KTX (Korea Train Express) is South Korea’s high-speed train operated by Korail (Korea Railroad Corporation) 🚄. It was first launched in 2004 and has since become an icon of modern transport in Korea. The train can reach speeds up to 305 km/h, making it super fast to travel between major cities. As a Malaysian traveller, I found it really convenient and efficient to get around Korea quickly using KTX.
🗺️ Overview of South Korea’s Train Map
South Korea has one of the most efficient and well-connected rail networks in the world. As a Malaysian traveller, I was impressed by how easy it was to travel across the country—from big cities and tourist hotspots to rural towns and coastal areas. Most train lines are centered around Seoul and extend to almost every part of the Korean Peninsula.
🔝 Major Train Lines in South Korea
🚄 Line Name | 🛤️ Main Route | 🚆 Train Types | ℹ️ Description |
|---|---|---|---|
Gyeongbu Line | Seoul – Daejeon – Daegu – Busan | KTX, SRT, Mugunghwa | Busiest and most important line |
Honam Line | Yongsan (Seoul) – Iksan – Gwangju – Mokpo | KTX, Saemaeul | Connects to the southwest region |
Jeolla Line | Yongsan – Jeonju – Suncheon – Yeosu | KTX, Mugunghwa | Southern route heading southeast |
Gangneung Line | Seoul – Gangneung | KTX | To the east coast and ski resorts |
Gyeongjeon Line | Busan – Jinju | Mugunghwa, partially KTX | Southern regional route |
Jungang Line | Seoul – Wonju – Danyang – Andong | ITX, Mugunghwa | Mountain and historical route |
AREX | Incheon Airport – Seoul | AREX Express & All-Stop Trains | Airport connection to central Seoul |
Top Things to do in South Korea
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🚄 KTX Gyeongbu Line – South Korea’s Main High-Speed Route
The Gyeongbu Line is the busiest and most important rail route in South Korea. It connects Seoul, the capital city, to Busan, the country’s largest southern port city, covering a distance of about 417 km.
As a Malaysian traveller, I found this route super convenient—it’s fast, reliable, and perfect for getting between two of Korea’s most iconic cities.
🛤️ Main Stops on the Gyeongbu Line
Station | City |
|---|---|
Seoul Station | Seoul |
Yongsan Station | Seoul (some routes) |
Gwangmyeong | Southern Seoul |
Cheonan–Asan | Cheonan |
Daejeon | Daejeon |
Dongdaegu | Daegu |
Gupo / Busan Station | Busan |
🚄 KTX Honam Line – The Express Route to Korea’s Southwest
The Honam Line links Seoul to Mokpo, passing through major cities in the Jeolla provinces like Gwangju and Jeonju.
If you’re interested in Korean culture, beautiful scenery, and delicious local food, this line is perfect for exploring the southwest region.
🛤️ Main Stops on the Honam Line
Station | City/Province |
|---|---|
Yongsan Station | Seoul |
Gongju | Chungcheong |
Iksan | Jeollabuk-do |
Jeongeup | Jeongeup |
Gwangju Songjeong | Gwangju |
Naju | Naju |
Mokpo Station | Jeollanam-do |
🚄 KTX Jeolla Line – A Peaceful Route to Nature & Culture
The Jeolla Line runs from Yongsan Station in Seoul to Yeosu Expo Station, stopping at charming cities like Jeonju, Namwon, and Suncheon.
This is an ideal route if you’re looking to experience a more traditional, laid-back side of South Korea with rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty.
🛤️ Main Stops on the Jeolla Line
Station | City/Region |
|---|---|
Yongsan Station | Seoul |
Iksan | Jeollabuk-do |
Jeonju | Jeonju |
Namwon | Namwon |
Gokseong | Gokseong |
Suncheon | Suncheon |
Yeosu Expo Station | Yeosu (Jeollanam-do) |
🚄 KTX Gangneung Line – Quick Access to the Coast & Winter Fun
The Gangneung Line connects Cheongnyangni Station (in Seoul) to Gangneung on Korea’s east coast. It’s especially popular in winter, providing fast access to ski resorts and former Winter Olympics venues like Pyeongchang and Yongpyong. ❄️
I personally loved the snowy scenery and the smooth, direct ride.
