---
title: "Seoul Subway Lines 1-9 Routes and Fares"
locale: en
category: how_to
category_name: "How-to"
translation_status: reviewed
license: cc_by
author: "Injoys Editorial Team"
source_url: https://injoys.com/en/articles/seoul-subway-lines-1-9-routes-fares-transfers
published_at: 2026-11-11T09:46:26+09:00
---

# Seoul Subway Lines 1-9 Routes and Fares

> For Seoul subway lines 1-9, check both your destination and the train's destination. This site explains how to use the route finder, which sections each operator runs, distance-based fares, transfer rules and concession eligibility, and where to check available facilities.

## Key Points

- Select your departure and arrival stations in the subway and bus route finder on the left side of this site.
- Check the search results for routes and fares between two stations in the Seoul metropolitan area.
- Select the station you plan to use to check the first, last and next trains.
- Before boarding, check the train's destination and whether express trains stop at your station.
- Check the operator's information for the locations and operating status of the facilities you need.

To use Seoul Subway Lines 1~9, first choose your departure and arrival stations. You can check routes and fares using the route finder on the left side of this site. Before boarding, check both the train’s destination and the transfer conditions.

The basic figures in this article are current as of November 9, 2026, when the operators’ information was checked.

## How to Check Routes, Fares, and Timetables

Start your search in “Subway and Bus Route Finder” on the left side of this site. Have the names of your departure and arrival stations ready. Before traveling, also check the operators’ service change notices.

1. Open “Subway and Bus Route Finder.”
2. Select your departure and arrival stations in the Seoul metropolitan area to check routes and fares.
3. Select the station you will use to check the first train, last train, and next train.
4. Check current train conditions using Seoul’s real-time arrival information.
5. On the platform, check the destination and local or express service signs.

Timetables show scheduled service times. Real-time arrival information is used to check current train operations. If you are taking the last train, also check the timetable for any line you will transfer to.

## Routes and Features of Lines 1~9

Along with the line number, check how far the train goes. Branches and terminal stations can vary even on the same line. The table below summarizes the routes and features you need when choosing your journey.

| Line | Main Sections and Connections | What to Check Before Boarding |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Line 1 | Seoul Station~Cheongnyangni city-center section, connecting to the Gyeongbu, Janghang, Gyeongin, and Gyeongwon lines | The direction of your destination, such as Incheon, Cheonan, Sinchang, or Yeoncheon, and the train’s terminal station |
| Line 2 | Main loop, Seongsu~Sinseol-dong Seongsu Branch, Sindorim~Kkachisan Sinjeong Branch | Direction around the loop and whether a branch transfer is needed |
| Line 3 | Daehwa~Jichuk~Ogeum | The destination of trains connecting the Ilsan Line and Seoul Metro section |
| Line 4 | Jinjeop~Namtaeryeong~Geumjeong~Oido | Whether the train runs as far as your destination |
| Line 5 | Banghwa~Hanam Geomdansan·Macheon | Whether the train is bound for Hanam Geomdansan or Macheon |
| Line 6 | Eungam Loop~Sinnae | Direction of travel around the Eungam Loop |
| Line 7 | Jangam~Onsu~Seongnam | The route extending west of Onsu and the train’s terminal station |
| Line 8 | Byeollae~Moran | A route that includes the extension to Byeollae |
| Line 9 | Gaehwa~VHS Medical Center | Local or express service and whether it stops at your destination |

The Seoul Metropolitan Subway refers to a broader rail network than the Seoul Subway. Seoul Subway lines also extend beyond Seoul. Do not read Seoul Metro’s operating-section table as showing the full length of each line.

### Line 2 Loop and Branches

When choosing a route on Line 2, distinguish between the main loop and the branches. The Seongsu Branch connects Seongsu and Sinseol-dong. The Sinjeong Branch connects Sindorim and Kkachisan. If your destination is on a branch, check the transfer station in the search results.

