Should You Get Seoul's Climate Card for Unlimited Public Transportation?

If you're planning a trip to Seoul, navigating the city's extensive public transportation system efficiently is essential. The Climate Card might be the perfect solution, offering unlimited access to buses, subways, and even the Ttareungi bike-sharing service. But is it the best option for tourists? In this guide, we'll explore the benefits, costs, and additional perks of the Climate Card to help you make an informed decision.

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What is the Climate Card?

The Climate Card is a comprehensive transportation pass, launched in 2024, designed to provide unlimited use of public transportation within Seoul for a set period, for both locals and tourists. Once you charge the card, you can get up to 30 days of unlimited rides on the subway, buses, and the Seoul Ttareungi bike-sharing service, making it an ideal choice for residents or anyone planning to explore Seoul extensively for a short period.

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Climate Card Service Range

The Climate Card covers a wide range of transportation options within Seoul:

• Seoul-based subway lines, including the Gimpo Goldline.
• Seoul-licensed transit and town buses, allowing you to board or disembark outside Seoul as long as the bus is Seoul-licensed.
• Ttareungi (Seoul Bike), providing unlimited access to Seoul’s popular bike-sharing system.

However, there are some limitations to be aware of:

• The Climate Card does not cover the Sinbundang Line, subway lines outside Seoul, intercity and airport buses, or non-Seoul-licensed buses.
• If you disembark at a subway station outside the service range, you’ll be required to pay an additional fare from your boarding station to your destination. For instance, if you board at Jongno 3(sam)-ga Station (within Seoul) and disembark at Indeogwon Station (outside Seoul), you'll need to pay the extra fare.

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How Much Does Public Transportation Cost Without the Climate Card?

To determine if the Climate Card is worth it, it helps to compare it to standard public transportation costs in Seoul:

• Subway Fares:
  • Adults: 1,400 KRW within 10km (extra 100 KRW for every 5km beyond that)
  • Youth: 800 KRW
  • Children: 500 KRW
• Bus Fares (depending on the type of bus):
  • Adults: 1,200 to 1,500 KRW
  • Youth: 600 to 900 KRW
  • Children: 400 to 550 KRW

Transfers between different buses or subway lines are generally free or discounted if done within 30 minutes, but this doesn’t apply if you transfer to the same bus or subway line.

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Climate Card Pricing Options

The Climate Card offers several pass types, tailored to different needs:

• Long-term Pass:
  • 30-day Pass (with Ttareungi): 65,000 KRW (Youth Discount: 58,000 KRW)
  • 30-day Pass (without Ttareungi): 62,000 KRW (Youth Discount: 55,000 KRW)
• Short-term Pass for Tourists:These passes are perfect for tourists, offering unlimited use of Seoul's public transportation for a selected period at a budget-friendly price:
  • 2-day Pass: 8,000 KRW
  • 3-day Pass: 10,000 KRW
  • 5-day Pass: 15,000 KRW
  • 7-day Pass: 20,000 KRW

These short-term passes activate immediately upon charging, so plan your days carefully to get the most value. They do not include access to Ttareungi but do come with additional perks.

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Additional Benefits: Discounts on Attractions

One of the best aspects of the Climate Card is the additional discounts it offers on popular attractions in Seoul:

• 50% Off:
  • Seoul Science Center (서울시립과학관): Explore interactive exhibits and scientific wonders.
  • Seoul Botanic Park (서울식물원): Wander through this expansive botanical garden, home to diverse plant species.
  • Seoul Grand Park (서울대공원): Visit this vast park, which includes a zoo, rose garden, and scenic trails.
• 30% Off:
  • Theatre des Lumieres Exhibition (빛의 시어터): Immerse yourself in digital art displays that bring classic paintings to life.
• 20% Off:
  • The Painters Gwanghwamun Theater (페인터즈): Enjoy a live performance that combines painting with visual effects in a captivating show.
• Hangang River Bus:
  • [Coming Soon]: Take a scenic ride along the Han River with discounted fares on the Hangang River Bus.

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Refund Policy for the Climate Card

If your travel plans change, the Climate Card offers a refund option. The refund amount is calculated as follows:

Refund Amount = Total Charged Amount – Total Used on Public Transportation – 500 KRW Fee

You must request a refund before the end of the card’s use period. Refunds can be issued directly to a Korean bank account or partially canceled on your payment card.

For foreign tourists without a Korean bank account, cash refunds are available at the Tmoney headquarters.

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Is the Climate Card Worth It for Tourists?

The Climate Card offers excellent value for tourists, particularly those who plan to explore Seoul extensively over several days. The convenience of unlimited public transportation, combined with the added discounts on popular attractions, makes it a cost-effective choice.

However, if your itinerary includes destinations outside of Seoul or requires transportation not covered by the Climate Card, consider the additional costs. Overall, for most tourists focused on exploring Seoul, the Climate Card is a smart and economical option.

Whether you're riding the subway, hopping on a bus, or enjoying a discounted visit to one of Seoul's attractions, the Climate Card enhances your travel experience while helping you save money.

Safe travels!

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Cover photo source: Elle Morre (Unsplash)