Hello, everyone!
If you’re living in or traveling around Korea, having a reliable transportation card is a must to efficiently use public transit.

Today, we’ll compare two notable transportation cards in Korea: the Climate Card and the K-Pass.
Each card offers unique benefits, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and lifestyle.

---

1. K-Pass (Gyeonggi Pass): A Refundable Transportation Card

: If you frequently use public transit beyond Seoul, the K-Pass is a great option for you!

Key Details

• Eligibility: Public transit users of all ages (Youth category: 19–34 years old).
• Usage Coverage: Nationwide public transportation, including buses, subways, Shinbundang Line, express buses, and GTX lines.
• Exclusions: Long-distance/intercity buses (e.g., express and high-speed buses), KTX, and SRT trains requiring separate tickets.
• Benefits:
  Earn cashback based on monthly usage:
  • General users: 20%
  • Youth (19–34): 30%
  • Low-income households: 53%
    Cashback is deposited to your linked credit card account by the 7th business day of the following month.

How to Use

1. Get a K-Pass Card: Apply for and receive your K-Pass.
   – Apply for a K-Pass through your primary bank or credit card bank company.
   * It would be best to visit a bank branch near your university or workplace to inquire about applying for a K-Pass first.
2. Sign Up for Membership: Register on the K-Pass website or app.
3. Use and Receive Cashback: Use your K-Pass for public transit, and cashback will be automatically calculated and deposited monthly.
   
   

---

2. Climate Card(Seoul): Unlimited Public Transit Pass

: If you primarily use public transportation in Seoul, the Climate Card is your best choice!

Key Details

• Eligibility: Public transit users of all ages in Seoul (Youth category: 19–39 years old).
• Usage Coverage:
  • Seoul subway lines, Gimpo Goldline, city buses, town buses, and bike-sharing services Ttareungi(따릉이).
• Exclusions:
  • Shinbundang Line, subways outside Seoul, express/airport buses, and buses licensed in other regions.
• Benefits:
  • Unlimited access with a 30-day pass.
• Pricing:
  • Including Ttareungi(따릉이):
    • General: 65,000 KRW
    • Youth (19–30): 58,000 KRW
  • Excluding Ttareungi(따릉이):
    • General: 62,000 KRW
    • Youth (19–39): 55,000 KRW
• Special Features:
  • Short-term pass options available.

• Card Types: Mobile and physical cards.
  1. Mobile Card:
     • Download the “Mobile T-Money” app.
     • Register and issue a Climate Action Card.
     • Recharge and use directly from your phone.
  2. Physical Card:
     • Purchase at Seoul Metro stations (Lines 1–8) or nearby convenience stores.
     • Register on the T-Money Card & Pay website by scanning the QR code on the back of the card.
     • Recharge at subway station kiosks.

---

Choosing the Right Card for You

Both cards are excellent choices depending on your situation:

• K-Pass: Ideal for those traveling beyond Seoul or across multiple regions. Cashback makes it a cost-effective option for frequent users.
  
• Climate Card: Perfect for Seoul residents or commuters who primarily use public transit in the city. The unlimited usage makes it highly convenient and budget-friendly.

---

Korea’s public transportation system is highly efficient and convenient.
No matter which card you choose, you’ll enjoy smoother and more economical travel tailored to your needs. 😊Happy travels in Korea!