🛤️ Main Stops on the Gangneung Line
Station | Area |
|---|---|
Cheongnyangni | Seoul |
Pyeongchang Station | Pyeongchang (Gangwon-do) |
Jinbu (Olympic Station) | Near Alpensia/Yongpyong |
Gangneung Station | Gangneung (Gangwon-do) |
🚄 KTX Gyeongjeon Line – Southern Route from Busan to Jinju
The Gyeongjeon Line connects Busan to Jinju, passing through key cities in the southern region.
It’s not as busy as the Gyeongbu Line, but for regional travel in Gyeongsangnam-do, this is a great option.
🛤️ Main Stops on the Gyeongjeon Line
Station | City/Area |
|---|---|
Busan Station | Busan |
Changwon Station | Changwon (industrial hub) |
Masan Station | Masan (port area) |
Jinju Station | Jinju (cultural city) |
🚄 KTX Jungang Line – Through Korea’s Mountain Heartland
Jungang means “central,” and this line really does run through Korea’s mountainous middle. From Seoul to Andong, this scenic route passes through historical cities and lush landscapes.
It’s perfect for travellers from Malaysia who want to explore cultural heritage and nature away from the crowds.
🛤️ Main Stops on the Jungang Line
Station | Area |
|---|---|
Cheongnyangni Station | Seoul (eastern hub) |
Wonju Station | Gangwon-do |
Jecheon Station | Chungcheongbuk-do |
Yeongju Station | Gyeongsangbuk-do |
Andong Station | Historic cultural town |
🚄 KTX AREX Line – Airport Express from Incheon to Seoul
AREX (Airport Railroad Express) links Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo Airport directly to downtown Seoul.
What makes this route unique is that some KTX trains also run through it, allowing you to go straight from Incheon Airport to cities like Daejeon or Busan without changing trains—super convenient after a long flight!
🛤️ Main Stops on the AREX Line
Station | Purpose |
|---|---|
Incheon Airport T1 & T2 | International arrivals & departures ✈️ |
Gimpo Airport Station | Domestic airport transfer |
Hongdae (Hongik Univ.) | Youth culture & nightlife hub |
Seoul Station | Main KTX hub for nationwide travel 🚄 |
Recommended Hotels in Seoul
🚅 Choosing the Right KTX Route for Your Korea Adventure – A Guide for Malaysian Travellers
Planning to explore South Korea by KTX? Here's a simple guide to help you pick the best route based on the cities and attractions you want to visit. I found KTX incredibly efficient and comfy—it made getting around Korea a breeze!
