Jeju Island Public Transportation: How to Get Around Without a Car

 

 

Jeju Island Public Transportation: How to Get Around Without a Car

Introduction

Renting a car is the most common way to travel around Jeju Island, but it’s not the only way. Whether you're visiting without a driver’s license, prefer eco-travel, or simply want to avoid driving in a foreign country, Jeju’s public transportation system can get you where you need to go—if you know how to use it. This guide explains how to navigate the island like a local using buses, apps, and smart planning.

1. Understanding Jeju’s Bus System

Jeju does not have subways or trains, but its bus network is extensive and surprisingly tourist-friendly. There are three main types of buses:

• Blue Buses (Express): Connect major cities and regions quickly.
• Green Buses (Local): Stop at smaller towns, beaches, and rural areas.
• Yellow Buses (Tourist Loops): Operate around Jeju City or Seogwipo for short distances.

Each bus is numbered, color-coded, and labeled in both Korean and English. Buses are clean, air-conditioned, and very safe. The only downside: some routes are infrequent in rural areas.

2. Must-Have Apps for Non-Korean Speakers

• Naver Map: The most accurate app for Jeju. Use the bus tab for real-time schedules and stop locations.
• KakaoMap: Great for route planning. It supports English and includes walking directions.
• Papago: Translation app to ask drivers or read Korean-only signs.

Tip: Avoid using Google Maps—it lacks reliable data for Korean public transport.

3. How to Pay for the Bus

• T-money Card: Prepaid transit card usable on all buses. Buy it at the airport or any convenience store (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven).
• Cost per ride: KRW 1,300–3,000 depending on distance. Transfers within 30 minutes are often free.
• Cash: Accepted, but exact change is required. Drivers don’t give change. (Not recommended)

Important Notes for Using T-money Cards on Jeju Island

1. Tag Your Card When Boarding and Exiting

• On all Jeju city and intercity buses, you must tap your transportation card on the card reader both when getting on and off the bus. This ensures you are charged the correct fare based on your travel distance.
• If you forget to tap when exiting, you may be charged the maximum fare or face additional charges on your next ride.
• Transfer discounts (between buses) are only applied if you tap your card when both boarding and exiting.

2. How to Buy a T-money Card

• You can easily purchase a T-money card at convenience stores (CU, GS25, etc.) inside Jeju Airport and throughout Jeju City.
• Cards are also available at bus terminals and some convenience stores near tourist attractions.
• The card itself usually costs between 2,500 and 4,000 KRW. You can load (top up) any amount you wish onto the card.

3. How to Get a Refund for Your T-money Card

• Refunds are available at convenience stores (where you purchased the card) or at customer service centers in Jeju’s main bus terminals.
• A small service fee (up to 500 KRW) may be deducted from your remaining balance.
• Refunds are given in cash.

4. How to Check Your Card Balance

• When you tap your card on the bus, the card reader will display your remaining balance.
• You can also ask staff at convenience stores to check your balance.
• Since Jeju does not have a subway system, you can check your balance in real time by registering your card on mobile apps (such as T-money or KakaoT).

In Jeju, buses are the main form of public transportation, so always remember to tap your card when boarding and exiting, and check your balance regularly. You can buy, recharge, and refund your card easily at convenience stores during your trip.

4. Getting from the Airport Without a Car

Jeju International Airport (CJU) has a dedicated bus terminal right outside the arrivals hall.

• Bus #181: Goes directly to Seogwipo (south coast)
• Bus #101 or 102: Serves the east coast including Hamdeok and Seongsan
• Bus #202: Heads toward the west coast and Hyeopjae Beach

If you’re staying in Jeju City, taxis are cheap (KRW 5,000–10,000 range) and reliable for short distances.

5. How to Travel Between Major Attractions

📍 Jeju City ↔ Seogwipo

Use Express Bus #181 – runs every 20–30 minutes. Takes about 1 hour 30 minutes depending on traffic.

📍 Jeju City ↔ Hallasan Hiking Trails

Seongpanak Trail: Take Bus #781 or 781-1 Gwaneumsa Trail: Take Bus #475 or 475-1

📍 Jeju City ↔ Hamdeok / Seongsan Ilchulbong

Bus #101 goes directly east along the coast. Seongsan takes ~1.5 hours.

📍 Jeju City ↔ Hyeopjae Beach

Bus #202 or #784-1 takes about 1.5 hours with ocean views along the way.

6. Are Taxis Safe and Affordable?

Yes. Taxis in Jeju are metered, clean, and reliable. Most drivers do not speak English, so show your destination in Korean (use Papago or Naver Map). Kakao T app allows you to call a taxi with English instructions and GPS.

• Base fare: Around KRW 4,300 for the first 2 km
• Tip: No tipping culture in Korea

7. Should You Join a Day Tour?

If you're short on time or don’t want to figure out bus routes, joining a local Jeju day tour is a great option. Many companies offer:

• East coast / west coast full-day itineraries
• Udo Island ferry and bike rentals
• Hallasan hiking tours

Sites like Klook, Viator, and Trazy have English-language booking for group or private tours.

Notice: Jeju Taxi Daily Rental Information

• The typical daily rental cost for a taxi in Jeju is around 140,000 KRW. Please note that this amount is not fixed and is usually determined through discussion with the driver.
• The price generally includes all expenses such as fuel and insurance.
• Meals for the driver are not included in the rental fee and should be discussed separately.
• If you require a driver who speaks a language other than Korean, the cost may be higher.
• Drivers often provide additional services, such as dropping you off at famous spots, offering explanations about attractions, and recommending popular local restaurants.

8. Local Tips for Smooth Travel

• Start your day early—some buses stop running after 9:00 PM.
• Save your hotel address in Korean for taxis.
• Check bus schedules in advance, especially for remote areas.
• Bring portable Wi-Fi or a local SIM for real-time navigation.
• Be patient—Jeju is slow-paced and buses may run a few minutes late.

Conclusion

You don’t need a rental car to enjoy Jeju’s beauty. With some planning, public buses, taxis, and walking can take you to most of the island’s highlights. Whether you're hiking Hallasan, catching a sunrise at Seongsan, or relaxing on Hamdeok Beach, Jeju is very accessible—even for car-free travelers. Just bring your T-money card, favorite travel app, and a little curiosity.

Guide & Maps