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How to get from Gyeongju to Seoul
The fastest way from Gyeongju to Seoul is the KTX high-speed train from Gyeongju Station (formerly Singyeongju) to Seoul Station, about 2 h to 2 h 30. The cheapest is the express bus, about 4 h. SRT trains also run to Suseo in southern Seoul.
Best option: Train. KTX trains are frequent and take roughly half the time of the bus.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| train KTX from Gyeongju Station (formerly Singyeongju) to Seoul Station; SRT trains to Suseo | about 2 h to 2 h 30 | frequent through the day | about KRW 45,000–55,000 | Gyeongju Station is outside the town centre; buses link it with the centre in about 20–30 minutes. |
| bus Express buses from Gyeongju Express Bus Terminal to Seoul | about 4 h, longer in weekend traffic | many a day | about KRW 25,000–35,000 | The terminal is in central Gyeongju, close to the historic sites. |
| car Expressways via Daegu | about 4 h to 4 h 30 | fuel plus expressway tolls of about KRW 15,000–20,000 | Weekend and holiday traffic into Seoul is heavy. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Book KTX tickets ahead on Korail's website or app, especially at weekends and holidays.
- The Korea Rail Pass covers KTX, but not SRT trains.
- Allow time for the bus between Gyeongju Station and the town centre.
- Avoid travel on Chuseok and Lunar New Year holidays unless booked well ahead.
Common questions
How long is the train from Gyeongju to Seoul?
About 2 h to 2 h 30 by KTX from Gyeongju Station to Seoul Station. SRT trains run to Suseo in southern Seoul in a similar time. The station is outside the town, so add about 20–30 minutes by local bus or taxi from central Gyeongju.
Can I do a day trip from Seoul to Gyeongju?
Yes, by KTX. Leave Seoul early, and you can see Bulguksa, Daereungwon and the Cheomseongdae area before an evening train back. The sites are spread out, so use taxis or tour buses. Staying overnight lets you see the illuminated Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond.
What is the cheapest way from Gyeongju to Seoul?
The express bus, about KRW 25,000–35,000, taking about four hours from the central Gyeongju terminal. The KTX costs more, roughly KRW 45,000–55,000, but is much faster. A Korea Rail Pass, sold to foreign visitors, can cut costs if you take several KTX trips.
Do I need to book the KTX ahead?
It is wise on Friday evenings, weekends and public holidays, when trains sell out. On weekdays you can usually buy on the day. Book through Korail's website or app, or at station machines. During Chuseok and Lunar New Year, book as early as tickets open.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.