### Line 9 Local and Express Services

Line 9 express trains stop only at selected stations. Local trains stop at every station on the Gaehwa~VHS Medical Center section. Express service runs on the Gimpo International Airport~VHS Medical Center section. You can check whether a train stops at your destination in the [Seoul Metro Line 9 Train Guide](https://www.metro9.co.kr/kor/sub01_04.do).

| Choice | Suitable Situation | What to Check |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Local train | Your destination is a station where express trains do not stop | A train destination that takes you as far as that station |
| Express train | Both your departure and arrival stations are express stops | Express arrival time and terminal station |
| Local/express transfer | Your journey uses both express stops and stations where express trains do not stop | Transfer station and next-train arrival information |

## Sections of the Same Line with Different Operators

Line numbers and operators are separate classifications. Through-running allows trains to continue across sections run by different operators. If the train goes to your destination, you do not need to get off simply because it crosses an operator’s boundary.

| Line | Section Listed by Seoul Metro | Operator of the Connecting Section |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Line 1 | Seoul Station~Cheongnyangni | KORAIL operates the Gyeongbu, Janghang, Gyeongin, and Gyeongwon lines |
| Line 3 | Jichuk~Ogeum | KORAIL operates the Jichuk~Daehwa Ilsan Line |
| Line 4 | Jinjeop~Namtaeryeong | KORAIL operates the Namtaeryeong~Geumjeong Gwacheon Line and Geumjeong~Oido Ansan Line |
| Line 7 | Jangam~Onsu | Incheon Transit Corporation operates stations on the Kkachiul~Seongnam section |
| Line 9 | Phases 2 and 3, Eonju~VHS Medical Center | Seoul Metro Line 9 Corporation operates Phase 1, Gaehwa~Sinnonhyeon |

You can check the connecting KORAIL sections under [Metropolitan Train Routes](https://info.korail.com/info/contents.do?key=1446). Stations operated on the western section of Line 7 are listed in the [Incheon Transit Corporation Operations Overview](https://www.ictr.or.kr/main/railway/intro.jsp). For station facilities, contact the organization responsible for the station you will use.

You must also distinguish between train operating sections and responsibility for managing station facilities. An operations table alone does not establish who manages every station facility. For facilities on extensions in particular, check the information for the relevant station.

## Distance-Based Fares and Early-Morning Discounts

Seoul Subway Lines 1~9 calculate fares by distance traveled. The adult base fare with a transit card is **1,550 won** for up to 10km. This base fare took effect on June 28, 2025.

- The youth base fare with a transit card is 900 won for up to 10km.
- The child base fare with a transit card is 550 won for up to 10km.
- The adult single-journey ticket fare is 100 won higher than the transit card fare.
- For adults, 100 won is added for every 5km over 10km and up to 50km.
- For adults, 100 won is added for every 8km beyond 50km.

Additional distance charges also vary by age group. Do not apply adult surcharges directly to youths or children. Check the fare for your actual route using this site’s route finder.

Separate calculation rules apply when you travel continuously onto sections outside the Seoul metropolitan area. When transferring to another line, also check for sections with separate fares. These conditions are explained under [Seoul Metro Line 9 Fare System](https://www.metro9.co.kr/kor/sub01_05_01.do).

### Early-Morning Discount Conditions

The early-morning discount applies when you board from the start of service through 06:30. You must use a prepaid or postpaid transit card. The discount is 20% of the base fare.

> However, this excludes passengers transferring after first using another mode of transportation.
>
> Seoul Metro Line 9, “Fare System”

If you take a bus first and then transfer to the subway, the exclusion above applies. The early-morning discount does not apply to additional distance charges. Check the boarding time for the first mode of transportation you use.

## Early-Morning Discount Calculation Example

Assume an adult travels within 10km and meets the early-morning discount conditions. This calculation uses the transit card base fare of 1,550 won. This example does not apply if you transfer from another mode of transportation.

- Discount calculation: 1,550 won × 20% = 310 won.
- Discounted base fare calculation: 1,550 won - 310 won = **1,240 won**.
- If you exceed the base distance, additional distance charges are calculated separately.

