South Korea Is About to Make Public Transport a Breeze for Tourists, Use Your Visa or Mastercard for Seamless Travel Across Seoul, Busan, and Beyond!

Published on December 16, 2025

South Korea is about to make public transport a breeze for tourists — use your Visa or Mastercard for seamless travel across Seoul, Busan, and beyond! This upcoming change will transform the way international visitors explore South Korea’s bustling cities and scenic landscapes. With a new open-loop payment system set to launch, tourists will soon be able to use their global credit cards to pay for public transportation without the need for separate local transit cards. Whether you’re hopping on the subway in Seoul, cruising along the scenic coastal routes in Busan, or exploring other regions, this change will streamline the travel experience. Set to begin in 2027, this initiative is designed to make travel more convenient, efficient, and accessible, offering a smoother journey for millions of tourists flocking to South Korea every year. With the implementation of this system, South Korea aims to boost its tourism industry, creating a hassle-free experience that will make the country even more attractive to global travelers.

South Korea Is About to Make Public Transport a Breeze for Tourists — Use Your Visa or Mastercard for Seamless Travel Across Seoul, Busan, and Beyond!

South Korea is on the verge of transforming the way international tourists explore its vibrant cities and scenic landscapes. Soon, travelers will be able to use their global credit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, to pay for public transportation, making commuting across Seoul, Busan, and beyond as easy as tapping your card. This innovative move is part of a broader initiative to make South Korea even more tourist-friendly, removing the hassle of purchasing and reloading local transport cards. For those planning a trip to this dynamic country, this is just the beginning of a smoother, more seamless experience.

How This Will Revolutionize Your Korean Vacation in 2027!

South Korea is preparing for a major shift in the way tourists navigate its bustling public transport system. The country is set to roll out a new open-loop payment system that will allow international visitors to use their Visa and Mastercard credit cards for fare payments across public transit networks in cities like Seoul, Busan, and beyond. This means no more waiting in line to buy and reload local transit cards, a common frustration for tourists. Instead, travelers will be able to tap their global credit cards at buses, subways, and even taxis for seamless payments.

As the country moves toward full implementation, likely starting in 2027, this system will not only make travel easier but also pave the way for an increase in tourism. The new initiative is expected to enhance South Korea’s appeal to international visitors, especially those on multi-city itineraries. The convenience of not having to manage multiple transport cards will undoubtedly attract tourists from all over the world.

Seamless Travel Across Seoul, Busan, and Beyond: What Does This Mean for Tourists?

For tourists visiting South Korea, public transportation has always been an essential part of the travel experience. Seoul, the capital, is known for its extensive subway system, while Busan offers scenic coastal routes that are best experienced by bus or tram. However, navigating the existing transit system as an international tourist can sometimes be daunting. From purchasing transport cards to figuring out the reloading process, many travelers have faced confusion and frustration.

With the new open-loop payment system, tourists will no longer need to worry about these logistics. Whether you’re hopping on the subway in Seoul or taking a bus to explore the beautiful beaches of Busan, you can simply tap your Visa or Mastercard to pay. The system is designed to be as easy as possible, allowing visitors to focus more on enjoying their trip rather than dealing with transport hassles.

This initiative is expected to enhance the overall experience for travelers. No longer will visitors need to carry extra cards or cash for transport. Instead, they’ll be able to use the credit cards they already carry, streamlining their journey from the moment they arrive.

The Impact on the Hospitality Industry: Hotels and Resorts Reap the Benefits

As the open-loop payment system takes hold, the hospitality industry in South Korea is poised to benefit greatly. With easier access to public transport, tourists will have more flexibility and freedom to explore the country. Hotels and resorts, particularly those in major cities like Seoul and Busan, can expect to see an increase in bookings as a result. The convenience of accessing transportation with just a swipe of a card will encourage more travelers to stay longer and explore more destinations.

Major hotel chains such as Hilton, Marriott, and InterContinental have already recognized the potential of this development. They understand that hassle-free transportation is a significant factor in a tourist’s decision-making process when choosing a destination. As public transport becomes more accessible, the demand for hotel accommodations is expected to rise, especially in areas near popular tourist attractions and transport hubs.

South Korea’s tourism boards and hotel associations have expressed their excitement about the new payment system, as it aligns with the country’s broader goals of becoming a more accessible destination. The initiative is expected to increase overall tourism spending, with visitors spending more on accommodations, dining, and attractions as they travel more easily within the country.

Airlines to Benefit from a Surge in Tourism

With the implementation of open-loop payments, more international tourists are likely to flock to South Korea, bringing significant benefits to the airline industry. As transportation within the country becomes more convenient, international flights to South Korea are expected to see a surge in bookings, especially from key source markets like the United States, China, Japan, and Taiwan.

