During last year's trip to South Korea, I visited a few provinces to make the most of my trip. I stayed there for about three weeks, which gave me more than enough time to explore other places apart from Seoul. 

KORAIL Pass

One of the most useful things I got for that trip was the KORAIL Pass, and it's something you should also consider getting if you're traveling outside of Seoul. Here's what you need to know about this pass.


What is the KORAIL Pass?

The KORAIL Pass is a special travel pass designed exclusively for foreign tourists. It allows unlimited travel on the extensive network of trains operated by the Korea Railroad Corporation or KORAIL. With this pass, travelers can hop on and off trains at their leisure, exploring South Korea's different provinces without worrying about individual ticket purchases.

And with careful planning, the KORAIL Pass can also help you save some money.

How the KORAIL Pass Works

The KORAIL Pass comes in two options to suit different travel preferences and durations. Travelers can choose between the Consecutive Pass and the Flexible Pass, depending on whether they prefer continuous travel or a more flexible itinerary.

Consecutive Pass

This is ideal for travelers planning to explore South Korea intensively. The Consecutive Pass offers unlimited travel for a set number of consecutive days. For example, you might opt for a 3-day, 5-day, 7-day, or 10-day pass, allowing you to travel on any three, five, seven, or ten consecutive days respectively.

Flexible Pass

This is perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed pace or wish to explore the country over an extended period. The Flexible Pass allows unlimited travel within a set number of days within a designated validity period. For instance, you might choose a 4-day pass valid within a 10-day period, giving you the flexibility to travel on any four days within that window.

KORAIL Pass
inside Seoul Station

Where to Buy the KORAIL Pass

The KORAIL Pass can be conveniently purchased online through the official KORAIL website or through authorized travel agencies specializing in South Korea travel packages. Additionally, visitors can often get a pass at some train stations and tourist information centers throughout South Korea. Major train stations like Seoul Station, Busan Station, and Yongsan Station, just to name a few, have KORAIL offices where you can purchase the pass. 

You can also purchase it through third-party websites like Klook, which is where I got mine. The online booking process was straightforward, and I got a confirmation with the pass details in minutes.

How to Use the KORAIL Pass

Using the KORAIL Pass may initially seem tricky, but here's a quick guide to help you. It's important to note that even if you have the KORAIL Pass for unlimited train rides, seats aren't guaranteed, and you still have to reserve them online. You also need to generate a mobile ticket to present during the inspection.

1. Register your KORAIL Pass.

Before you can start reserving seats, you need to register your KORAIL Pass. Go to the KORAIL website, and under the KORAIL Pass tab, click "My Reservation". Enter your KORAIL Pass number, which you can get from the voucher attached to the booking confirmation email, and follow the prompts to register and activate your pass.

2. Enter the dates that you plan to use the pass.

After activation, click " Details" and enter the "first date of travel with KORAIL Pass", which is the first day you intend to use it. If you got the Flexible Pass, you must also enter the other dates you plan to use the pass. For example, I booked the 4-day Flexible Pass, which is good for 10 days, so I had to enter the four dates I planned to use the pass.

3. Book your trips and reserve your seats.

Once you've activated the pass and indicated your travel dates, you can start booking your trips with any trains in the KORAIL network. Go to the KORAIL website and enter the city or train stations of origin and destination, plus the travel date, and you will get several trip options. Select your preferred time, and that's it. You will get a mobile ticket to present during the ticket inspection.

KORAIL Pass
on the ITX Train going to Busan

Is the KORAIL Pass Worth It?

Definitely!

If you use the KORAIL Pass effectively, you get to save a lot compared to buying individual tickets. During my trip to South Korea last year, I got the 4-day Flexible Pass, which was good for 10 days, and I used to travel to Gapyeong, Busan, Daegu, and Gwangju. I paid around PHP9,900 for the pass, and I saved around PHP2,000.

This is why it's important to plan your trip carefully. Take time to research your itinerary in advance to make the most of your KORAIL Pass. Consider factors such as travel times, distances between destinations, and must-see attractions along the way.


For travelers eager to explore South Korea outside of Seoul, the KORAIL Pass is a gateway to unforgettable adventures. I'd highly recommend it!