This amount is calculated using the published base fare and discount rate. It does not represent the final amount charged for every route. Select your departure and arrival stations to check your actual fare.

## Bus Transfer Discount Conditions and Steps

When you transfer between buses and the subway, fares are calculated using the combined travel distance. Additional charges apply if you exceed the usual base distance of 10km. The higher base fare among the modes of transportation you use applies.

1. Have your transit card ready when you first board.
2. Tap the same transit card on the reader when getting off.
3. Board the next mode of transportation **within 30 minutes** of getting off.
4. From 21:00~07:00 the next day, check the condition allowing transfers within 60 minutes.
5. Tap the same card when boarding and getting off the next mode of transportation.

You cannot receive the transfer discount if you do not tap out. Consecutive trips on buses with the same route number are also excluded. Check the detailed conditions in the [Seoul Metro Line 9 Transfer Fare Guide](https://www.metro9.co.kr/kor/sub01_05_01.do).

Metropolitan express and seated-service buses have separate base-distance rules. Do not apply the subway base fare directly to every bus. Transfer discounts do not eliminate additional charges based on distance and mode of transportation.

## Free and Concessionary Travel Eligibility and What to Prepare

Eligibility for free subway travel depends on age and qualifying status. People **aged at least 65** are eligible for free travel. Before traveling, check the ticket or card appropriate for your eligibility.

| Eligible Group | Published Free-Travel Coverage | What to Check Before Traveling |
| --- | --- | --- |
| People aged at least 65 | Eligible for free subway travel | Identity verification and a concessionary ticket or card |
| People with disabilities | Eligible for free subway travel | Documentation needed to verify eligibility |
| People with severe disabilities | Includes 1 accompanying person | Conditions for traveling with a companion |
| Persons of national merit and other eligible groups | Applies according to specified eligibility requirements | Your eligibility category and supporting documentation |
| Children aged less than 6 | Free for up to 3 children per guardian | Number and ages of accompanying children |

Do not assume that eligibility for free subway travel also means free bus travel. Youth and child discounts also require a card appropriate for the passenger’s eligibility. Check documentation and issuance procedures with the operator or station staff.

## Where to Find Elevators, Restrooms, and Nursing Rooms

Look for facilities under “Passenger Amenities” on the Seoul Metro website. “Accessibility Facilities” lists the number of facilities at each station. To check whether they are currently usable, also look at “Elevator and Escalator Operating Status.”

| Facility Needed | Information to Check | Additional Details to Check |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Elevator | Accessibility Facilities, Elevator and Escalator Operating Status | Location and current operating status |
| Escalator or wheelchair lift | Accessibility Facilities, Elevator and Escalator Operating Status | Equipment status along your route |
| Accessible restroom | Accessibility Facilities | Location inside the station and access route |
| Nursing room | Nursing room guide under Passenger Amenities | Stations with nursing rooms and how to use them |
| Storage locker | Ttota Locker guide | Location, size, and fees |

For stations outside the scope of Seoul Metro’s information, check with the relevant operator. The Line 9 operator’s website also has an amenities menu. Elevator and escalator operating status is provided in a separate menu.

## How to Check a Step-Free Route

For step-free travel, check how facilities connect rather than just how many there are. An elevator at your departure station does not tell you about the route through a transfer station. You must also check the route through to the exit for your destination.

1. Find an elevator connecting street level and the platform at your departure station.
2. Check the route to the other line at your transfer station.
3. Check whether the route at your arrival station connects to an exit toward your destination.
4. Check the operating status of the elevators and other lifting equipment you will use.
5. If the connecting route is unclear, contact the station.

Facility information shows where equipment is located. Operating-status information shows whether equipment is under inspection or out of service. If you are traveling with a stroller or wheelchair, check both.

## What to Check Before Using Ttota Locker

Ttota Locker provides storage lockers in subway stations. The information checked on November 9, 2026, lists 273 stations. There are 336 locations with 5,557 locker compartments.

