Do you tap on or off buses in Korea?

Mastering the Korean Bus: Tap On, Tap Off, and Save!

Navigating the bustling streets of South Korea often involves hopping on and off buses, a reliable and efficient mode of transportation. While the system is relatively straightforward, one crucial aspect can make a significant difference to your travel budget: tapping your transportation card.

In Korea, the rule of thumb is simple: you must tap your transportation card both when boarding and when exiting the bus. This isn’t just a polite gesture; it’s essential for receiving transfer discounts and ensuring you’re charged the correct fare.

Think of it as signing in and out of your commute. Upon boarding, tapping your card activates the system, registering your entry point and triggering the fare calculation. However, the magic truly happens when you tap off.

Why is tapping off so crucial?

The primary reason is to qualify for transfer discounts. Korea boasts an integrated public transport system, meaning you can seamlessly transition between buses, subways, and even some trains using the same transportation card. However, these discounts are only applied when the system knows you’ve completed your bus journey and are moving on to the next leg. Without tapping off, the system assumes you’re still on the bus, and you won’t receive the valuable savings associated with transferring within the specified time frame.

Where do you tap off?

Typically, the card reader for exiting the bus is conveniently located near the back door. Look for a small, designated area with the familiar T-money or Cashbee logo. Be sure to tap your card before stepping off onto the sidewalk to avoid missing the crucial step.

What if I forget to tap off?

Forgetting to tap off can lead to some unfortunate consequences. While the exact amount varies depending on the region and distance, you’ll likely be charged the maximum fare for that bus route. This can be significantly higher than the actual distance you traveled, effectively wiping out any potential transfer discount you might have earned.

In Summary: Tap On, Tap Off, and Travel Smart!

Mastering the “tap on, tap off” routine is a simple yet essential part of navigating the Korean bus system. By remembering this simple step, you’ll not only ensure you’re paying the correct fare but also maximize your savings with valuable transfer discounts, allowing you to explore the beauty and convenience of Korea’s public transportation network without breaking the bank. So, next time you board a bus in Korea, remember to tap on, enjoy the ride, and most importantly, don’t forget to tap off!