Korean Air, South Korea’s flagship airline, is particularly well-positioned to capitalize on this increased demand. As the number of tourists visiting the country grows, airlines will expand routes and increase the frequency of flights. This shift will also benefit other international carriers, such as Asiana Airlines, which is currently one of the top airlines flying into South Korea.

In addition to the increase in inbound traffic, airlines will likely introduce more promotions and packages that cater specifically to tourists looking to explore South Korea’s regions. The convenience of seamless travel within the country will make it easier for travelers to hop from city to city, encouraging them to stay longer and see more. As a result, the airline industry is expecting a significant boost in tourist arrivals.

Flight Details and What You Need to Know

For travelers planning to visit South Korea, there are multiple flight options to consider. Direct flights to Seoul (Incheon International Airport) and Busan (Gimhae International Airport) are offered by a wide range of international carriers, making it easier than ever to plan a trip to the country.

From the United States
Direct flights from major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco are available via Korean Air and Asiana Airlines. These flights typically take around 13-14 hours, depending on the departure city. Both airlines offer a high standard of service, including direct flights to Seoul and onward connections to other cities within South Korea.

From Europe
Travelers from Europe can easily reach South Korea with direct flights from cities like London, Paris, and Frankfurt. Airlines such as Lufthansa, British Airways, and Air France provide regular service to Seoul, making it a convenient destination for European travelers. The flight time from Europe to Seoul is typically around 10-12 hours.

From Japan and China
Flights from neighboring countries like Japan and China are frequent, with carriers such as Japan Airlines (JAL), All Nippon Airways (ANA), and China Eastern offering daily flights to South Korea. These short-haul flights, typically under 3 hours, are perfect for travelers seeking a quick getaway to South Korea’s bustling cities and tranquil countryside.

Travel Tips for Tourists Visiting South Korea

1. Embrace the Technology
   South Korea is known for its cutting-edge technology, and the open-loop payment system is just the beginning. Make sure to download local apps like Naver Maps and KakaoTalk for easy communication and navigation while traveling.
2. Learn Basic Korean Phrases
   Although many South Koreans speak English, especially in urban areas, it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic Korean phrases. Simple greetings like “Annyeonghaseyo” (Hello) and “Kamsahamnida” (Thank you) will go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable.
3. Use the T-money Card for Discounts
   While the new open-loop system will soon replace the need for separate transit cards, the T-money card is still widely used for discounts on buses, subways, and even in stores. Be sure to pick up one if you’re traveling before the full implementation of the open-loop system.
4. Explore Beyond Seoul
   While Seoul is a must-see destination, don’t forget to explore other parts of South Korea. Busan’s beaches, Jeju Island’s volcanic landscapes, and the historical city of Gyeongju offer unique experiences that are just a short train or bus ride away.
5. Pack for All Seasons
   South Korea’s weather can vary greatly depending on the season. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy. Make sure to pack appropriately for the season you’re visiting, and always carry a light jacket for cooler evenings.
6. Stay Connected
   Many hotels and cafes in South Korea offer free Wi-Fi, and it’s easy to rent a portable Wi-Fi device or a local SIM card at the airport. Staying connected will help you navigate public transport, find attractions, and stay in touch with friends and family back home.

Why South Korea is More Accessible Than Ever

As South Korea prepares to roll out its open-loop payment system for tourists, the country is making significant strides toward becoming one of the most accessible destinations for international visitors. Whether you’re flying in from the United States, Europe, or nearby Japan, the ease of using global credit cards for transportation will make exploring South Korea more convenient than ever.

The airline industry will benefit from the surge in tourists, with more flights and promotional packages likely to emerge as demand grows. The hospitality industry, too, stands to gain as more tourists choose South Korea for its accessibility and seamless travel experience. With easy access to public transport, tourists can travel freely between cities, visit remote areas, and fully immerse themselves in the rich culture and history of this fascinating country.

South Korea is about to make public transport a breeze for tourists — soon, you’ll be able to use your Visa or Mastercard for seamless travel across Seoul, Busan, and beyond! Say goodbye to transit cards and hello to hassle-free adventures in one of Asia’s most exciting destinations!

In conclusion, South Korea’s upcoming open-loop payment system is a game-changer for travelers. With seamless transport options, affordable and efficient public transport, and a booming tourism infrastructure, it’s no wonder that more and more visitors are choosing South Korea as their next travel destination. Whether you’re here for the food, the culture, or the stunning landscapes, South Korea promises an unforgettable adventure – and soon, it will be easier than ever to explore all it has to offer.