Going from Seoul to Busan? Compare transport options – from KTX trains, buses, flights, cars or taxis. Plus, extra tips on must-see spots and where to stay in Busan

Travelling from Seoul to Busan is more than just a journey—it’s an experience that showcases the best of South Korea. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveller or a luxury seeker, there’s an option for you.

From the fast KTX  Seoul to Busan train to scenic road trips by car, we have all the details. The Seoul to Busan train is a top choice, with KTX tickets providing a quick and comfortable ride straight to Busan Station.

Ready to plan your adventure? Let’s explore the best ways to travel, plus tips on booking and must-see stops.

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Why travel from Seoul to Busan?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how to get there, let’s talk about why Busan is worth the trip. As South Korea’s second-largest city, Busan is a vibrant coastal destination known for its stunning beaches, fresh seafood, and laid-back vibe. Think of it as the Miami of South Korea—but with more temples and fewer alligators.

Whether you’re exploring the colourful Gamcheon Culture Village, relaxing on Haeundae Beach, or indulging in a seafood feast at Jagalchi Market, Busan has something for everyone.

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Guide to travelling from Seoul to Busan:

Method of transportation	Estimated Time	Cost (Starting From)	Highlights
KTX Train	2 hours 40 mins	~S$55.30 / KRW 59,800	Fast, reliable, scenic views
Flight	1 hour	~S$55	Quick, but adds airport time
Express Bus	4.5 to 5 hours	~S$28 / KRW 30,000	Affordable, comfortable
Car (Rental)	5 to 6 hours	Depends but adds rental/day, fuel, and toll	Depends but it adds rental/day, fuel, and toll
Taxi	5 to 6 hours	~S$451 (depends on the ride-hailing app and surge timings)	Expensive, direct, private

*Train fares taken from Korail, Bus fares taken from Kobus, Flights from Google Flights

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1. Taking the Train: The Fastest and Most Popular Option

The KTX Seoul to Busan route is the most popular and convenient way to travel between the two cities, ideal for both locals and tourists. This high-speed rail service connects Seoul Station to Busan Station in just 2.5 to 3 hours, reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h.

With frequent departures from Seoul Station to Busan Station, the KTX offers a seamless, comfortable ride with minimal stops, allowing you to enjoy scenic views of Korea’s countryside along the way.

Image Credits: Visit Korea

Why Choose the KTX?

• Speed: You’ll be in Busan before you can finish your K-drama episode.
• Comfort: Spacious seats, clean cabins, and plenty of legroom.
• Scenic Views: Watch the Korean countryside whiz by as you relax.

How to Book KTX Tickets:

Booking KTX tickets is a breeze. You can reserve your seat online via the Korail website or app, or purchase tickets at the station. 

Pro tip: Book early, especially during peak travel seasons, to snag the best fares. A standard one-way ticket costs around KRW59,800 (~S$55), but discounts are available for children, seniors, and groups.

Highlights:

• Free Wi-Fi onboard for seamless internet access.
• Comfortable seats with ample legroom and reclining options.
• Food carts offering snacks, drinks, and Korean-style bento boxes.
• Dedicated luggage storage areas for large suitcases, making it easy for travellers.

Tips:

Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom season (March–April) and major holidays such as Chuseok.

Consider purchasing a KORAIL Pass if you plan to take multiple train rides, as it offers unlimited travel on KTX and other trains for a fixed period — great for those exploring beyond Busan.

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KTX vs. Regular Trains

Image Credits: Korea Trains

If you’re debating between the KTX and regular trains (Mugunghwa or ITX-Saemaeul), here’s a quick comparison:

KTX: The fastest option at 2 hours 15 minutes — ideal for those with a tight itinerary.

Regular trains: Take between 4.5 to 5.5 hours — a budget-friendly choice, with tickets starting from ~S$36 / KRW 40,000. While slower, they offer a more relaxed ride, often stopping at smaller towns along the way.

For most travellers, the KTX wins hands down — it’s fast, efficient, and comfortable — perfect for making the most of your time in Busan.

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2. By Flight: Quick but Less Scenic

If you’re looking for a quick and direct way to get from Seoul to Busan, flying is a good option. Several daily flights operate between Gimpo International Airport (GMP) in Seoul and Gimhae International Airport (PUS) in Busan, catering to both business and leisure travellers.

The flight itself takes about 1 hour, but when you factor in the time spent travelling to and from airports and going through security checks, it might not be much faster compared to the KTX.

Image Credits: Latest News – Visasat

Pros :

• Speed: Ideal for tight schedules.
• Frequent Flights: Multiple airlines operate this route daily.

