|
Rental cars are available for those visitors who choose
to drive in Korea. Drivers must meet the following requirements
to rent a car:
- Have more than 1 year's driving experience
- Have an international driver's license
- Be over 21 years of age
- Possess a valid passport
Driving safely in Korea takes some practice. Cars are
driven on the right side of the road and most road signs
are written in Korean and English. Due to the high traffic
density and complex road systems, it is probably advisable
to hire a driver along with the car, especially in large
cities. Visitors who wish to hire a chauffeur-driven
car must be prepared to pay the driver's meals and hotel
expenses as well. For further details, call the Korea
Car Rental Union. (02) 533-2503
|
Major Car Rental
Companies
| City |
Name |
Telephone |
| Seoul |
Donghwa |
(02)375-3694/5 |
| |
Han
Gang |
(02)247-0022 |
| |
Jangwon |
(02)951-5001 |
| |
Jaeil |
(02)525-6011 |
| |
Korea |
(02)585-0801/5 |
| |
Korea
Express |
(02)719-7295 |
| |
Kumho
(Hertz) |
(02)792-6982/4 |
| |
Meister |
(02)5260-600 |
| |
New
World |
(02)512-8595 |
| |
88
(P'al-P'al) |
(02)3661-8881 |
| |
Sambo |
(02)797-5711/5 |
| |
Samjee |
(02)413-8880 |
| |
Samsong |
(02)662-7100 |
| |
Saehan |
(02)896-0031 |
| |
Seoul |
(02)474-0011 |
| |
VIP |
(02)838-0015 |
| Pusan |
Hankuk |
(051)205-3240 |
| |
Pusan |
(051)469-1100 |
| |
Youngnam |
(051)293-5400 |
| Taegu |
Young-il |
(053)952-1001 |
| Inch'on |
Kyong-In |
(032)525-4444 |
| |
New
Inch'on |
(032)882-0106 |
| |
P'aldo |
(032)864-8688 |
| Kwangju |
Line |
(062)676-6362 |
| Taejon |
Ch'ungnam |
(042)523-4415 |
| |
Expo |
(042)636-6231/2 |
| |
Kana |
(042)527-2277 |
| Cheju |
Asia |
(064)48-2290/2 |
| |
Dong-a |
(064)43-1515 |
| |
Green |
(064)43-2000 |
| |
Halla |
(064)55-5000 |
| |
Hansong |
(064)47-2100 |
| |
Songsan |
(064)46-3230 |
| |
Cheju |
(064)42-3301/5 |
| |
Pomhan |
(064)48-4001 |
| |
Sukkwang |
(064)48-2800 |
| |
Woori |
(064)52-9600 |
|
|
Car Rental Rates
| Group |
Vehicle
Type |
10
hours |
24
hours |
1
week |
| A |
Tico |
32,000 |
44,400 |
248,640 |
| B |
Pride |
36,600 |
50,900 |
285,040 |
| C
|
Excel,Accent
1.3 |
39,700 |
55,100 |
308,560 |
| D |
Elantra 1.5,
Accent 1.5 |
41,700 |
57,900 |
324,240 |
| D1 |
Avante 1.5 |
44,600 |
62,000 |
347,200 |
| E |
Sonata 1.8,
Prince 1.8, Credos 1.8 |
49,600 |
68,900 |
385,840 |
| F |
Prince 2.0,
Sonata 2.0, Credos 2.0 |
54,300 |
75,400 |
422,240 |
| G |
Sonata Gold,
Princ2.0 DOHC,
Credos LSDI, Galloper, Sportage |
58,200 |
80,800 |
452,480 |
| H
|
Grandeur 2.0,
New Brougham 2.2 DOHC |
92,200 |
116,700 |
653,520 |
| I
|
Grandeur 2.0
EXE, Grandeur 2.5,
New Brougham 2.2 DOHC |
102,700 |
130,000 |
728,000 |
| J
|
Grandeur 3.0
Social |
114,800 |
145,300 |
813,680 |
| K
|
Grace 12 Passenger
Super Van |
70,900 |
89,700 |
502,320 |
| M |
Chorus 15 Passenger
Van, Combi 15 Passenger Van |
105,200 |
133,200 |
745,920 |
|
|
*Fares may vary from company to
company. |
|
Boat travel is one of the most pleasant ways to see Korea.
