One of the things that I find so amazing about South Korea is the public transportation system. You can get just about anywhere with the subway, train, bus or taxi. This is far different from where I live in Lincoln, where most people have their own cars and public transportation is lacking.
Before coming here, I found the subway to be a bit daunting, but after using it for a few days, it was very easy to navigate. All of the signs, maps and station names are in English as well as Hangul which was extremely helpful! To get to the tracks, you simply scan your “T Money” card which is very quick and easy! No waiting in long lines to buy tickets. T Money cards are easily reloaded with money at machines that can be found all over the stations. These cards can also be used for taxis and even at convenience stores!
Of course, as South Korea is one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world, everything can be navigated through an app! The app, Seoul Metro, shows you the quickest route to your destination through subway or bus. It tells you everything from how many stops you have to your destination to when the train/bus is scheduled to arrive. I have also used the KakaoTaxi app quite a bit, which is basically the Korean version of Uber.
This weekend I rode the ITX or bullet train from Chuncheon to Seoul which was an awesome experience! I bought my ticket on the KORAIL app which shows you every station and the times the train is running. Once you’ve purchased your ticket, the app gives you a QR CODE that you scan to get to the tracks. The ITX train has very nice, comfortable seats that make for a pleasant ride! The trip from Chuncheon to Yongsan station was about one hour long.
Overall, I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to experience all forms of public transportation here in Korea. I appreciate how cheap, easy and accessible it is for everyone and I wish we had better public transit in Lincoln!
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