Seoul Overhauls Bus System, Introduces T-Money Payment Card

  • Date07/23/2004
  • Hit5860
Getting around Seoul has become a little easier as of July 1, 2004 when the Seoul City Government introduced its new transit system, including a T-Money traffic card. Seoul City buses routes have been overhauled, and the vehicles have been painted vibrant red, yellow, blue and green to make the service easier to use for all international travelers. Most convenient though is the new payment system. T-Money cards can be purchased for 3,000 won (about 2.50 USD) and can be used on all Seoul City buses and subways, as well as intra-city buses in Gyeonggi Province (serving such famous attractions as Everland Park and the Korean Folk Village) and Incheon City (serving the Incheon International Airport.) T-Money card users will receive a 100 won discount over cash-paying passengers. Cards can be purchased (or refilled) at vendor kiosks located near most major city bus stops or any subway station. Repeat customers can buy the cards in a chip device that attaches easily to cell phone, PDA, or specially made wrist watches, allowing for quick-touch-and-go payments. Government officials are currently expanding the uses of the T-Money card, and anticipate that by the end of July, users may also use the card to pay for admission to local theme parks and spectator sports. For more information about the Seoul Transit System or the T-Money card, visit the Seoul Government website at www.english.metro.seoul.kr.