is clean, cheap, on time, and covers every inch of the city. But to use it like a local (and save money), you need to understand the "Hwanseung" (Transfer) system.

Stop taking taxis. Here is how to navigate Seoul like a pro.

Mastering Seouls Transport System: Bus Colors, Transfer Discounts, and The Pink Seat

1. The Hwanseung (Transfer) System​

In Seoul, the bus and subway act as one unified network.

  • The Rule: You can transfer between Bus -> Subway or Bus -> Bus for FREE.
  • The Condition: You must transfer within 30 minutes (1 hour after 9 PM).
  • The Mistake: You MUST TAP OUT when you exit the bus. If you forget to tap your card on the reader by the rear door, you will be charged double on your next ride.

2. Decoding the Bus Colors​

Bus colors are not for decoration. They tell you where the bus goes:

  • Blue (Ganseon): The "Main Line". These buses run long distances across the city on major roads. They are fast and reliable.
  • Green (Jiseon): The "Feeder". These are shorter routes that weave through neighborhoods to connect you to a subway station.
  • Red (Gwangyeok): The "Express". These connect Seoul to satellite cities (like Bundang). They are more expensive and standing is illegal (for safety).
  • Yellow (Sunhwan): "Circular" loops, primarily around Namsan Tower.

3. Subway Hacks​

  • Fast Transfer: Look at the screen on the platform. It will say something like "Fast Transfer: 5-3". This means if you are in Car 5, Door 3, you will step out right in front of the escalator to your connecting line.
  • Rush Hour: Avoid Line 9 Express at 8 AM. It is nicknamed the "Hell Train" for a reason.

4. The Unwritten Rules (Etiquette)​

  • The Pink Seat: Every subway car has pink seats at the end. These are for pregnant women. Even if the train is empty, do not sit there. Locals will judge you silently (or loudly).
  • The Silver Seat: The ends of the car are for the elderly. Leave them be.
  • Backpacks: Wear them on your front ("Turtle Style") in crowded trains to make space.

5. App Battle: Naver vs Kakao​

  • Naver Map: The best all-rounder. Excellent walking directions and shows if a bus is "Crowded", "Normal", or "Empty".
  • KakaoMetro: The best UI for just the subway.

Seoul moves fast. With a T-Money card in hand and this guide in mind, you can keep up.