Ah, South Korea. The land of sizzling KBBQ, beauty haven Olive Young, and K-pop groups like BTS and SEVENTEEN. For many travellers, it’s a bucket-list destination packed with culture, food, and unforgettable experiences.
But there’s one more thing Korea is famous for: its ultra-fast trains. Chugging at 330 kilometres per hour, the KTX can have you zooming from city to city in a snap. The best way to ride them? With the KORAIL Pass. Not sure what it is or how it works? Don’t worry, this guide has you covered from purchase to boarding.
What is the KORAIL Pass?
The KORAIL Pass (also known as the Korea Rail Pass or KR Pass) is your ticket to travel throughout the country, and it’s specifically designed for foreign tourists visiting South Korea. It is only available to tourists, meaning South Korean residents, citizens, and long-term visitors (over six months) can’t use it.
It offers unlimited rides in general seating for the entire duration of your pass, making it an easy and cost-effective way to city-hop. So, if you’re planning to visit Nami Island or Gyeongju, having this in your arsenal will make your trip a breeze.
What are the Types of KORAIL Passes?
Here’s a quick look at the three KR Pass types and which one fits your trip best:
Consecutive Pass (Day Consecutive Pass): Perfect for those with a jam-packed itinerary and who want to travel back-to-back. The Consecutive Pass allows unlimited train rides for 3 to 5 consecutive days.
Flexible Pass (Day Flexible Pass): For those who want to travel leisurely and enjoy exploring at their own pace, the Flexible Pass allows them to choose 2 to 4 travel days for unlimited train rides within a 10 day period.
Saver Pass Option: For families and friends travelling together with an identical travel itinerary, the Saver Pass option allows you to group up to 2 to 5 passengers and offers discounted rates. A Saver Pass can be either a Consecutive or a Flexible Pass.
And good news: depending on your age, you can get a cheaper pass. If you are travelling with a child aged 6-12 or a young adult (youth) aged 13-27, they can score a lower price on their KR Pass.
What Trains are Covered by the KORAIL Pass?
So, you want to hop on a ride to go to your holiday destination. Here’s a quick cheat sheet for your KORAIL Pass.
Train type | Speed / Service | Where it runs & what it’s good for |
|---|---|---|
KTX | High-speed (fastest) | Major cities such as Seoul-Busan and Seoul-Gwangju. Best for long-distance travel when you want the quickest journey. |
ITX (Saemaeul / Cheongchun) | Semi-fast | Regional routes and mid-range cities. Ideal for shorter trips, day tours, and reaching off-the-beaten-path destinations. |
Mugunghwa | Slower, frequent stops | Widest coverage, including small towns and rural areas. Perfect for scenic rides, budget travel, and a slower pace. |
Nuriro | Semi-express | Mainly the Jungang and Yeongdong Lines. Good for mid-speed travel between regional cities without too many stops. |
Scenic lines (S-Train / V-Train / O-Train / A-Train) | Leisure sightseeing | Coastal, mountain, and themed routes. Great for photography, seasonal views, and relaxed sightseeing rides. |
Note: The KORAIL Pass does not extend to metro subways and the SRT (Super Rapid Trains).
Where Can You Buy the KORAIL Pass?
There are a couple of ways to get your hands on a KORAIL Pass.
For a seamless online experience, book through Pelago and enjoy instant confirmations and group discounts. On top of that, getting your KORAIL Pass allows you to earn KrisFlyer miles with your purchase, which you can use to book flights or upgrade your seats. If you have any questions, you can also get in touch with English-speaking customer support.
You can also buy your KORAIL pass on their website, but take note that some international cards may not work.
Prefer to grab it when you touchdown? You can purchase the KR Pass directly from the KORAIL stations at Seoul Station, Busan Station, and Incheon Airport (T1).
How Much is the KORAIL Pass?
