Korea Transport Guide

Your first subway ride: direction, transfers and exits

Choose the right platform and follow the transfer signs all the way to your exit.

2026-10-16 · SoloDiningKorea

01

Match the line and the next station

  1. Open a current route. Note the boarding station, line, next station, transfer station and final stop.
  2. Before choosing a platform, match its arrow and listed stations with the next station in your route.
  3. Check the train's destination and whether it is local or express. The same line can branch or have trains ending early.
  4. Let passengers off first; after boarding, check the next-station display.
Inside a Seoul subway train. Read the next-station display and leave room by the doors.
Inside a Seoul subway train. Read the next-station display and leave room by the doors.Photo: Seoul Tourism Organization · Seoul Tourism Archive ↗ · KOGL Type 1 · Photo licence

02

Transfer is different from Exit

Follow the full transfer path and any designated transfer-gate instructions. Do not choose a street exit simply because the route changes lines.

SignWhat to do
환승 / 갈아타는 곳 · TransferFollow the target line number, colour and direction.
나가는 곳 · ExitLeave the station only when this is your intended exit.
출구 3 · Exit 3A numbered street exit, not a platform or carriage number.
  1. 1Get off
  2. 2환승 · Transfer
  3. 3Next line's platform
  4. 4At destination: 나가는 곳 · Exit

03

If you board in the wrong direction

  1. Get off at a safe station and check the opposite direction before continuing.
  2. If changing platforms seems to require leaving the gates, show staff your destination first.
  3. Do not assume re-entry is free: Seoul's 15-minute rule only covers specified services and conditions.
Which platform goes to this station?이 역에 가려면 어느 승강장으로 가야 하나요?
I went the wrong way. Can you help me change platforms?반대 방향으로 왔어요. 승강장 이동을 도와주실 수 있나요?

04

Check the last train and the final walk

  1. Search the whole journey at your expected departure time, including every transfer.
  2. At the destination, tap out and follow the exit number in the walking route.
  3. With luggage, check the lift route to street level; the nearest numbered exit may have stairs.
  4. Keep your accommodation's Korean name and address available offline.
A subway lift and accessible gate. Check where the lift leads before taking your luggage through.
A subway lift and accessible gate. Check where the lift leads before taking your luggage through.Photo: Seoul Tourism Organization · Seoul Tourism Archive ↗ · KOGL Type 1 · Photo licence

Sources and scope

Source review: 2026-10-16. Practical steps and itinerary combinations are editorial guidance. Check official notices for current opening hours, prices, availability and entry requirements.