- Sizes are divided into small, medium, and large.
- Published operating hours are 05:00~24:00.
- Check fees in Seoul Metro’s Ttota Locker guide.
- First check the locker location at the station you will use.

Locker operating hours are separate from last-train times. Check whether you can access the locker at the time you plan to collect your belongings. You must check availability at the locker you intend to use.

## Common Mistakes When Reading Route and Transfer Guides

Distinguishing between an operator’s section table and your actual travel route can reduce confusion. Checking only the line number makes it easy to miss branches or express stops. When checking the following items, refer to both the search results and platform information.

| Common Interpretation | What to Check |
| --- | --- |
| Line 1 runs only between Seoul Station~Cheongnyangni | This is the Seoul Metro section, which connects to KORAIL lines |
| Line 7 ends at Onsu | Also check the operated stations on the Kkachiul~Seongnam section west of Onsu |
| All Line 2 trains follow the same loop route | Distinguish between the main loop and the Seongsu and Sinjeong branches |
| Line 9 express trains stop at every station | Check whether express trains stop at your destination |
| Transfer discounts mean there are no additional charges | Check the combined distance and the base fares of the modes used |
| No route check is needed if a station has an elevator | Check routes between exits, platforms, and transfer lines, as well as equipment operating status |

### Line 9 Extension Plans and Opening Date

Do not treat the target completion date for Line 9 Phase 4 as a confirmed opening date. The Seoul Metropolitan Government is pursuing an extension from VHS Medical Center~Godeok Gangil. The official project information gives a target completion year of 2028. You can check the plans in the [Seoul Metropolitan Government Urban Rail Network Expansion Guide](https://news.seoul.go.kr/citybuild/city_railroad).

The information checked for this article did not give a confirmed opening date. If you plan to use the extension, check for a separate opening announcement. Search for your actual route using stations currently in service.

## Operator Contact Information

If fare or station facility information is unclear, contact the responsible operator. Providing both the line and station name will help them check. For timetable inquiries, also include your travel date and destination.

- Seoul Metro: 1577-1234.
- KORAIL: 1588-7788.
- Seoul Metro Line 9 Customer Support Center: 02-2656-0009.
- Operated stations on Line 7’s Kkachiul~Seongnam section: Check Incheon Transit Corporation’s station information.

## FAQ

### Where can I check the first and last train times for the Seoul subway?
Select a station in the ‘Subway and Bus Route Finder’ on the left side of this site. You can check the first train, last train, and next train. If you are transferring, check the timetable for the next line as well.

### How can I check the fare between my departure and arrival stations?
Select the two stations in this site's ‘Subway and Bus Route Finder’. You can check routes and fares between stations in the Seoul metropolitan area.

### Do I need to get off if the operator changes on the same line?
If your train runs directly to your destination, you do not need to get off just because it crosses a boundary between operators. Check whether your train's final stop is before your destination.

### Does Line 1 run only from Seoul Station to Cheongnyangni?
The section from Seoul Station to Cheongnyangni is operated by Seoul Metro. Line 1 connects to KORAIL's Gyeongbu, Janghang, Gyeongin, and Gyeongwon lines. Check the direction of your destination and the train's destination.

### Which stations do the Seongsu and Sinjeong branch lines of Line 2 connect?
The Seongsu branch line connects Seongsu and Sinseol-dong. The Sinjeong branch line connects Sindorim and Kkachisan. Check the transfer route when changing from the main loop line to a branch line.

### Where can I get information about the section of Line 7 west of Onsu?
Incheon Transit Corporation lists the stations from Kkachiul to Seongnam as stations it operates. Check with Incheon Transit Corporation for information about facilities and operations at those stations.

### Do Line 9 express trains also stop at Gaehwa Station?
Line 9 express trains run between Gimpo International Airport and VHS Medical Center. To use Gaehwa Station, check the local train route.

### What is the basic adult fare for the Seoul subway?
The transit card fare, checked on November 9, 2026, is 1,550 won for up to 10km. This basic fare has applied since June 28, 2025. Additional fares apply as the travel distance increases.

