Buying Train Tickets in Korean: KTX, SRT & Ticket Machines
Photo: Liliana Drew / Pexels
Photo: Pew Nguyen / Pexels
At the Counter
Staffed ticket counters (매표소) are common at major stations and are the easiest option if you’re not confident navigating a booking app or machine. Staff generally understand simple destination and time requests even without much Korean.
Using a Ticket Machine
Self-service ticket machines (무인발권기) at KTX and subway stations usually offer an English-language option, but knowing a few Korean terms helps when the machine is Korean-only or when a menu doesn’t translate cleanly.
Booking Online: KTX vs SRT
KTX is operated by Korail and mainly departs from Seoul Station, Yongsan, and other Korail hubs, while SRT is a separate operator running mainly from Suseo Station in southeastern Seoul. Both have their own apps, and fares/schedules aren’t always identical for the same route, so it’s worth checking both if you have flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you buy a KTX ticket in Korean?
A simple phrase like [목적지]까지 표 한 장 주세요 (“one ticket to [destination], please”) works at any staffed counter.
What’s the difference between KTX and SRT?
Both are high-speed rail operators in Korea. KTX is run by Korail and mainly serves Seoul Station and Yongsan; SRT is a separate operator mainly departing from Suseo Station in southeastern Seoul.
Can I buy train tickets in English in Korea?
Yes — most ticket machines and the Korail/SRT apps offer an English option, though counters and machine-only stations may be Korean-first.
What does 무인발권기 mean?
무인발권기 (muin balgwongi) means self-service ticket machine, commonly found at KTX and subway stations.
Every journey starts with the right words
Booking a ticket is just the first step — build the vocabulary that carries you through the whole trip.
START LEARNING KOREAN →