Searching for a Korea transit card turns up several similar-sounding options. Since eligibility and coverage differ, start by deciding whether your trip is Seoul-only, how long you are staying, and whether you have a resident registration.

Start with your travel range and length of stay

Whether you will only use transit within Seoul or also travel to other cities like Busan or Daegu changes which card fits best, as does whether you are a short-term tourist or a long-term resident with registration.

T-money: the simple nationwide default

T-money works on subways and buses in most Korean cities. Buy a physical card at a convenience store or station, charge it with cash or card, and use it immediately with no sign-up, the simplest option for short trips. It has no currency-exchange or general payment function, so it is transit-only.

WOWPASS: exchange, payment, and transit in one card

WOWPASS is described as an all-in-one prepaid card for foreign visitors, partnered with Seoul Metro and T-money. Its app lets you load foreign currency at a real-time exchange rate for won payments, and the same card carries the T-money transit function. Its payment balance and transit balance are separate, so confirm your transit balance is charged before your first ride.

Climate Pass and K-Pass depend on residence registration

Climate Pass is a flat-fare program for Seoul residents aged 19 or older with registered addresses, so short-term tourists are not the intended members, but Seoul is said to keep a separate 1, 2, 3, 5, and 7-day unlimited pass for foreign tourists. K-Pass is described as open to foreign residents with registration in a participating municipality and a phone in their own name, which fits long-term students or workers rather than short-term visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I still need T-money if I have WOWPASS?

WOWPASS combines a payment balance with the T-money transit function, but the two balances are separate. Check that your transit balance is charged in the app before your first ride.

Is the Climate Pass short-term pass only for foreigners?

Seoul is reported to offer a separate 1, 2, 3, 5, and 7-day unlimited pass for foreign tourists. Check the official Seoul announcement for current sales details.

Can international students or workers use K-Pass?

K-Pass is reported to accept foreign residents registered in a participating municipality with a phone under their own name. Confirm eligibility through the official K-Pass process.

Source and Use Notes

This page summarizes published data for planning. Actual station conditions can differ, so verify them on site.