### Can I still get the early morning discount if I transfer from a bus to the subway?
You are not eligible if you board as a transfer after first using another mode of transportation. The subway early morning discount applies from the start of service through 06:30. You must also meet the conditions for using a prepaid or postpaid transit card.

### How soon after getting off a bus do I need to transfer?
Generally, you must board the next mode of transportation within 30 minutes of getting off. From 21:00 to 07:00 the next day, the limit is 60 minutes. Tap the same transit card when boarding and getting off.

### Can people aged 65 or older ride the subway for free?
People aged 65 or older are among those eligible for free subway travel. Check with the operator about identity verification and concessionary travel passes. Do not assume that eligibility for free subway travel also applies to buses.

### How many young children can I bring along for free?
Up to 3 children less than 6 years old may travel free with each guardian. Check the number of accompanying children and the age requirements before traveling.

### Where can I find stations with elevators?
You can check the “Accessibility Facilities Status” section on the Seoul Metro website. On the day of your trip, also check the “Elevator and Escalator Operating Status” section. Review the connecting routes at your transfer and destination stations as well.

### Where can I find information on nursing rooms and accessible restrooms?
Check Seoul Metro’s “Customer Amenities” section for stations with nursing rooms. Information on accessible restrooms is available in the “Accessibility Facilities Status” section. For stations run by other operators, refer to the information provided by the relevant operator.

### Where can I check Ttota Locker fees and operating hours?
Check Seoul Metro’s Ttota Locker guide for fees. As checked on November 9, 2026, operating hours are 05:00~24:00. Also check whether you will be able to enter the station when you plan to collect your luggage.

### Is Phase 4 of Line 9 confirmed to open in 2028?
In the official information reviewed, 2028 is the target year for completion. No date was found that was presented as a confirmed opening date. Make your travel plans after checking a separate opening announcement from the Seoul Metropolitan Government.

## Sources

- [Seoul Metro Service Status](http://www.seoulmetro.co.kr/kr/page.do?menuIdx=513)
- [Seoul Metro Fare Information](http://www.seoulmetro.co.kr/kr/page.do?menuIdx=354)
- [Korea Railroad Corporation Metropolitan Train Operations Information - Operating Lines](https://info.korail.com/info/contents.do?key=1446)
- [Seoul Metro Line 9 Company Overview and History](https://www.metro9.co.kr/kor/sub05_01.do)
- [Seoul Metro Line 9 Train Travel Guide](https://www.metro9.co.kr/kor/sub01_04.do)
- [Seoul Metro Line 9 Fare System](https://www.metro9.co.kr/kor/sub01_05_01.do)
- [Seoul Metropolitan Government Subway - Subway Transportation Guide](https://english.seoul.go.kr/policy/transportation/modes-of-transport/subway/)
- [Seoul Metro Accessibility Facilities Overview](http://www.seoulmetro.co.kr/kr/page.do?menuIdx=366)
- [Seoul Metro T-Locker Guide](http://www.seoulmetro.co.kr/kr/page.do?menuIdx=897)
- [Incheon Transit Corporation Urban Rail Operations Overview](https://www.ictr.or.kr/main/railway/intro.jsp)
- [Incheon Transit Corporation Fare Information](https://www.ictr.or.kr/main/railway/guidance/fare.jsp)
- [Seoul Metropolitan Government Seoul Subway Overview and User Guide](https://news.seoul.go.kr/traffic/archives/1551?listPage=1)
- [Seoul Metropolitan Government Urban Rail Network Expansion - Line 9 Phase 4 Extension Project](https://news.seoul.go.kr/citybuild/city_railroad)

## Images

![A woman in a gray coat and red scarf looks up at an overhead train display on a subway platform.](https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NDE0OTAsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--115305a116f8111e218adf8e3571ec4209ccb5b3/ai-d69f656e.webp)
![An older man in a manual wheelchair exits a subway elevator onto a level sidewalk.](https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NDE0OTYsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--daf328c43bb461a6118e80757ae886fefcfad211/ai-c4ab1f93.webp)