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🚄 Chuseok Korea Travel Guide 2026: Transportation, Crowds, KTX & Essential Tips

By Richelle (JustKTravel) • Updated Aug 2026

If you are planning a trip to South Korea during Chuseok Korea 2026, one of the biggest questions you might have is:

“Will I still be able to travel around Korea easily during the holiday?”

The short answer is: yes, but you need to plan ahead.

Living in South Korea, I have experienced how different the country feels during major holidays like Chuseok. The streets can become quieter in some areas, while transportation hubs like Seoul Station, bus terminals, and airports become extremely busy.

For locals, Chuseok means traveling back to their hometowns to spend time with family. If you are unfamiliar with Korea’s biggest traditional holiday, I recommend reading my beginner-friendly guide first: What is Chuseok in Korea? A Beginner’s Guide for Tourists (2026), where I explain the meaning behind Chuseok, Korean traditions, and what visitors should expect during this holiday.

For tourists, this creates a very unique travel experience. Some popular attractions become less crowded, but traveling between cities can become more challenging.

If you are visiting Korea for the first time, especially if you are planning to travel between Seoul, Busan, Jeju, or other cities, understanding how transportation works during Chuseok will help you avoid unnecessary stress.

In this guide, I’ll share what you need to know about KTX trains, buses, airports, traffic conditions, and practical travel tips so you can enjoy Korea during Chuseok with more confidence.

🇰🇷 When Is Chuseok 2026 in Korea?

Chuseok 2026 falls on:

📅 September 24–26, 2026 (Thursday–Saturday)

Because Chuseok is one of Korea’s most important public holidays, many Koreans travel several days before and after the official holiday period.

This means transportation can become busy not only during the holiday itself but also:

The days before Chuseok (when people leave Seoul)
The days after Chuseok (when people return)
Weekend periods connected to the holiday

For tourists, the busiest travel period is usually when people are moving between major cities.

🚗 Why Is Transportation More Difficult During Chuseok?

Unlike regular weekends, Chuseok creates one of the largest annual movements of people in South Korea. Millions of Koreans travel to their hometowns, often visiting family in cities and provinces outside Seoul.

Because of this:

🚄 KTX tickets sell out quickly
🚌 Express buses experience heavy demand
🚗 Highways can have long traffic jams
✈️ Airports become busier
🚉 Major stations become crowded

However, this does not mean tourists should avoid Korea during Chuseok.

Actually, there are some advantages:

Seoul can feel less crowded in certain areas
Some cultural attractions offer special Chuseok events
Traditional experiences become more meaningful
Autumn weather is usually comfortable for sightseeing

The key is simply knowing when and how to travel.

🚄 Traveling by KTX During Chuseok 2026

For tourists traveling between major cities, the KTX high-speed train is usually the most convenient option.

Popular routes include:

Seoul → Busan
Seoul → Daegu
Seoul → Gyeongju (via Singyeongju Station)
Seoul → Daejeon
Seoul → Gangneung

Normally, KTX is one of the easiest ways to travel around Korea. However, during Chuseok, demand increases dramatically.

Why KTX Tickets Are Difficult During Chuseok

Many Koreans book train tickets to visit their hometowns, and popular routes can sell out quickly.

The busiest routes are usually:

🚄 Seoul ↔ Busan
🚄 Seoul ↔ Daegu
🚄 Seoul ↔ Gwangju
🚄 Seoul ↔ Jeonju

If you are planning a Seoul and Busan itinerary during Chuseok, I recommend deciding your travel dates early.

For example:

Instead of:

❌ Seoul → Busan on the first day of Chuseok

Consider:

✅ Seoul → Busan before the holiday rush
or
✅ Staying in Seoul during the busiest days and traveling afterward

🎫 How Tourists Can Prepare for KTX Travel

Here are some practical tips based on living in Korea:

1. Avoid Last-Minute Train Booking

During normal periods, you can sometimes buy tickets a few days before traveling.

During Chuseok, I would not recommend this.

Popular trains can disappear quickly, especially:

Morning departures
Friday evening trains
Weekend trains
Seoul–Busan route

For travelers looking for a more budget-friendly option, express buses can be a useful backup when KTX tickets are unavailable. You can compare routes and schedules before your trip, especially if your travel dates overlap with the Chuseok holiday rush.
➡️ Check KTX tickets, Korea rail passes, and train options before your trip

2. Be Flexible With Travel Times

If your preferred train is unavailable, consider:

Early morning trains
Late evening trains
Traveling one day earlier or later

Sometimes changing your schedule by a few hours can make a big difference.

3. Arrive Early at Major Stations

During Chuseok, stations can be much busier than usual.

Allow extra time for:

Finding your platform
Buying snacks or drinks
Navigating crowds
Boarding with luggage

Major stations like:

Seoul Station
Busan Station
Yongsan Station

Can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors during peak periods.

🚌 Express Bus Travel During Chuseok

Express buses are another popular way Koreans travel between cities. They are usually cheaper than KTX, but during Chuseok they can be affected by road congestion.

For example:

A normal Seoul → Busan bus journey may take around 4 hours.

During Chuseok traffic, it can take significantly longer.

