Seoul to Busan by KTX: How to Book Tickets or Use the KORAIL PASS

Fantagy Korea editorial team · Updated 2026-10-31

The KTX high-speed train, run by KORAIL, is the most popular way to travel from Seoul to Busan. Gyeongbu Line KTX trains leave from Seoul Station, and you arrive at Busan Station. You can buy single tickets, or use the KORAIL PASS if you plan several train trips.

Option 1: single KTX tickets

• Buy them on KORAIL's official English website, at station ticket counters and machines, or through an authorized agency.
• VisitKorea says seats can be reserved up to 31 days in advance on the website. Check the current fare on the official booking page, because fares vary by train and seat class.
• Note: SRT is a separate high-speed service that leaves from Suseo Station in southeast Seoul and is booked separately.

Option 2: KORAIL PASS (foreign visitors only)

• A rail pass for foreign visitors only. Korean nationals cannot use it.
• Choose 2 or 4 flexible days within a 10-day window, or 3 or 5 consecutive days. Groups of 2–5 can buy a cheaper Saver pass. See KORAIL's site for current prices.
• Valid on KORAIL trains, including KTX, ITX-Saemaeul, Saemaeul, Mugunghwa and some tourist trains. Not valid on SRT, subways or temporary tourist trains.
• Buy it on KORAIL's website, at KORAIL Travel Centers (Seoul, Yongsan, Busan, etc.) or through an appointed travel agency. Enter your details exactly as they appear in your passport.

Reserving seats with a pass

1. After you buy the pass, go to “My Reservation” → “Seat Reservation” on the KORAIL site. You can also book at a station travel center by showing your printed pass and passport.
2. Seat reservations open 1 month before departure. First Class costs extra.
3. When you travel, carry your pass, your seat ticket and your passport.

Refund rules for the pass

• You can cancel only before the pass starts. Return any reserved seat tickets first.
• You can change the first travel date once, before the pass starts. You cannot change the pass type or your personal details after purchase.

Is the pass worth it?

Look up the KTX fares for the trips you actually plan, such as Seoul → Busan → Gyeongju → Seoul, and compare the total with the pass price. A single round trip usually doesn't justify a pass. Several long rides in a few days might.

Sources

• KORAIL — About KORAIL PASS (official)
• KORAIL — KORAIL PASS Q&A (official)
• VisitKorea — KORAIL Pass (KTO)
• Seoul TOPIS — Subway lines (Seoul Metropolitan Government)

Checked by the Fantagy Korea editorial team on 2026-10-31. Prices, timetables and rules change — confirm on the official site before you travel.