Ferry services ply the waterways between Pusan and Cheju,
Mokp'o and Hongdo, and P'ohang and Ullungdo.
|
|
|
Domestic Ferry Routes
| Route |
Vessel
Name |
Sailings
(Time) |
Ticketing |
| Inchon <-> Cheju |
Semo Express Ferry |
-> Mon, Wed, Fri (19:00)
<- Tues, Thurs, Sat (19:00) |
Inchon (032) 884-8700
Cheju (064) 721-2173 |
| Pusan <-> Cheju |
Tong-yang Car Ferry No.6 &
Treasure |
-> Daily (19:00)
<- Daily except Sun. (18:30) |
Pusan (051) 463-0605
Cheju (064) 751-1901 |
| Mokp'o<->Cheju |
Sea World Express Ferry No.2 |
Daily except Mon
-> 9:00/ <- 17:30 |
Mokp'o(0631) 243-1927
Cheju (064) 758-4234/5 |
| Democravy No.2 |
-> Daily (13:40)
<- Daily (09:00) |
Mokp'o (0631)245-3235/6
Cheju (064) 721-2171 |
| Wando <->
Cheju |
Hanil Car Ferry No.1,2 |
-> Daily (15:00)/ Sun (16:00)
<- Daily (09:00)/ Mon(08:20) |
Seoul (02) 535-2101
Cheju (064) 722-4170
Wando (0633) 554-3294/5 |
| Hanil Car Ferry No.2 |
-> Daily except Sat (16:00)
(Nov-Feb: Daily except Fri)
<- Daily except Sat (08:20)
(Nov-Feb: Daily except Fri) |
| Pusan<->Sogwip'o |
Cheju Car Ferry No. 3 |
->Mon, Wed, Fri (18:30)
<- Tues, Thur, Sun (17:00) |
Pusan (051) 464-2228
Sogwip'o (064) 732-0220/1 |
| P'ohang <-> Ullungdo |
Sunflower |
Daily -> (10:00)/ <-
(16:00) |
Seoul (02) 514-6766
P'ohang (0562) 242-5111
Ullungdo(0566)791-0801/3 |
| Muk'o <-> Ullungdo |
Catamaran |
-> Daily (11:40)
<- Daily (15:30) |
Mok'o (0394)531-5891/2
Sokch'o (0556)791-0802 |
| okch'o <-> Ullungdo |
Catamaran |
-> Tues, Thurs (08:30) <-
Mon, Wed (13:00) |
Sokch'o (0392) 636-2811/2
Ullungdo (0566) 791-0801 |
| Mokp'o <-> Hongdo |
Namhae Star, Namhae Prince,
Namhae Queen |
Twice daily
-> (07:50 & 13:40)
<- (10:00 & 16:00) |
Mokp'o (0631) 244-9915/6
Hongdo (0631) 246-3977 |
|
|
*Sailing Schedule can be changed
by season |
|
Korean Air and Asiana Airlines serve the domestic
flight network linking Korea's 14 major cities. Flight
time to any of these destinations is around one hour.
Reservations and ticketing can be done by calling
a travel agent or the airline office.
Domestic airline fares are listed below. To be assured
of a seat, tickets must be purchased before the reservation
expiration date.
|
|
|
Korean Air (KE): 1588-2001
Asiana Airlines (OZ): 1588-8000
<Reservation Offices>
| Location |
Korean Air |
Asiana Airlines |
Location |
Korean Air |
Asiana Airlines |
| Seoul |
(02)656-2001 |
(02)669-8000 |
Kwangju |
(062)222-2000 |
(062)226-4000 |
| Pusan |
()51)464-2000 |
(051)465-4000 |
Mokp'o |
(0631)273-2000 |
(0631)242-4000 |
| Cheju |
(064)752-2000 |
(064)743-4000 |
P'ohang |
(0562)272-2000 |
(0562)277-4000 |
| Yech'on |
(0571)853-2000 |
(0571)854-4000 |
Sokch'o |
(0392)632-2000 |
-
|
| Chinju |
(0591)757-2000 |
(0591)747-4000 |
Taegu |
(053)423-2000 |
(053)421-4000 |
| Chongju |
(0431)252-2000 |
(0431)250-4000 |
Ulsan |
(052)2271-2000 |
(052)2261-4000 |
| Kangnung |
(0391)653-2000 |
(0391)643-4000 |
Wonju |
(0371)731-2000 |
-
|
| Kunsan |
(0654)471-2000 |
(0654)461-4000 |
Yosu |
(0662)641-2000 |
(0662)666-4000 |
|
| Hallyosudo
Waterway Cruise |
|
A hydrofoil, the Semo Angel-ho, runs between Puan and
Yosu on the south coast, calling at several small ports
on the way. This scenic cruise, winding in and out of
the islands dotted around the Hallyosudo Waterway, is
gaining in popularity among foreign visitors. For reservations,
contact Semo Company.
