About KTX Train
Taking the KTX for the first time? Here’s everything you need to know. KTX (Korea Train Express) is South Korea’s high-speed rail network, and for a first-time visitor a KTX train is the simplest way to cross the country: Seoul to Busan takes a little over two hours, your seat is assigned, and there’s no airport-style security. Since September 2026, Korail KTX and the former SRT trains from Suseo have run as one KTX network, with fares about 10% lower. Below you’ll find the main KTX routes, travel times, seat classes and how to book your tickets. Not sure you need the KTX bullet train at all? Korea’s slower ITX trains cost less and still serve many of the same cities, so they’re worth a look if your schedule is flexible. Our train classes guide compares the two.
Fast City Connections
Major routes in as little as 2.5 hours
Smooth & Quiet Ride
Relax with minimal noise from departure to arrival
Onboard Perks
Wi-Fi, restrooms, and space for large bags
Punctual Schedules
Experience reliable service with on time performance over 95%
KTX Schedule & Ticket Prices
Train Route | Travel Time | Starting Price | Distance | Trains per Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Seoul ⇄ Daegu (Dongdaegu) Train | from 1h 41m | €23 | 290 km | 90+ |
KTX Train Seoul to Busan / KTX Busan to Seoul | from 2h 18m | €33 | 417 km | 74 |
Seoul ⇄ Daejeon Train | from 52m | €13 | 160 km | 113 |
KTX Seoul to Gyeongju (Singyeongju) | from 1h 57m | €27 | 335 km | 29
|
Seoul ⇄ Gangneung Train | from 1h 51m | €17 | 225 km | 13 |
Seoul ⇄ Pohang Train | from 2h 15m | €29 | 386 km | 16 |
Seoul (Yongsan) ⇄ Jeonju Train | from 1h 44m | €19 | 237 km | 7 |
Note: On the KTX Seoul–Busan line, the Seoul to Busan train and the Busan to Seoul train cost the same, about €33 in standard class, and the fastest bullet train from Seoul to Busan takes 2h 18m. Seoul to Busan KTX trains also leave from Suseo Station, where KTX tickets from Seoul to Busan cost slightly less (about €32). Every Seoul–Busan train has assigned seats. Prices are standard-class adult fares after the September 2026 fare cut, converted from Korean won, so the exact amount depends on the exchange rate. Trains per day comes from the current KTX timetable and varies by date, so check the KTX train schedule for your day when you book.
Step Inside the High-Speed KTX
The KTX is a Korean high-speed train that runs at up to 300 km/h, yet the ride is smooth and quiet enough to read, work or sleep. On every KTX train in Korea, standard class has two seats on each side of the aisle, while first class has wider seats in a 2+1 layout. Newer KTX trains have power outlets at each seat, and onboard Wi-Fi is available on several routes, though speed varies. There’s no dining car, so bring food and drinks with you or buy them at the station before you board. Korail KTX trains on the main routes leave throughout the day, and the KTX Seoul to Busan line has more departures than any other.
How to Buy KTX Tickets: Step by Step
You can get KTX tickets online or at the station, and every option sells the same seats at the same Korail fares. For most visitors, KTX booking online is the easiest.
Step 1: Choose Where to Buy
Book KTX tickets online on the Korail website or in the Korail Talk app, both in English, or buy Korea train tickets through an online booking partner if your card isn’t accepted. Stations also have ticket counters and machines with an English menu. At weekends and on holidays, book KTX a few days ahead.
Step 2: Have Your Details Ready
To book a KTX ticket, you’ll usually need your passport details and a payment card; check the exact rules on Korail’s website before you book. Your KTX train ticket arrives as a mobile ticket, so there’s no need to print it.
Step 3: Pick Your Class and Seat
Korail KTX tickets come in standard (“General room”) and first class, which has wider seats. You can usually choose a window or aisle seat and which way you face. Your Korean train tickets show the train, car and seat number, which is all you need to board.
KTX Train Classes
Explore the different KTX train classes and find the travel experience that suits you best
KTX Economy Class
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Before booking, it's worth knowing the KTX train rules and luggage policy, along with what to expect onboard:
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Comfortable standard seating with good legroom
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Clean, modern cabin suitable for all travelers
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Overhead storage space for luggage
KTX First Class
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Wider seats with extra legroom
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Quieter cabin with fewer passengers
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Reclining seats designed for long-distance comfort
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Power outlets available at most seats
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Calm, comfortable atmosphere ideal for work or rest
Boarding the KTX
Which station to go to
In Seoul, KTX trains leave from several stations, so always check the one printed on your ticket. Seoul Station serves Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, Gyeongju and Pohang. Yongsan Station serves the southwest, including Jeonju, Gwangju and Mokpo. Most Gangneung trains leave from Cheongnyangni. Suseo Station in Gangnam used to be the SRT terminal; since September 2026 its trains run as KTX too, so a ticket to Busan may now depart from Suseo instead of Seoul Station. In Busan, all KTX trains use Busan Station in the city centre.
FAQ: What to Know About KTX Train
1. Where can I buy KTX tickets?
You can buy tickets for the Korea Train Express on the Korail website, in the Korail Talk app, from ticket counters and machines at any KTX station, or through an online booking partner. See our step-by-step guide above for details.
2. Do I need a printed ticket?
No. Korail sends your ticket to the app or your email as a mobile ticket, and the conductor checks it on board. If you booked through a partner, follow the ticket instructions in your confirmation email.
3. Do I need to book KTX tickets in advance?
Same-day tickets are often available, but the KTX bullet train fills up at weekends, on public holidays and during peak travel seasons. Book a few days ahead if you’re travelling then, especially on the Seoul–Busan line.
4. What happens if I miss my train?
Your ticket is only valid for the train printed on it, so you can’t simply board the next one. Go to a station ticket counter as soon as possible: you can get a partial refund until your original train reaches its destination, and then buy a ticket for a later train.
5. How do refunds work?
On the Korean rail network, the refund fee depends on how close to departure you cancel: it’s free or very low if you cancel early and rises as departure gets closer, with higher fees at weekends and on holidays. Before departure, you can cancel online or in the app; after departure, only at a station counter. Once the train has arrived, there’s no refund. Tickets bought through partners may follow their own rules.
6. What amenities are available on KTX trains?
This Korean high-speed train has comfortable reclining seats, clean restrooms and luggage racks in every car. Newer trains have power outlets at each seat, and Wi-Fi is available on several routes, though speed varies. It’s one of the most comfortable ways to travel by Korean train.