Cons:

• Cost: Flights can be more expensive than the KTX, especially if booked last minute.
• Less Convenient: Gimpo Airport is farther from central Seoul than Seoul Station.

Tips for Booking Flights to Busan

Book your flight in advance to save money, and consider using budget carriers like Jeju Air or Air Busan.

Online: Use travel websites or airline apps to find the best deals.

Travel Agencies: If you prefer a more hands-on approach, visit a local travel agency for assistance.

Image Creidts: Within striking distance

Getting to and from the airports:

Gimpo International Airport (GMP): Easily accessible by Seoul Metro Line 5, 9, and the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) — about 30 minutes from downtown Seoul.

Gimhae International Airport (PUS): Offers seamless transport to the Busan city centre via the Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit (BGL) — taking 30-40 minutes to reach key areas like Seomyeon or Haeundae.

Pro Tips:

Arrive at Gimpo Airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your flight, especially during busy periods like public holidays or cherry blossom season.

If you want to save time, consider using self-check-in kiosks or mobile boarding passes offered by most airlines.

For those with an early morning flight, staying near Gimpo Airport the night before can ease your travel stress.

Flights vs. KTX:

While flights may seem faster, the total travel time — factoring in airport commutes, security checks, and waiting times — usually ends up being comparable to taking the KTX (which only takes 2 hrs 15 mins from station to station). Unless you’re catching a connecting flight or prefer air travel, the KTX often proves to be the more convenient and time-efficient choice.

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3. By Bus: Budget-Friendly and Scenic

Travelling from Seoul to Busan by bus is a budget-friendly and flexible option, with two main types of services: Express buses and Regular (intercity) buses. Whether you’re looking for a direct, comfortable ride or a cheaper, slower alternative, buses offer a great way to experience Korea’s scenic countryside.

Image Credits: Trazy Blog

Express Bus (고속버스 | Gosok Bus)

The express bus is the faster and more convenient choice for long-distance travel, running directly from Seoul Express Bus Terminal to Busan Central Bus Terminal without unnecessary stops.

• Duration: 4.5 to 5 hours (depending on traffic)
• Cost: Starting from ~S$27 / KRW 30,000 (standard class)
• Deluxe buses (Udong buses): Around ~S$41 – S$46 / KRW 45,000 – 50,000, offering more spacious seating, fewer passengers, and additional comfort.

Where to board:

• Seoul Express Bus Terminal (Gyeongbu Line) — Address: 194 Sinbanpo-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul
• Connected to Subway Lines 3, 7, and 9 (Exit 1 or 2)

Arrival:

• Busan Central Bus Terminal — Address: 133 Nopo-dong, Geumjeong-gu, Busan
• Located near Nopo Station on Busan Metro Line 1

Image Credits: Land Transport Guru

Booking:

• Reserve tickets online via the Kobus Official Site or purchase them at the terminal.
• It’s recommended to book ahead during busy seasons like cherry blossom season or public holidays.

Amenities:

• Reclining seats with adjustable headrests
• Charging ports for phones and tablets
• Wi-Fi (available on most deluxe buses)
• Rest stops for food, drinks, and bathroom breaks

Pro Tip: Take a late-night express bus (after 11 PM) to save on one night’s accommodation — ideal for budget travellers! You’ll arrive in Busan early in the morning, ready to explore.

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4. Regular (Intercity) Bus (시외버스 | Sioe Bus)

For those seeking a cheaper, slower option, intercity buses are also available. These buses typically make multiple stops along the way at smaller cities or towns, making the journey longer but more affordable.

• Duration: 5 to 6 hours
• Cost: Starting from ~S$18-23  / KRW 20,000–25,000 — the most budget-friendly way to travel

Image Credits: Korea By Bike

Where to board:

• Seoul Nambu Bus Terminal — Address: 247 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul
• Accessible via Subway Line 3 (Nambu Bus Terminal Station, Exit 5)

Arrival:

• Busan Sasang Bus Terminal — Address: 171 Gwaebeop-dong, Sasang-gu, Busan
• Connected to Sasang Station on Busan Metro Line 2

Booking:

Tickets can be purchased at the terminal — online booking is less common for intercity buses.

Amenities:

• Basic seating — less spacious than express buses
• Occasional rest stops — depending on the route
• No Wi-Fi — so bring a book or download entertainment in advance

Pro Tip: If you’re planning to visit smaller towns along the way, the intercity bus allows for flexible, hop-on-hop-off-style travel. Great for those with time to spare and a sense of adventure!