Pass Type | Adult (28+) | Youth (13-27) | Child (6-12) | Saver (2-5 pax) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
3-Day Consecutive | USD 124 | USD 99 | USD 62 | USD 118 |
5-Day Consecutive | USD 183 | USD 146 | USD 91 | USD 175 |
2-Day Flexible (Select) | USD 89 | USD 71 | USD 45 | USD 83 |
4-Day Flexible (Select) | USD 176 | USD 141 | USD 88 | USD 169 |
Note: Children below 6 years can travel free of charge and do not require the KR Pass, but must be travelling with at least one adult. Take note that the prices are subject to change and are accurate as of November 2025.
How do You Activate and Use the KORAIL Pass?
You can activate your pass online or at any designated KORAIL station. If activated online, you will receive a digital ticket and QR code. If you activate it at the station, they’ll hand you a physical ticket. You’ll use your ticket (either physical or digital) for boarding and seat bookings.
After activating it, it’s time to lock in your train seats for economy class. Here’s how:
First, head to the KORAIL website.
Insert your KORAIL Pass Number or your email address and your KORAIL pass confirmation.
Select your travel dates and check the train schedules.
Choose your preferred train, select your desired seats in economy class, and confirm your seats
Optional: If you aren’t comfortable doing this process online, you can also reserve seats at the Travel Centre of most major stations.
And you’re ready! Simply present your ticket (either digital or physical) and your valid passport as you climb aboard and roam around South Korea’s wonders by rail.
Note: If you need to change your travel plans before activation, you may be able to select a new date for your starting date or travel start date.
How do You Use the KORAIL Talk App?
Besides using the website to secure your seats, you can also utilise the KORAIL Talk App, which is available on both Android and iOS.
Curious about how it works? Here’s the rundown:
Download the KORAIL Talk App on your phone
Sign up, log in, or enter as a guest
Enter your KORAIL Pass number to link it to your account
Select the “KORAIL Pass” section and reserve your seats there
You can check your reserved tickets on the app, check real-time timetables for the trains, and check seat maps, so no need to always open the website.
Is the KR Pass Worth It?
So, is the KORAIL Pass worth your money? The short answer: yes, especially for inter-city travel.
With the KORAIL pass, you pay once instead of purchasing multiple individual tickets, which can easily stack up and cost you big bucks. With the pass, the more you ride, the more you save. And since the pass covers everything from high-speed KTX trains to slower scenic tourist lines and the Mugunghwa trains, it’s perfect for travellers who love squeezing in extra stops or last-minute plans.
Let's take a look at an example - say you want to visit Busan and Gyeongju in two days. Here's what you'd expect to pay if purchasing regular tickets compared to buying the KORAIL Pass.
Route Segment | Regular Tickets (KTX) | KORAIL Pass (Saver - 2-Day Flexible) |
|---|---|---|
Seoul to Busan | USD 44 | Included |
Busan to Gyeongju (via Singyeongju) | USD 32 | Included |
Gyeongju to Seoul | USD 32 | Included |
Total Cost | USD 108 | USD 83 |
Amount of Train Rides | 3 total | Unlimited within 2 days |
Train Types Covered | KTX only | KTX, ITX, Mugunghwa, Scenic Trains |
Note: These prices are correct as of November 2025 and may change in the future.
As you can see, if you’re travelling across different cities, the KORAIL Pass quickly pays for itself. You’ll spend less while enjoying unlimited travel for the duration of your pass.
What Popular Routes Can You Take With the KORAIL Pass?
Now that you know what the KR Pass is, let’s take a look at some of the most popular routes you can take from Seoul with your handy pass.
1. Seoul to Busan
It might not come as a surprise that Seoul to Busan is the most popular high-speed route. Busan has beaches, vibrant culture, and a laid-back coastal vibe that feels totally different from Seoul. Haeundae Beach is perfect for sunrise lovers, and Gamcheon Culture Village adds a splash of colour to any itinerary.
While in Busan, don’t forget to dive into all the fresh seafood you can get at Jagalchi Market.
Train type(s): KTX only
Ride time: 2 hours
Peak travel times: Friday evenings, weekend mornings, and the summer season (July-August)
2. Seoul to Gyeongju
Stepping into Gyeongju is like stepping into the ancient Silla kingdom.
To get to Gyeongju, you can ride the KTX or the Mugunghwa. The latter is highly recommended - Gyeongju is known as the “museum without walls,” meaning you can get a glimpse of history right from your train seat.