Address: Terminal No. 207, 16-5, Chung-ang-dong, Chung-gu,
Pusan
(051) 469-3851/3, Fax (051) 469-3272
|
| Reservations |
|
| Pusan |
(051) 469-3851/3 |
| Kohyon |
(0558) 635-5600 |
| Songp'o |
(0558) 32-1400 |
| Tong-yong (Ch'ungmu) |
(0557) 645-3121/2 |
| Saryangdo |
(0558) 42-6016 |
| Samch'onp'o |
(0593) 33-2816 |
| Namhae (Mijo) |
(0594) 867-7880 |
| Yosu |
(0662) 63-1824, 2824 |
|
|
|
Han-gang River Cruises
|
|
The Han-gang River meanders through the heart of Seoul,
bisecting the capital and passing many attractions along
its way. Taking a river cruise, especially by night when
the bright lights of the city illuminate the Seoul skyline,
can be a memorable experience for visitors to Seoul. For
further information, contact the Semo Cruise Co. (02)
785-0392/4 Business hours: 10:00-22:00 |
| Wharf |
Type |
Route |
Duration |
| Yanghwa (02) 675-3535 |
One-way |
Yanghwa -Youido -Ttuksom
-Chamshil |
90 min |
| Touido (02) 785-0392 |
One-way
|
Youido -Ttuksom -Chamshil
|
70 min
|
| |
Round-trip |
Youido -Yanghwa -Han-gang
Bridge -Youido |
70 min |
| Chamshil (02)416-8611 |
One-way |
Chamshil -Ttuksom -Youido |
70 min |
| |
Round-trip |
Chamshil -Tongho Bridge
-Chamshil |
60 min |
| Ttuksom (02)468-7101 |
One-way |
Ttuksom -Youido |
50 min |
| |
One-way |
Ttuksom -Chamshil |
40 min |
| |
Round-Trip |
Ttuksom -Tongho Bridge
-Ttuksom |
60 min |
|
|
* Children pay half-fare
|
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Subway
|
|
The subway is the most efficient and convenient way
for foreign travelers to get around Seoul and Pusan.
Station names, ticket counters, and transfer signs are
all clearly marked in English as well as Korean, the
different lines are color-coded, and all trains have
announcements in English and
Korean. The subways themselves are clean and efficient,
air-conditioned, and have automatic ticket dispensers
and convenient bus connections. Each station has a large
waiting area and the walls are decorated with various
artistic works. Fares are inexpensive, but do vary with
service areas, so check the cost for your destination
before purchasing a ticket from teh ticket counter or
dispenser.
|
|
Five subway lines serve Seoul and its suburbs. The
five lines are color-coded: red for Line 1, green for
Line 2, orange for Line 3, blue for Line 4, and violet
for Line 5. Line 1 connects Seoul and Ch'ongnyangni
Stations, the two major train stations in Seoul, passing
through City Hall and Chongno in the heart of downtown.
This line also merges with the surface electric train
line of the state-run Korean National Railroad (K.N.R.),
linking Seoul to its major satellite cities of Inch'on,
Suwon, Uijongbu, and Ansan. Line 2 is a circular route
encompassing both sides of the Han-gang River from City
Hall through Ulchiro, across the river to Chamshil,
Yongdong, and north again to the Shinch'on area. Line
3 runs from Taehwa in the northwest to Ori in the south,
linking seoul with its two new satellite cities of Pundang
and Ilsan. Line 4, a mirror-image of line 3, is anchored
by Tanggogae in the northeast and Sadang in the south
and is connected to the railroad line to Ansan. Line
5, which passes through central Seoul and runs to Kimpo
International Airport, is newly completed. Line 7 and
8 are partially open and the subway lines 6 is
still under construction.
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|
|
The Pusan subway line was built from Nop'o-dong in the
east through Shinp'yong in the west in accordance with
Pusan's geographical features. It is the quickest way
to get around in the city and all the more convenient
for its well developed bus connections. A new line serving
Haeundae Beach is under construction. |
|
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City Buses
|
|
The bus systems differ slightly from city to city in Korea.
There are two types of city buses, local and express,
and both are numbered according to their routes. The bus
system is so extensive that it may be used to get almost
anywhere in the city. Since the bus signs are written
only in Korean, however, finding the right bus can be
quite confusing to the first-time visitor. Hotel staff
will be able to assist in choosing the correct bus and
stop for your destination. Fares can be paid with either
cash, a token, or a bus card as you board. Bus cards in
W10,000 and W20,000 denominations are available at token
booths near bus stops. The bus fare W400 is automatically
deducted from the bus card when it is passed over the
card reader located next to the driver. Empty cards can
be recharged at token booths to be used again. To stop
the bus at your destination, push one of the stop buttons
located along the length of the bus. |
|
City express buses, called chwasok buses in Korean,
stop less frequently and thus travel throughout congested
areas faster. The fare for the city express buses and
the new deluxe city express buses are W800 and W1,000
respectively.
|
|
Taxis |
|
Taxis are a popular form of public transportation in
Korea. There are many taxi stands in most busy city
area and taxis may also be hailed on the streets. Certain
taxis can be requested by phone, though the fare for
these special cll taxis (02) 414-0150/5 is somewhat
higher. An increasing number of taxi drivers speak some
English. Available taxis are identified by a red light
just inside the passenger-side windshield.
|
|
The fare system is based on both
the distance and the time taken. Fares are W1,000 for
the first 2 km and W100 for eash additional 247 m. If
the taxi is going less than 15km per hours, an additional
charge of W100 per 60 seconds is added to the basic fare.
