Global Economic Times

Home > APEC 2025 KOREA GUIDE

How to book a KTX train ticket from Seoul Station to Gyeongju, what to expect when you board, and some essential train etiquette: Global Economic Times Reporter / Updated : 2025-07-28 11:51:04

How to Book a KTX Ticket Online

The most convenient way to book your KTX ticket is through the official Korail website or the KorailTalk app.

1. Using the Korail Website
Website: Go to the official Korail website: www.letskorail.com.
Language: The website has an English version. Look for the language selector (usually at the top right) to switch to English.
Booking:

On the main page, select "Reservation."
Enter your journey details:

Departure Station: "Seoul" (서울)
Arrival Station: "Singyeongju" (신경주) - This is the station you need for Gyeongju. Make sure you select Singyeongju, not Gyeongju.
Date and Time: Choose your desired travel date and approximate departure time.
Search: Click "Search" to see a list of available trains.
Select a Train:

Choose a train with a time that suits your schedule. You can see the travel time, which is usually around 2 hours.
Select your seat type (e.g., General Seat, Special Seat).
Payment:

Enter your passport or ID number as requested.
Complete the payment using an international credit card.
Ticket Confirmation:

After payment, you will receive a confirmation email with your ticket details. You can also save the ticket as a QR code on your phone. You do not need to print a physical ticket.

2. Using the KorailTalk App
Download: Search for "KorailTalk" (코레일톡) on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Booking Process: The process is very similar to the website. You can switch the app language to English and follow the same steps to enter your travel details and complete the payment.

How to Board the KTX Train

Boarding a KTX train is simple and efficient.

1. Arriving at Seoul Station
Location: Seoul Station is a major transportation hub. Arrive at least 20-30 minutes before your departure time to find your way to the platform.
Check the Board: Look for the large electronic departure boards to find your train number and platform number. The destination will be listed as "Singyeongju" (신경주).

2. Finding Your Platform
Platform Level: KTX platforms are typically located on the ground floor or a designated KTX platform area. Follow the signs for "KTX" and your platform number (e.g., "Platform 11").
No Ticket Gates: There are no physical ticket gates for KTX. You can proceed directly to your platform.

3. Boarding the Train
Locate Your Car: On the platform, there will be signs indicating where each train car (numbered 1 to 18) will stop. Find the sign for your car number.
Find Your Seat: Once on the train, find your seat number. The car and seat numbers are clearly marked. The train will depart exactly on time, so be punctual.

Essential KTX Etiquette

Keep it Quiet : KTX trains are generally very quiet. Use headphones for music or videos, and keep your phone calls short and in a low voice. If you need to have a long conversation, you can use the vestibule area between the cars.
Respect Your Fellow Passengers:

Reclining Seats : Be considerate when reclining your seat. Do it slowly and be mindful of the person behind you.
Luggage : Place large luggage in the designated racks at the ends of the car or in the overhead compartments. Do not block the aisles.
Food and Drink : You are allowed to eat and drink on the KTX. However, please be considerate of others. Try to avoid foods with strong odors.
Clean up after yourself and use the trash receptacles provided.
Boarding and Alighting:

Wait for passengers to exit the train before you try to board. This is a common courtesy to ensure a smooth flow o