Taking the KTX from Seoul to Busan: What to Keep in Mind on Board
Dr.Evers Clinic · Busan Seomyeon has put together a few key points for riding the KTX from Seoul to Busan: screenshot your ticket in advance, sit in your assigned seat even without security checks, platform numbers are only announced shortly before departure, check seat direction when booking, put large luggage in the car connectors, and move to the door early before arrival.
When taking the KTX from Seoul to Busan, you don't need to scan or verify your ticket at the station, and there are no security checks, but your ticket, seat direction, and preparations before getting off still need to be handled in advance. Dr.Evers Clinic · Busan Seomyeon has organized the spots where riders most often slip up below.
Why should you always screenshot your ticket first?
Because Seoul Station is crowded and the network can stall at any moment, opening the app on the spot may not work.
Whether it opens is uncertain, but a ticket that won't open or a seat you can't find can send you into a panic in an instant. So please screenshot and save your ticket first.
Without security checks, can you just board without buying a ticket?
No. Korea runs on trust, but the conductor goes seat by seat with a PDA, and the fine for being caught without a ticket is heavy.
Don't count on luck.
When are platform numbers announced?
They only appear 10 to 15 minutes before departure.
When you arrive at Seoul Station, check the big screen first; there's no need to rush to find your Track. Once you see the number, going downstairs is still in time.
What should you watch for with seat direction when booking?
Many KTX seats face backward, so if you're prone to motion sickness, check the direction carefully when booking.
If you want to charge your devices, choose a seat by the pillar between two windows; the outlets and USB ports are there.
Where should large luggage go?
Put 28-inch large suitcases directly on the luggage rack in the car connector; don't force them up onto the overhead rack above the seats.
After placing them, it's a good idea to tie on a brightly colored string so someone else doesn't take them by mistake.
What should you do as arrival approaches?
Stand at the door 5 minutes before arrival.
The KTX is very punctual, and some stations stop for only 1 to 2 minutes. In the 5 to 10 minutes before reaching Busan Station, you can gather your belongings and move to the car door to wait; don't wait until the train has fully stopped before slowly getting your luggage.
Information on this site is for reference only and is neither medical advice nor a guarantee of results. Outcomes vary; your plan is determined at consultation.