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T-money & transit cards basics
Physical T-money (and hedged mobile options) for Seoul subway/buses: where to buy, top-up/refunds, tourist cards vs WOWPASS — with working eng.tmoney links.
Reviewed:
What is T-money?
T-money is Korea’s widely used reloadable transit payment product. A physical card (and some mobile options) works on subway and city buses nationwide in many cities, plus many taxis and T-money–logo convenience stores / cafés. Start from the English hub: eng.tmoney.co.kr. (`www.t-money.co.kr` often fails to load — prefer the `eng.tmoney` / `tmoney.co.kr` hosts below.)
Getting a physical card
- Everyday T-money cards sell at convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven, and others such as Emart24) and at many Seoul Metro information centers (Lines 1–8). Visit Korea lists a typical card price around ₩3,000–₩5,000 (product designs vary).
- Tourist-oriented T-money products are optional. Official foreigner page: Tmoney Travel Card (lists a Travel Card around ₩4,000 at convenience stores / Incheon Airport bus ticket office). KOREA TOUR CARD (legacy physical tourist card) is discontinued for purchase on that same page — existing holders may still see partner benefits.
- Optional all-in-one prepaid cards such as WOWPASS