Seoul to Busan: What’s the Best Option in 2025?
Whether you’re planning a solo adventure or a group trip, getting from Seoul to Busan is easy with multiple travel options available. But which one is truly worth it — KTX, SRT, ITX, Mugunghwa, express bus, flight, car, or chauffeur service?
Here’s a full comparison, including prices, duration, and pros and cons, so you can make the smartest choice for your trip.
KTX (Korea Train Express)
Duration: ~2 hours 15 mins to 2 hours 40 mins
Price: ₩59,800 (Economy), ₩83,700 (First Class)
Departure Station: Seoul Station
Arrival Station: Busan Station
Pros:
Fastest train option between Seoul and Busan
Modern, comfortable trains with onboard amenities
Frequent departures throughout the day
Cons:
More expensive compared to other trains and buses
Limited luggage space
Best For:
Travelers who want to maximize sightseeing time in Busan and prioritize speed and comfort.
SRT (Super Rapid Train)
Duration: ~2 hours 28 mins
Price: ₩50,000 – ₩80,000 depending on class and time
Departure Station: Suseo Station (Gangnam area, southern Seoul)
Arrival Station: Busan Station
Pros:
Comparable speed to KTX
Slightly cheaper tickets than KTX
Modern facilities and less crowded trains
Cons:
Departure from Suseo Station which is less central than Seoul Station
Fewer daily departures than KTX
Best For:
Travelers staying in southern Seoul or those looking for a budget-friendly high-speed train.
ITX-Saemaeul Train
Duration: ~4 hours 45 mins
Price: ₩42,600 (Economy)
Departure Station: Seoul Station
Arrival Station: Busan Station
Pros:
Comfortable mid-range train option
Cheaper than high-speed trains
Quieter and less crowded than Mugunghwa
Cons:
Longer travel time than KTX and SRT
Limited number of daily departures
Best For:
Travelers wanting train comfort on a budget and who have more flexible schedules.
Mugunghwa Train
Duration: ~5 hours 50 mins
Price: ₩28,600 (Economy)
Departure Station: Seoul Station
Arrival Station: Busan Station
Pros:
Most affordable train option
Scenic route through Korean countryside
Multiple daily departures
Cons:
Slowest train option
Older trains with fewer amenities
Can be crowded during holidays
Best For:
Budget travelers, backpackers, or those who want a relaxed, scenic journey.
Intercity Bus from Seoul to Busan
Pros:
Cheapest direct transport to various Busan districts
Frequent departures from multiple Seoul bus terminals
Comfortable seating on premium buses
Cons:
Longer travel time due to possible traffic delays
Price may increase during peak seasons
Limited luggage space
Best For:
Budget-conscious travelers looking for direct routes to Busan and flexibility with departure points.
Domestic Flight from Seoul to Busan
Flight Duration: ~1 hour
Total Travel Time (including airport transfers): ~3 hours
Price: ₩26,600 – ₩109,700 depending on airline and booking time
Departure Airport: Gimpo International Airport
Arrival Airport: Gimhae International Airport
Pros:
Fastest air travel time between Seoul and Busan
Multiple flights daily
Competitive prices if booked early
Cons:
Additional time and cost for airport transfers and security
Baggage restrictions may apply
Airport locations may be less convenient than city center stations
Best For:
Travelers who prefer flying or are connecting from other flights at Gimpo Airport.
Self Driving from Seoul to Busan
Driving Time: ~5 hours (without heavy traffic)
Estimated Cost: Starting from ₩50,000 per day (fuel, tolls extra)
Pros:
Complete freedom to stop anywhere and explore off-route destinations
Ideal for short stops like Gyeongju or Ulsan before arriving Busan
Can be more economical with a group
Cons:
Traffic congestion especially near Seoul and Busan
Need an International Driving Permit (IDP)
Parking fees and availability may be issues in Busan
Best For:
Groups, families, or travelers wanting flexibility and to explore beyond main cities.
Private Chauffeur Service
Duration: ~5 hours (door-to-door)
Price: ₩856,000 for up to 6 passengers
Service Includes:
New vehicle models under 3 years old
Professional, insured chauffeur (insurance up to ₩150 million)
Door-to-door personalized transfer
Pros:
Ultimate comfort, privacy, and convenience
No need to navigate public transport or driving
Spacious vehicle with ample luggage room
Cons:
Very expensive if traveling solo or in small groups
Only cost-effective for groups of 4 or more
Best For:
Families or groups wanting luxury, convenience, and stress-free travel.
To make the most of your Seoul to Busan journey, always book your tickets in advance—especially during peak travel seasons—and keep an eye out for the latest schedules and promotions to snag the best deals. Whether you prefer the speed of the KTX, the budget-friendly bus, or the comfort of a private chauffeur, planning ahead ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip.
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