🏙️ Seoul – The Starting Point of Most KTX Routes
🔹 KTX Lines: All major lines start here
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Bukchon Hanok Village
- Myeongdong Shopping Street
- N Seoul Tower
- Hongdae & Itaewon for nightlife
🏖️ Busan – Coastal Charm & Culture
🔹 KTX Line: Gyeongbu Line
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Haeundae & Gwangalli Beaches
- Jagalchi Fish Market
- Gamcheon Culture Village
- Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
- Nampo Shopping District & BIFF Square
🏯 Gyeongju – Korea’s Historical Treasure
🔹 KTX Line: Gyeongbu Line (via Singyeongju Station)
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Grotto
- Tumuli Park & ancient Silla tombs
- Anapji Pond
- Cheomseongdae Observatory
- Gyochon Hanok Village
🍱 Jeonju – Food & Traditional Hanok Culture
🔹 KTX Line: Jeolla Line
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Jeonju Hanok Village
- Hanji Paper Museum
- Jeondong Catholic Church
- Famous Bibimbap & Jeonju Choco Pie
- Nambu Night Market
🖼️ Gwangju – City of Art & Democracy
🔹 KTX Line: Honam Line
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Gwangju Art Museum
- Sajik Park & Bukchon Greenbelt
- Yangdong Traditional Market
- May 18 Memorial Park
- Gwangju Biennale Festival
☕ Gangneung – East Coast Romance & Winter Getaway
🔹 KTX Line: Gangneung Line
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Gyeongpo Beach
- Gangneung Coffee Street
- Kim Chojung Literature Museum
- Famous filming spots from the drama Goblin
- 2018 Winter Olympics Venues
🎎 Andong – Preserving Korea’s Traditions
🔹 KTX Line: Jungang Line
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Hahoe Folk Village (UNESCO)
- Andong Mask Dance Festival
- Woryeonggyo Bridge
- Andong Jjimdak Street
- Hahoe Folk Museum
🎇 Jinju – Fortresses & Festivals
🔹 KTX Line: Gyeongjeon Line
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Jinjuseong Fortress
- Namgang Lantern Festival
- Jinju History Museum
- Chokseokru Pavilion
- Namgang Riverside Park
🔬 Daejeon – Science City with Relaxation Spots
🔹 KTX Line: Gyeongbu Line
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Expo Science Park
- Yuseong Hot Springs
- National Science Museum
- Gapcheon River and Night View Bridges
- Dunsan Fashion & Shopping District
🦐 Mokpo – Gateway to the Sea & Islands
🔹 KTX Line: Honam Line
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Yudalsan Mountain & Skywalk
- Mokpo Fish Market
- National Maritime Museum
- Samhakdo Beach
- Ferries to Jeungdo & Heuksando Islands
🌅 Yeosu – Coastal Romance & Night Views
🔹 KTX Line: Jeolla Line
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Dolsan Bridge & Yeosu Night Sea
- Yeosu Expo Tower & Marine Cable Car
- Yeosu Aquarium
- Hyangiram Hermitage
- Yeosu Ocean Festival
✨ Explore South Korea Faster with KTX
As a Malaysian traveller, I can confidently say that the KTX is more than just a fast and comfortable way to get around—it’s your gateway to discovering the many sides of South Korea. Whether you're into culture, food, nature, or city life, the KTX connects it all seamlessly.
With KTX, you can experience:
🌆 Seoul – the heart of Korean pop culture and rich history
🏖️ Busan – a vibrant coastal city full of charm and nightlife
🏯 Gyeongju – a step back into Korea’s royal past
🏘️ Jeonju – the land of hanok villages and delicious bibimbap
🎨 Gwangju – a city of arts, creativity, and democratic spirit
🏔️ Gangneung – perfect for nature lovers and coffee enthusiasts
🎎 Andong – where you can dive into traditional Korean heritage
🎇 Jinju – a city glowing with history and lantern festivals
🔬 Daejeon – a hub of science, innovation, and hot springs
🌊 Mokpo & 🏝️ Yeosu – coastal escapes filled with romance and sea breeze
KTX significantly cuts travel time, so you can explore more places in a single trip without feeling rushed. Whether you're travelling solo, with family, as a history buff, a foodie, or on a romantic getaway—KTX is the perfect way to make the most of your Korean adventure. 💼🗺️
FAQs
How do I read the KTX train map?
The KTX map shows major routes connecting cities across Korea. Just find the line that passes through your destination and check the key stations along the way.What’s the difference between Gyeongbu, Honam, and Jeolla Lines?
Each line covers a different region—Gyeongbu goes from Seoul to Busan, Honam to the southwest like Gwangju, and Jeolla to cities like Jeonju and Yeosu.Can I transfer between lines or to local trains?
Yes, you can transfer easily at major stations like Seoul or Daejeon. AREX also connects Incheon Airport directly to the KTX network.Do I need to book KTX tickets in advance?
It’s better to book early, especially during peak seasons. You can buy tickets online or at the station. For multiple trips, consider the KORAIL Pass for tourists.