Taking the Subway in Korea – Essential Korean Phrases (한국 지하철 이용할 때 꼭 알아야 하는 표현)

Taking the Subway in Korea – Essential Korean Phrases

The subway system in Korea is fast, cheap, and convenient. If you know a few basic Korean expressions, your travel will be much smoother. Let’s learn essential phrases you can use while taking the subway in Korea.

1. Buying a Ticket

• 표 한 장 주세요. (pyo han-jang ju-se-yo) – Please give me one ticket.
• 카드 충전해 주세요. (ka-deu chung-jeon-hae ju-se-yo) – Please recharge my card.
• 어디까지 가요? (eo-di-kka-ji ga-yo?) – How far does this go?

2. Asking for Directions

Korean	Pronunciation	Meaning
이 열차 서울역 가요?	i yeol-cha seo-ul-yeok ga-yo?	Does this train go to Seoul Station?
환승 어디에서 해요?	hwan-seung eo-di-e-seo hae-yo?	Where do I transfer?
몇 번 출구예요?	myeot beon chul-gu-ye-yo?	Which exit number is it?

3. Useful Subway Phrases

• 내릴게요. (nae-ril-ge-yo) – I’m getting off.
• 잠시만요. (jam-si-man-yo) – Excuse me. (when passing through)
• 자리 있어요? (ja-ri i-sseo-yo?) – Is this seat taken?

4. Cultural Tip

In Korea, people usually line up on both sides of the subway door and wait for passengers to exit first. Be sure to stand aside before boarding.

5. Example Conversation

You: 이 열차 서울역 가요? (Does this train go to Seoul Station?)
Local: 네, 가요. (Yes, it does.)
You: 감사합니다! (Thank you!)

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With these expressions, your subway journey in Korea will be much easier. Next time, try asking for directions in Korean to practice!