Korail Pass: how the tourist train pass in Korea works

Korail Pass: all about the tourist pass for train travel in South Korea
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Travel all over Korea by train with the Korail Pass

If you are planning a multi-stop trip across South Korea and want to explore the country in total comfort, the Korail Pass is one of the most useful travel passes you can get. For example, if you plan to travel between Seoul, Busan, Gyeongju, Andong, Daegu, or other destinations, this pass is a great way to save money on train fares. The Korail Pass is a special subscription pass designed exclusively for foreign tourists that allows unlimited travel on the Korean rail network for a set period of time. With it, you can easily move from city to city without the hassle of buying individual tickets each time.

It’s ideal for both short trips and longer journeys, giving you access to fast and modern trains such as the KTX trains, making travel across Korea smooth and convenient. Before purchasing, however, it’s important to understand the different types of passes available and which trains they cover, so you can choose the one that best fits your itinerary.

Types of Korail Pass: Consecutive Pass and Select Pass (Flexible)

The Korail Pass comes in two main options, designed to fit different travel styles and needs:

  1. Consecutive Pass: this pass allows unlimited travel on all trains in the Korail network for a set number of consecutive days. You can choose between 3-day or 5-day consecutive passes. For example, if you activate a 3-day pass on Monday, it will remain valid only for Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.

  2. Select Pass (Flexible): if you prefer more flexibility, the Select Pass lets you choose which days to travel within a longer time frame. Available in 2-day or 4-day options to be used within 10 days, this pass is perfect if you plan to spend more time in certain cities or want freedom in planning your itinerary.

For groups, there is also the Saver option, available for both pass types, designed for 2 to 5 people traveling together on the same trains. It offers a small discount compared to individual tickets, making it ideal for friends or families. Remember that the Korail Pass is personal, non-transferable, and must be used only by the person whose name appears on it. Also, children under 6 years old can travel free of charge.
Whichever option you choose, keep in mind that the Korail Pass is named and cannot be lent or given to another person. In addition, children under the age of 6 travel free of charge.

Types of trains

The Korail Pass gives you access to a wide range of trains across South Korea’s railway network. Here are the types of trains included:
  • KTX (Korea Train Express): high-speed trains that reach up to 305 km/h, ideal for quick and comfortable trips between major cities such as Seoul, Busan, Daegu, and Gyeongju.
  • ITX-Saemaeul (InterCity Train eXpress): modern intercity trains traveling at about 165 km/h, perfect for medium-distance routes.
  • Mugunghwa: slower trains with more frequent stops, including small towns and local stations. A good choice if you want to travel at a slower pace and explore lesser-known places.
  • Scenic trains: for a unique experience, you can also ride special tourist trains that pass through some of Korea’s most beautiful landscapes:
    -Central Inland Circle Train (O-Train): departs from Seoul’s Yongsan Station and covers a 250-kilometer scenic loop.
    -Baekdu-daegan Valley Train (V-Train): runs between Buncheon and Daegan through mountain valleys.
    -West Gold Train (G-Train): a luxury train connecting Seoul’s Yongsan Station to Iksan, crossing the west coast.
    -South Coast Train (S-Train): takes you through the southernmost parts of Korea.
    -Jeongseon Arirang Train (A-Train): famous for stunning views of the Jeongseon region.
    -Rail Cruise Haerang: Korea’s only hotel train.
    -Sea Train: scenic coastal trains running along the southern and eastern coasts.
    You can find the full list of Korail scenic trains on Visit Korea website.
Note: the Korail Pass cannot be used on SRT high-speed trains, AREX (airport trains), subways in Seoul or other cities, and some local/private rail services.

How to make seat reservations on trains

Once you have purchased your Korail Pass, it is essential to reserve your seat on the trains before you travel. While the pass allows unlimited travel, it does not automatically guarantee a seat. Reservations can be made in two ways:

  1. Online at the Korail website: go to the Korail official website, open the "My Ticket" section, and use the pass number provided to select your route and train. This way, you can secure your seat in advance and travel stress-free. Seat reservations open up to one month before your travel date.
  2. Directly at the station: you can also reserve your seat in person at the Travel Center of the main railway stations in Korea. Simply show your Korail Pass and specify the route you want. Keep in mind that reservations cannot be made at ticket vending machines.

Booking in advance is highly recommended during weekends and peak season, as the most popular trains often sell out quickly. If no seats are available, you can still travel with a standing ticket. You can also change or cancel reservations online if your plans change.

How to purchase the Korail Pass and how much it costs

Purchase the Korail Pass online is simple, but there are a few things to keep in mind. It can be purchased directly from the Korail official website, but the process can sometimes be complicated if you do not have a Korean credit card, as payments may be blocked. Alternatively, many travelers prefer buying it through Trazy, a Korean booking platform with a much easier purchasing process. Trazy often offers exclusive promotions, such as discount coupons for your first purchase.

Remember to always carry your passport when reserving your seat and also when boarding the train, as it may be required to verify your identity.

How much does the Korail Pass cost? The price depends on your age and whether you are traveling solo or in a group. The "Saver" option is designed for groups of 2 to 5 people, and the discounted fare applies to each individual in the group. The number of travelers must be specified at the time of purchase.

  • -Flexible Pass – 2 days:
    -Adult (from 28 years old): €91.10
    -Youth (13 to 27 years old): €73
    -Children (6 to 12 years old):: €45.90
    -Saver: €84.10
  • Flexible Pass – 4 days:
    -Adult (from 28 years old): €162.70
    -Youth (13 to 27 years old): €130
    -Children (6 to 12 years old): €81.30
    -Saver: €155.80
  • Consecutive Pass – 3 days:
    -Adult (from 28 years old): €114.70
    -Youth (13 to 27 years old): €91.80
    -Children (6 to 12 years old): €57.70
    -Saver: €107.80
  • Consecutive Pass – 5 days:
    -Adult (from 28 years old): €169.70
    -Youth (13 to 27 years old): €135.60
    -Children (6 to 12 years old): €84.80
    -Saver: €162.70

If you are planning a trip to Korea visiting multiple cities and need both flexibility in travel and a way to save money, the Korail Pass is undoubtedly an option to consider, especially if you plan to move between cities using the convenience of KTX high-speed trains.

On the official Korail website you will find all the Korail Pass information here. If you want to purchase it instead, simply click the button on this page and use the convenient and reliable Trazy.