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Express vs. Regular Buses

Feature	Express Bus	Regular (Intercity) Bus
Duration	4.5–5 hours	5–6 hours
Cost	~S$27-46 / KRW 30–50k	~S$18-23 / KRW 20–25k
Booking	Online (Kobus) & terminal	Terminal only
Comfort	Reclining seats, Wi-Fi, charging ports	Basic seating, fewer amenities
Stops	Direct (Seoul–Busan)	Multiple stops

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4. By Driving: A Road Trip

If you’ve got time to spare and a sense of adventure, a road trip from Seoul to Busan is an exciting way to explore South Korea at your own pace. The drive typically takes about 4.5 to 5 hours via the Gyeongbu Expressway (Expressway 1) — the country’s longest and busiest highway — but the real charm lies in the freedom to stop whenever and wherever you want.

Image Credits; Brit Adventures

Why Choose a Road Trip?

• Ultimate Flexibility: Unlike trains or buses, driving lets you take spontaneous detours to visit charming towns, roadside food stalls (try hoeddeok or hotteok pancakes!), and hidden scenic viewpoints.
• Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations: Explore lesser-known stops along the way — perfect for uncovering hidden gems between Seoul and Busan.
• Scenic Routes: Cruise through Korea’s countryside, with rolling hills, rivers, and even coastal stretches if you venture off the main expressway.

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Must-See Stops Along the Way 🌿

Image Credits: TripAdvisor

1. Suwon (1 hour from Seoul)

• Famous for the Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Grab some Suwon galbi — their iconic marinated beef ribs.

2. Daejeon (2 hours from Seoul)

• Known for Yuseong Hot Springs — a quick soak will re-energize you for the road ahead.
• Stop by the Daejeon Observatory for panoramic views of the city.

3. Andong (3.5 hours from Seoul)

• Explore the Hahoe Folk Village, a preserved hanok village with 600 years of history.
• Taste Andong jjimdak — a savoury braised chicken dish.

4. Gyeongju (4 hours from Seoul)

• Dive into Korea’s ancient past with a visit to Bulguksa Temple and the Royal Tumuli Park.
• Perfect for history buffs and architecture lovers.

5. Ulsan (4.5 hours from Seoul)

• Relax at Taehwagang River Grand Park — especially beautiful in spring with blooming flowers.
• A great last stop before reaching Busan!

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Car Rental Options 🚙

• Lotte Rent-a-Car: The largest car rental company in Korea, with convenient pick-up points at Incheon Airport and Seoul Station.
• Hertz Korea: Offers English-language services and a range of vehicles — ideal for tourists.
• Socar: A popular app-based car-sharing service — great for short-term rentals or one-way trips.

Booking Tip: Reserve your car in advance, especially during peak seasons like spring (March–April) and autumn (September–November).

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Important Driving Tips 📜

Documents Needed:

• An International Driving Permit (IDP) (issued in your home country).
• Your home country’s driving license (must match the details on your IDP).
• Your passport (for ID verification when collecting the car).

Navigation:

• Use Naver Maps or KakaoMap — Google Maps has limited functionality in South Korea.
• Consider renting a Wi-Fi router or buying a Korean SIM card for real-time navigation and traffic updates.

Parking:

• In Busan, parking can be tricky, especially near tourist hotspots like Haeundae Beach or Jagalchi Market.
• Opt for public parking lots  — costs usually range from KRW 1,000–2,000 (~S$0.90-1.84 per hour)

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5. Taking a Taxi: For the Luxurious (or Desperate)

Yes, you can technically take a taxi from Seoul to Busan, but let’s be real—this is only for those with deep pockets or a serious aversion to public transport. If budget is not a concern, you can hire a taxi for a direct and comfortable ride from Seoul to Busan.

Image Credits: KKday

While it’s the most expensive option, it offers door-to-door service and the convenience of not having to navigate public transportation.

The ride will take around 4.5 hours and cost an estimated whopping KRW 400,000 (~S$368) to KRW 500,000 (~S$460) each way. Prices vary depending on the ride-hailing app, surge timings etc.

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Image Credits: Korea Travel Post

Why (and When) Would You Take a Taxi?

• Late-Night Travel: If you miss the last KTX train or express bus, a taxi might be your only option to get to Busan without waiting until morning.
• Door-to-Door Convenience: Ideal for travellers with lots of luggage, families with young children, or those who simply prefer direct, hassle-free transport.
• Group Travel: If you’re splitting the fare among 3 to 4 friends, the cost per person could be more reasonable
• Emergency Situations: Whether it’s an unexpected schedule change or a personal emergency, a taxi offers flexibility when time is of the essence.

Booking a Long-Distance Taxi 🚖

• KakaoTaxi App: The most popular ride-hailing app in Korea, similar to Grab or Uber. You can request regular, deluxe (black taxis), or van taxis for more space.
• Hotel Concierge: High-end hotels can arrange a long-distance taxi for you, often with drivers who speak basic English.
• Phone Booking: Some taxi companies accept phone bookings for intercity rides, though this may require a local SIM card or a Korean-speaking friend.