The fare between Kimpo and downtown Seoul is usally around
fare beween Kimpo and Chamshil is approximately W20,000.
Fares increase 20% after midnight until 4 a.m.
|
|
Deluxe taxis, called mobom taxi
in Korean, are black with a yellow sign on the top and
the words "Deluxe Taxi" written on the sides.
They after a high standard of service. Fares are W3000
for the first 3km and W2000 for each additional 250
m or each 60 seconds if the speed drops below 15km per
hours. The usual fares between Kimpo and downtown, and
Kimpo and Chamshil are about W23,000 and W35,000 respectively.
Receipts are given. There is no late-night surcharge.
Deluxe taxis can be taken at stands which are located
at hotels, station, bus terminals, and on major city
streets.
|
|
Comfortable and convenient highway bus services operate
on expressways throughout the country, connecting all
major cities. Most of the express bus terminals are
located close to the city centers and so are convenient
for city tours. Regular express buses have 45 seats
and take one or two breaks at the service areas on the
expressway.
Because of their popularity, reservations are required
for weekend and holiday trips. Two express bus terminals
serve Seoul: the Seoul Express Bus Terminal
and Tong Seoul Express Bus Terminal.
The Seoul Express Bus Terminal is the main bus depot
for trips from Seoul to other major cities and is divided
into two sections in two separate buildings: the Kyongbuson
Express Terminal serves the Seoul-Pusan line and covers
most major cities south of Seoul, including Taejon,
Taegu, Pusan and the historic city of Kyongju. The Honam-Yongdongson
Express Terminal covers cities on the east coast and
in the southwestern provinces, including Kwangju and
Mokp'o. They are conveniently served by the Express
Bus Terminal Subway Station on Line 3. The Tong Seoul
Express Bus Terminal operates similar routes but with
less frequent services and fewer destinations. This
terminal is adjacent to the Kangbyon Subway Station
on Line 2.
The Express Bus Terminal of Pusan
is located in the eastern part of downtown, 15 minutes
walking distance from Tongnae Subway Station and 40
minutes from central downtown.
|
Deluxe Express Buses
Although the fare is rather expensive compared
to that of regular buses, these buses have gained great
popularity because of their spacious seating and other
facilities such as mobile phones, VCRs, and foot rests.
For some lines, late-night Deluxe Express Buses are available.
These have the benefit of saving time and accommodation
charges by traveling overnight. These buses share the
terminal with other regular buses. |
 |
Express Bus Terminals
| Location |
Address |
Telephone |
| Seoul |
19-3, Panp'o-dong, Soch'o-gu,
Seoul |
(02) 782-5551/2 (kyongbuson)
(02) 592-0799 (others) |
| Tong Seoul |
546-1, Kuui-dong, Songdong-gu,
Seoul |
(02) 446-8000 |
| Pusan |
1412-1, Onch'on 3-dong,
Tongnae-gu, Pusan |
(051) 505-5580 |
| Taejon |
101-1, Yongjon-dong, Taejon |
(042) 623-8255 |
| Taegu |
328-1, Shinch'on 4-dong,
Tong-gu, Taegu |
(053) 743-3701 |
| Kwangju |
49-1, Kwangch'on-dong,
So-gu, Kwangju |
(062) 360-8800 |
| Sokch'o |
1418, Choyang-dong, Sokch'o |
(0392) 631-3181 |
| Kyongju |
243-5, Noso-dong, Kyongju |
(0561) 741-4000 |
|
|
Passengers trains, operated by the Korean National
Railroad, are fast, reliable, and moderately priced.
The trains run on a strict schedule and, unlike road
transportation, are not affected by traffic congestion
during the holiday seasons. An extensive network covers
almost every part of the nation. There are four classes
of trains: the super-express Saemaul-ho, express Mugunghwa-ho,
limited express T'ong-il-ho, and standard Pidulgi-ho.
The fastest and most comfortable service, and consequently
the most expensive, is offered by the Saemaul trains.
The coaches are well heated in winter and air-conditioned
in summer, with comfortable seating and plenty of
leg room. These trains also have sleeping compartments.
For most destinations, the trains are full on weekends
and holidays, so purchasing tickets at least two weeks
in advance is advisable. This may be done at railway
stations or travel agents. The Korea Travel Bureau
operates a ticket sales outlet at KNTO's Tourist Information
Center. There are also special ticket counters for
foreigners at some of the major railway stations.
|
Railroad Information Center for
Foreigners: (02) 392-7788 |
|
