HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET FROM SEOUL TO BUSAN?

The shortest travel time is 2 hours 15 minutes, and the longest is 5 hours 50 minutes.

HOW MANY TRAIN DEPARTURES PER DAY?

There are 70 departures per day.

DO YOU NEED TO BOOK A TRAIN TICKET IN ADVANCE?

The Seoul-Busan train route is the most popular one in South Korea. To ensure availability for your preferred date and time of travel, it's wise to book your rail tickets well ahead of time. You can book South Korea train tickets online for travel dates up to one year ahead.

IS THERE A DIRECT TRAIN BETWEEN SEOUL AND BUSAN?

The KTX Seoul to Busan train is a direct high-speed travel option, requiring no train changes. It makes a limited number of scheduled short stops along the way and is the most convenient transportation mode between the cities, noted for its short travel time and comfortable amenities.

Seoul to Busan Train

Trains are the fastest and cheapest way from Seoul to Busan, taking about 2 hours. Book your tickets online in advance and simply wait for departure!

MORE INFORMATION & TIMETABLE

Departures per day

70 departures

Longest Travel Time

2 hours 58 minutes

Distance

417 km

Ticket price starts from:

39$

Seoul to Busan KTX Train Schedule

Information on Trains from Seoul to Busan

Busan Station is one of the largest and most impressive transport hubs in South Korea, combining modern design with a lively atmosphere. Upon entering the main hall, you immediately notice its vast glass structure that lets in an abundance of natural light, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for travellers. It is also the terminus of the Gyeongbu Line, served by KTX high-speed trains. Thanks to its central location, it provides easy access to the city’s main attractions.

Seoul Station is one of South Korea’s busiest and most iconic railway terminals, seamlessly blending historical charm with modern functionality. The station features an impressive glass-and-steel design that reflects the dynamism of the capital while preserving its original red-brick building as a cultural landmark. Serving as the main hub for KTX high-speed trains, it connects Seoul with major cities such as Busan, Daejeon, and Gwangju. Inside, travellers find a wide range of facilities, including shops, restaurants, and convenient transfer options to the subway and airport lines. Its central location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring Seoul’s key attractions.

The SRT trains are an excellent choice for anyone traveling long distances across South Korea, offering a modern and efficient experience. Departing from Suseo Station in Seoul, these high-speed trains are especially popular for journeys between major cities like Seoul and Busan. Passengers can choose from different travel classes, including the spacious 1st class and the comfortable 2nd class. All SRT trains are fully air-conditioned, with reclining seats, power outlets, and ample space for luggage. Onboard vending machines and snack trolleys provide light refreshments, and professional staff ensure a smooth journey, with many able to assist in English.

Busan Train Route and Map

The Seoul to Busan train route is the backbone of South Korea's rail network, connecting the nation's capital to the bustling port city of Busan. Spanning approximately 400 kilometers (about 250 miles) along the Gyeongbu Line, this route is renowned for its efficiency, speed, and scenic beauty. There are two types of high-speed trains on this route: KTX and SRT, both offering similar travel times from different departure stations.
KTX Seoul to Busan
The KTX (Korea Train eXpress) is a high-speed bullet train that connects Seoul and Busan, making the journey in approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. The fastest travel time from Seoul to Busan by KTX train is approximately 2 hours and 11 minutes. KTX trains depart from Seoul Station or Yongsan Station and arrive at Busan Station on the Gyeongbu Line. The KTX Seoul to Busan train is a direct train, requiring no train changes — it makes a limited number of scheduled short stops along the way.
Busan KTX Trains: SRT Option
The SRT (Super Rapid Train) is another high-speed train option that operates between Seoul and Busan, departing from Suseo Station and offering similar travel times to the KTX. All SRT trains are fully air-conditioned, with reclining seats, power outlets, and ample space for luggage. Onboard vending machines and snack trolleys provide light refreshments for passengers during the journey, and professional staff ensure a smooth journey with many able to assist in English.

Seoul Station

Seoul Station is one of South Korea's busiest and most iconic railway terminals, seamlessly blending historical charm with modern functionality. The station features an impressive glass-and-steel design and serves as the main hub for KTX high-speed trains, connecting Seoul with major cities including Busan, Daejeon, and Gwangju. Inside, travellers find a wide range of facilities, including shops, restaurants, and convenient transfer options to the subway and airport lines.
Trains from Seoul depart from four different stations: Seoul Station, Yongsan Station, Cheongnyangni Station, and Yeongdeungpo Station. SRT high-speed trains depart from Suseo Station in Gangnam, making it a popular Seoul to Busan KTX alternative for travelers based in southern Seoul. The exact departure and arrival station information will be shown on your ticket.

Busan Station

Busan Station is one of the largest and most impressive transport hubs in South Korea, combining modern architecture with a lively atmosphere. Upon entering the main hall, you immediately notice its vast glass structure that lets in an abundance of natural light, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for travellers. It is the terminus of the Gyeongbu Line, served by KTX high-speed trains, and thanks to its central location, provides easy access to the city's main attractions in Dong-gu and beyond.

KTX Bullet Train Ticket Prices

Economy Class and First Class
Economy Class tickets for the KTX from Seoul to Busan can cost approximately ₩59,800 for adults and ₩29,900 for children. First Class tickets are around ₩83,700 for adults and ₩53,800 for children. Pricing for standard economy seats usually starts between $40 to $70 one-way depending on peak times, while First Class seats run closer to $70 to $111. The price for a KTX ticket from Seoul to Busan generally starts from around $60 to $79, depending on the class and booking time.
Buy Tickets: How to Book
Tickets for the KTX train from Seoul to Busan can be purchased online on Rail Ninja, at ticket desks, from ticket machines at the train station, or via e-ticket. It is recommended to book train tickets for the popular Seoul to Busan route at least one month in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel periods like weekends and summer. Online booking platforms allow travelers to secure train tickets for travel dates up to one year ahead.
Korail Pass for International Travelers
The Korail Pass is available for international travelers visiting South Korea, offering unlimited travel on Korail services for a set number of days. It is an excellent option for those with multiple travel plans across the country and can be purchased online before your trip.