Tip: Always confirm the destination and fare estimate with the driver before starting the trip. While most taxis use a meter, it’s common to negotiate a flat rate for long-distance journeys.

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Where to Stay in Busan 🌊

No matter your travel style — whether you’re a budget backpacker, a mid-range explorer, or a luxury traveller — Busan has a wide range of accommodations to suit every pocket. Here are five options across all budgets:

Budget Stay:

1. Blue Backpackers Hostel

Image Credits: Booking.com

• Location: Seomyeon — a central district packed with restaurants, bars, and shopping spots.
• Price: From SGD 41 per night 
• Room types: Dormitory beds and private rooms
• Highlights: Cozy common areas perfect for meeting fellow travellers, free breakfast, laundry facilities, and helpful English-speaking staff.
• Why stay here: Ideal for solo travellers or those who want an affordable base with easy access to Busan’s metro system.

Tip: Check out Seomyeon’s nightlife — don’t miss out on a late-night Korean BBQ feast or a stop at a local pub!

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Mid-Tier Hotels:

2. Arban Hotel

Image Credits: Booking.com

• Location: Seomyeon — right in the heart of Busan’s shopping and food scene.
• Price: From SGD 80 per night
• Room types: Double and twin rooms with modern decor
• Highlights: Sleek, minimalist design, a rooftop terrace with city views, and walking distance to Seomyeon Subway Station (Line 1 & 2).
• Why stay here: Perfect for travellers who want stylish yet affordable comfort, with easy access to public transport.

Tip: Head up to the rooftop at night — the city lights of Busan’s downtown district make for a great backdrop.

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3. Hotel Foret Premier Nampo

Image credits: Expedia

• Location: Nampo-dong — close to the famous Jagalchi Fish Market and the bustling Gukje Market.
• Price: From SGD 111 per night
• Room types: Spacious rooms, some with sea views
• Highlights: Proximity to Busan’s top attractions, sea views from select rooms, and a cosy cafe in the lobby.
• Why stay here: Great for foodies and culture lovers — you’re steps away from tasting the freshest seafood at Jagalchi Market and exploring the historic streets of Nampo.

Tip: Wake up early to catch the morning bustle at Jagalchi Fish Market — it’s an experience like no other!

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Luxury Hotels:

4. Park Hyatt Busan

Image Credits: Hyatt

• Location: Haeundae — overlooking the stunning Busan Marina and near Dongbaek Island.
• Price: From SGD 375 per night
• Room types: Premium suites with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic harbour views.
• Highlights: Infinity pool, luxurious spa, world-class restaurants, and unbeatable views of the marina.
• Why stay here: If you’re looking for opulence and personalized service, this is the ultimate Busan luxury stay.

Tip: Book a sunset dinner at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Dining Room — the night view of the marina is memorable.

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5. The Westin Josun Busan

Image Credits: Booking.com

• Location: Haeundae — right on Haeundae Beach, Busan’s most famous beach.
• Price: From SGD 375 per night
• Room types: Beachfront rooms with private balconies.
• Highlights: Direct beach access, a top-tier wellness centre, and lavish in-room dining options.
• Why stay here: Perfect for honeymooners or anyone wanting to wake up to the sound of ocean waves — all while enjoying five-star hospitality.

Tip: Take a morning stroll along Haeundae Beach or explore the nearby Dongbaekseom Island trail for stunning coastal views.

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Bonus Tip: Where to Stay for Cherry Blossom Season 🌸

Image Credits: In My Korea

If you’re visiting Busan during the cherry blossom season (late March to early April), consider staying near Oncheoncheon Stream or Dalmaji Hill — these areas bloom beautifully and offer easy access to prime Sakura spots.

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The verdict

Travelling from Seoul to Busan offers a variety of transport options, each suited to different travel styles and budgets. Whether you prioritize speed, affordability, or flexibility, there’s a mode of transportation to suit your needs.

Fastest Way: Flights — perfect for a quick and hassle-free trip.
Most Convenient Option: KTX Trains — combines comfort, affordability, and an alternative mode of adventure.

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Travel from Seoul to Busan seamlessly

Image Credits: BucketListly

No matter how you choose to travel from Seoul to Busan, the journey is part of the adventure. Whether you take the fast KTX train, a scenic bus ride, a flexible road trip by car, a quick flight, or a comfy taxi, travelling from Seoul to Busan is an adventure in itself.

Each method of transportation offers its unique experiences and advantages, catering to all levels of budget and preferences. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to explore the vibrant and dynamic city of Busan!

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Happy travels!

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