How to Travel from Seoul to Busan: KTX vs Bus vs Flight (2025 Guide)

Seoul city skyline view during sunset with mountains in the background

How to Travel from Seoul to Busan: KTX vs Bus vs Flight (2025 Guide)

Planning to visit Busan from Seoul? Whether you're a budget traveler or just trying to figure out the smartest way to move between South Korea’s two biggest cities, this guide breaks down the three most common options: KTX, domestic flights, and express buses. Let’s find what works best for your trip!


🚄 KTX – Fast and Convenient, But Pricey

  • Price: ₩59,800 (Standard seat)
  • Time: ~2 hours 40 minutes
  • Depart/Arrive: Seoul Station → Busan Station (city center to city center)

Pros:

  • Very punctual and fast
  • Spacious and clean seats
  • Ideal for those short on time

Cons:

  • The most expensive option
  • Popular time slots can sell out quickly

✈️ Domestic Flight – Fast Flight, But Time Adds Up

  • Price: ₩30,000 ~ ₩70,000
  • Flight Time: 1 hour (total ~3 to 3.5 hours including transfers)
  • Depart/Arrive: Gimpo Airport → Gimhae Airport

Pros:

  • Can be cheaper with promotions
  • Quick flight
  • Fun if you like flying

Cons:

  • Airport commute and check-in can be a hassle
  • Not ideal for central Seoul travelers
  • Low-cost carriers often charge extra for luggage

🚌 Express Bus – Budget Friendly and Surprisingly Comfortable

  • Price: ₩25,000 ~ ₩40,000
  • Time: ~4.5 hours
  • Depart/Arrive: Express Bus Terminals → Busan Terminal

Pros:

  • Most affordable option
  • Premium seats available (luxury and “Udeung” buses)
  • No check-in process—just board and go
  • Frequent departures throughout the day

Cons:

  • Traffic can delay arrival
  • Terminals may not be in the city center


📊 Quick Comparison Table

Option Price Time Departures Best For
KTX ₩59,800 2h 40m Seoul Station → Busan Station Speed + Comfort
Flight ₩30,000~70,000 3~3.5h Gimpo → Gimhae Deals + Fun
Bus ₩25,000~40,000 4.5h Bus Terminals Budget + Relaxed Travel


💬 Final Thoughts

Personally, flights can feel like more trouble than they’re worth—getting to the airport, waiting around, going through security—it adds up. Unless you’re catching a great deal, it might not be worth the hassle.

Buses, though slower, offer a relaxing ride. Watching everyday scenes through the window—apartment complexes, highway rest stops, city outskirts—gives you a real feel of local life. Sometimes, just seeing people go about their day is what makes travel truly special.

If you’re not in a rush, the express bus might be your hidden gem.

Whatever you choose, Korea’s transportation is impressively reliable. You’ll be in good hands whichever route you go. Safe travels!

Location: 대한민국

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