Once you're there, have a stroll around Anapji Pond, visit Bulguksa Temple, and rent a bike to ride around the palaces. If you’re a K-drama fan, you might recognise Shilla Mountain Park as one of the filming sites of Queen Seondeok.
Train type(s): KTX to Singyeongju or Mugunghwa to central Gyeongju
Ride time: 2 hours (KTX to Singyeongju) or 4 hours (Mugunghwa)
Peak travel times: Cherry blossom season (late March-early April) and autumn foliage season (late October-November)
3. Seoul to Yeosu
Instagram: @seokman_hwang on Instagram
If you love the ocean blue, you need to visit Yeosu. Yeosu translates to “beautiful waters,” so it’s no surprise the city is famous for its scenic coastline and delicious fresh seafood.
While in Yeosu, take a look at the panoramic sea views at the Jongpo Maritime Park and ride the famous Yeosu Cable Car over Dolsan Bay. If you’re a K-pop stan, Yeosu’s skyline might already be familiar to you. After all, it was featured in GOT7’s You Are music video.
Train type(s): KTX or ITX-Saemaeul
Ride time: 3 hours (KTX or ITX)
Peak travel times: Spring and summer weekends (Yeosu has several festivals during this time period)
4. Seoul to Gangneung
Gangneung is another coastal gem. However, there is another unique thing people flock to the city for: its vibrant coffee culture! If you’re someone on the hunt for the perfect brew, head over to Gangneung with your KR Pass.
After riding either the KTX, ITX, or Mugunghwa, chill out on Gyeongpo Beach, then sip a coffee on Anmok's café street. With roughly 40 cafés lined up in the street, it’s the perfect place for a coffee crawl.
Train type(s): KTX, ITX, or Mugunghwa
Ride time: 1 hour (KTX) or 5 hours (Mugunghwa)
Peak travel times: Summer and winter (for nearby ski resorts).
5. Seoul to Daegu
Instagram: @ployslittleatlas on Instagram
Daegu is one of the best places for history lovers. Not only does it have rich natural landscapes and cultural sites, but it is also known for its herbal medicine and flourishing textile industry.
Looking for a dose of traditional healing? Check out the Yangnyeongsi Medicine Market. For sweeping city views, head up to the 83 Tower. If you visit in October or November, you'll get to see the autumn leaves, and the foliage is something worth travelling for - especially if you want aesthetic photos from the ‘Gram.
Train type(s): KTX only
Ride time: 2 hours (KTX)
Peak travel times: Autumn (October-November) and during Daegu’s major festivals like the Chimac Festival (early July)
6. Seoul to Daejeon
Looking for some prime time relaxation? Are you visiting during the colder months and want to add something cosy to your winter itinerary? Use your KORAIL Pass to visit Daejeon, which is home to the Yuseong Hot Springs, one of South Korea’s most famous oncheon (hot springs).
Or perhaps you’re into science and technology. Dubbed “Asia’s Silicon Valley,” Daejeon is home to the National Science Museum and Expo Park, a popular spot for learning about tech.
Train type(s): KTX only
Ride time: 50 minutes
Peak travel times: Weekends, school holidays, and cherry blossom season near major parks.
7. Seoul to Jeonju
Photo: @titaritonga_ on Instagram
If you want a foodie adventure, check out Jeonju. Known as the birthplace of bibimbap (traditional Korean mixed rice dish), Jeonju is a designated UNESCO City of Gastronomy. It’s also known for its rich cultural heritage due to its connection to the Joseon Dynasty.
To experience authentic Korean culture, rent a hanbok (Korean traditional outfit) and wander through Jeonju Hanok Village. For a taste of South Korea’s finest, pop by Nambu Market.
Train type(s): KTX, ITX, or Mugunghwa
Ride time: 2 hours (KTX/ITX) or 3.5 hours (Mugunghwa)
Peak travel times: Spring weekends, October (for Jeonju Bibimbap Festival), and any long holiday (Hanok Village gets packed).
