How do foreigners buy KTX tickets?
Book on KORAIL's English website or the KORAIL+ app, buy at a station ticket office or kiosk, or get a KORAIL Pass if you will ride a lot. Tickets usually open one month ahead at 07:00, and popular dates sell out, so book early.
Updated 2026-10-15Book online in English
VISITKOREA lists KORAIL's website (korail.com), the KORAIL+ app, NAVER train booking and KakaoT as places to buy train tickets, alongside station counters and kiosks. KORAIL's site has an English version where you can search trains, pick seats with the Reserve Seat option and pay in advance. If a payment is declined, try another card or buy at the station. Keep your booking confirmation on your phone.
When tickets go on sale
According to VISITKOREA, train tickets usually go on sale one month before departure, starting at 07:00 Korea time, and sales close shortly before departure. Weekends and holidays such as Chuseok and Seollal sell out quickly, so book as soon as your dates are fixed. If your train is sold out, check other departure times, standing tickets or nearby stations.
The KORAIL Pass
The KORAIL Pass is for foreign visitors only. VISITKOREA describes 2-, 3-, 4- and 5-day passes usable within ten days, covering standard cabins on KORAIL trains including KTX, with up to two seat reservations per day and unlimited standing tickets. It does not cover SRT trains, subways or temporary tourist trains. You buy it on korail.com and need a valid passport. Compare the pass price with single tickets for your plan.
At the station
You can also buy tickets at station ticket offices and kiosks. Big stations like Seoul, Yongsan and Busan are busy, so give yourself extra time, especially on weekends. Have your destination, date and time ready, or show it on your phone. For help in English, VISITKOREA lists the KORAIL Customer Center at +82-1599-7777, and the 1330 Korea Travel Helpline can also assist.
People also ask
Can I ride the SRT with a KORAIL Pass?
No. VISITKOREA says the KORAIL Pass does not cover SRT trains. You need a separate SRT ticket.
Do I need a Korean phone number to book KTX?
You can book on KORAIL's English site or buy at the station. Requirements on the site can change, so if online booking doesn't work for you, buy at a station counter.
Can I choose my seat?
Yes. When booking online you can use Reserve Seat to pick a seat. Some trains have seats facing both directions, so you can choose which way you face.