Climate Card SeoulGuide: Unlimited Subway & Bus Pass for Tourist

One thing I really love is Transportation Pass for Tourists, Because it is expensive thesedays, the ticket for buses and subways. In Euroup, it cost about $3 for one ride, same as Japan.

As a Traveler I appreciate the special offers for transportation, espceialy for Tourists.

Exploring Seoul is amazing, but transportation costs can add up quickly. If you plan to visit Hongdae, Gangnam, and Gyeongbokgung Palace all in one day, paying for every single ride is a hassle.

Good news for travelers! Seoul has officially launched the Climate Card (Gihoo Donghaeng Card), a game-changer for tourists. It is an unlimited short-term transit pass designed specifically for visitors.

Here is everything you need to know about saving money on Seoul’s public transport.


climate card image logo

What is the “Climate Card”? 💳

The Climate Card is a prepaid transit pass that allows you to use Seoul’s subways and buses unlimited times for a designated period.

Unlike the traditional T-money card (where you pay per ride), the Climate Card lets you hop on and off as much as you want without worrying about your balance. It’s the perfect “Seoul Travel Pass.”


Price & Pass Types (Short-Term Options) 💰

There are 5 types of passes tailored for tourists. Choose the one that fits your itinerary!

  • 1-Day Pass: 5,000 KRW (~$3.75 USD)
  • 2-Day Pass: 8,000 KRW
  • 3-Day Pass: 10,000 KRW
  • 5-Day Pass: 15,000 KRW
  • 7-Day Pass: 20,000 KRW

Is it worth it?

The base fare for the Seoul subway is about 1,400 KRW.

If you take the subway or bus more than 3 times a day, the 1-Day Pass (5,000 KRW) is already cheaper than using T-money. It’s a no-brainer for active travelers!


Where to Buy & How to Top-up 🏪

You cannot buy this card at Incheon Airport yet. You must buy it in Seoul.

Direct link to official website of Seoul city

  • Where to Buy (Physical Card):
    • Customer Safety Centers inside subway stations (Lines 1-8).
    • Convenience Stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven, Emart24) located near subway stations. Look for the “Climate Card” sticker!
    • Card Price: The physical card costs 3,000 KRW (Cash only recommended).
  • How to Top-up:
    1. Go to a ticket vending machine inside any subway station.
    2. Place your card on the reader.
    3. Select “Recharge” and choose your pass duration (1, 2, 3, 5, or 7 days).
    4. Pay with Cash (KRW). Credit cards are not accepted at machines yet.
  • Mobile App (Android Only):

Coverage: Where Can I Use It? (Important!) ⚠️

The Climate Card covers most of Seoul, but there are exceptions. Please check this before you go.

  • ✅ COVERED (Unlimited):
    • Seoul Subway Lines 1~9
    • Ui-Sinseol Line, Sillim Line
    • Gimpo Goldline
    • Seoul City Buses (Blue, Green buses)
    • Seoul Public Bikes (Ttareungi): Included in the pass!
  • ❌ NOT COVERED:
    • Shinbundang Line (The Red Line connecting Gangnam to Bundang).
    • Airport Railroad (AREX) to Incheon Airport: You cannot use it to go to/from Incheon Airport. (However, Seoul Station ↔ Gimpo Airport section is covered).
    • Red Buses (Inter-city buses).

📝 Summary for Travelers

  1. Buy it if: You plan to travel extensively around Seoul (3+ rides/day).
  2. Don’t buy it if: You mostly walk or only take 1-2 rides a day.
  3. Remember: Bring Cash (KRW) to buy and top up the card at the station!

Enjoy a stress-free trip to Seoul with the Climate Card!


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