8. Seoul to Mokpo
Photo: @cherish_unni on Instagram
Mokpo is a port city known for its seafood and coastal scenery. And with the KORAIL Pass, you’re one step away from seeing it for yourself.
For a taste of the sea, head over to Mokpo Specialty Seafood Market and feast on fresh crab, fish, and more. Afterwards, you can learn about its history as a naval port at the National Maritime Museum. If you’re a K-drama fan, you’ll want to check out the Mokpo Modern History Museum, which was used as a filming site for Hotel del Luna.
Train type(s): KTX only
Ride time: 2.5 hours
Peak travel times: Summer holidays and weekends, especially for island-hopping or coastal tours.
9. Seoul to Gapyeong
Photo: @wanderwithgaby on Instagram
Gapyeong is one of the most popular places to take a day trip to from Seoul, and with the KR Pass, doing so is a breeze. This is where you’ll find Nami Island - a spot that has become iconic for its scenes in the K-drama Winter Sonata.
Nami Island is a must-visit, especially in December. You can also stop by the whimsical Petite France village, which is home to fairytale-like architecture.
Train type(s): ITX-Cheongchun
Ride time: 1 hour (ITX-Cheongchun)
Peak travel times: Every weekend, cherry blossom season, autumn season, and all of December (peak Nami Island content season).
Tips for Travelling by Train in South Korea
With your KR Pass, riding the trains in South Korea can be a breeze. However, some insider tips will have you travelling like a natural.
Plan ahead: You can reserve two seats per day with the KORAIL Pass. If you plan to go to popular tourist attractions, plan and book appropriately. Bookings open 30 days in advance, and the weekends and holidays are known for being notoriously busy.
Book early (D-30): For popular routes like Seoul-Busan or Seoul-Gangneung, seats sell out fast, especially over the weekends. The moment the 30-day booking window opens, try to snag a seat as fast as you can.
Avoid the holidays: Before even booking a holiday to South Korea, make sure your holiday doesn’t fall on Seollal (Lunar New Year) or Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving Day). It’s packed on those days, and the train stations might follow a different schedule.
Pack light: There are overhead compartments in KORAIL trains, but the spaces are limited. The KTX has more room for bags, while the ITX and Mugunghwa have tighter overhead compartments. Make sure to pack light and utilise coin lockers in stations.
Always have your documents on hand: You may be asked to prove that you’re a foreigner when using your KORAIL Pass. Always have your passport on hand for quick and easy verification.
Don’t worry about missing trains: If you missed a train, that’s totally fine. You can check online for the next train and book an available seat or simply hop on the next one.
KTX vs ITX: Choose the KTX if you want the fastest ride, but go for the ITX when you don’t mind a longer journey and want to save money. They don’t run on the exact same routes, so the ITX is usually your go-to for regional or off-the-beaten-path destinations (e.g. Seoul-Chuncheon).
FAQ
How many trains can you take in a day?
You can take as many as you like, but you can only reserve 2 seats per day on your pass. If you need to take more than two trains, you can still jump on without a seat, but you'll have to stand.
What if you can't get a reserved seat? Can you still board?
Yeah, you can still get on even if seats are all booked up. You'll just have to stand or sit in an unoccupied seat until asked to move.
Can I upgrade to a First Class seat?
Yes, but be prepared to pay the difference, which will be an extra cost of around 50%. You can only upgrade at the station counter or possibly online when you book.
Can I change my travel dates after buying? What's the deal with refunds?
Once you've activated your pass, you can't change your travel dates. Unused passes can be refunded (though there might be a small fee).
Can I lend my pass or share it with someone?
No. The pass is non-transferable and has to match the name on your passport. You can't lend it to a friend, even if it's just for a day
What if someone in our group misses a segment? Does the pass still work?
No, it won’t work if someone in your group misses a segment. Everyone on a Saver Pass has to stick together for it to work
Where's the best place to buy my KORAIL Pass?
You can book it from the official website, or, if you'd prefer, Pelago is an alternative option. Booking through Pelago gives you a smoother checkout experience, an interface that's a lot more user-friendly for English speakers, and of course, the option to earn some extra KrisFlyer miles, which is handy if you’re already collecting them for future flights or upgrades.