The biggest problem is not the bus itself — it is the highway traffic.

When Should Tourists Consider Buses?

Express buses can still be useful if:

✅ KTX tickets are unavailable
✅ You are traveling to smaller cities
✅ You prefer cheaper transportation
✅ Your schedule is flexible

However, if you have limited vacation time, I usually recommend prioritizing trains whenever possible.

For travelers looking for a more budget-friendly option, checking intercity bus schedules before your trip can help you compare prices and travel times. During Chuseok, having a backup transportation plan is especially useful because popular KTX routes may become unavailable.If KTX tickets are unavailable, you can compare express bus routes and schedules as an alternative.

➡️ Check intercity bus options

✈️ Flying During Chuseok

Domestic flights can also become busy during Chuseok, especially for popular routes where many Koreans travel during the holiday period.

Popular routes include:

✈️ Seoul (Gimpo) → Jeju
✈️ Seoul → Busan
✈️ Seoul → other regional airports

If you are planning a Jeju trip during Chuseok, I recommend booking flights earlier than usual because domestic seats can fill up quickly during the holiday rush.

For travelers who prefer flying instead of taking KTX, comparing domestic flight schedules and prices in advance can help you choose the most convenient option.

➡️ Check domestic flights to Jeju and other destinations

For first-time visitors, I also recommend checking transportation options before arriving in Korea. My beginner travel guide covers the basics, including transportation, money, apps, and planning:

👉 First Time in South Korea? Complete Beginner Travel Guide (2026)

🏙️ Traveling Around Seoul During Chuseok 2026

Many first-time visitors worry that Seoul will completely shut down during Chuseok. However, that is usually not the case.

While some smaller family-owned businesses may close for part of the holiday, Seoul remains one of the easiest cities to visit because many tourist areas continue operating. However, opening hours can vary, so it is always a good idea to check before visiting restaurants, cafes, shopping areas, and attractions.

For more details, check my guide:
👉 What’s Open During Chuseok in Korea? Restaurants, Cafes, Shops & Attractions Guide (2026)

In my experience living in Korea, the biggest difference during Chuseok is not that Seoul becomes empty — it is that the atmosphere changes.

Some neighborhoods become quieter as many locals travel to their hometowns, while popular tourist areas such as Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Insadong usually remain lively.

If you are looking for easy activities to enjoy during the holiday, popular Seoul experiences such as hanbok rental, palace visits, and city attractions are good options.
➡️ Seoul activities

📍Convenient Areas to Stay in Seoul During Chuseok

Choosing the right location can make your trip much easier during the holiday. I recommend staying near subway stations or major transportation hubs so you can still explore Seoul even if some local businesses have adjusted holiday hours.

Popular areas for first-time visitors include:

🏨 Myeongdong — Great for shopping, restaurants, and easy access to major attractions
🏨 Seoul Station — Best for travelers planning KTX trips to Busan or other cities
🏨 Hongdae — Good for cafes, nightlife, and a younger atmosphere
🏨 City Hall / Jung-gu — Convenient for palaces, museums, and central sightseeing

Chuseok is a popular travel period, so hotels in convenient areas can become limited earlier than usual.

You can compare accommodation options here:

➡️ Myeongdong hotels
➡️ Seoul Station hotels
➡️ Hongdae hotels

For more details, read my guide:

👉 Best Areas to Stay in Seoul for First-Time Visitors (2026 Guide)

🌊 Traveling Around Busan During Chuseok 2026

Busan can actually be a great choice during Chuseok.

Because many Koreans travel back to their hometowns, some areas may feel less crowded compared with regular weekends.

Popular tourist areas like:

Haeundae Beach
Gwangalli Beach
Gamcheon Culture Village
Jagalchi Market
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

May still have visitors, but the overall atmosphere can feel more relaxed.

However, the biggest challenge is usually getting to Busan from Seoul, as KTX tickets become highly competitive during the Chuseok holiday period.

If you plan to visit Busan during Chuseok:

✅ Book transportation early
✅ Consider staying several nights instead of rushing back and forth
✅ Choose accommodation near subway stations

If you are staying overnight in Busan during Chuseok, choosing a convenient location will make sightseeing much easier.

🏖️ Haeundae — Best for beach views, cafes, and first-time visitors
🚇 Seomyeon — Best for transportation, shopping, and restaurants
🚄 Busan Station — Best for travelers arriving by KTX

➡️ Check Busan hotels during Chuseok

For planning your stay:

👉 Best Areas to Stay in Busan for First-Time Visitors (2026 Guide)

📊 Seoul vs Busan During Chuseok: Which Is Better?

Category	Seoul	Busan
Transportation	Easier local transportation	Easy once you arrive
Crowds	Tourist areas still busy	Usually more relaxed
Attractions	More shopping and indoor activities	Beaches, nature, coastal views
Food Options	More restaurants remain open	Seafood and local restaurants
Best For	First-time visitors	Travelers wanting a slower pace
Chuseok Experience	More cultural events	More relaxing holiday atmosphere

My Recommendation:

For first-time visitors, I would usually recommend:

Stay mainly in Seoul and add Busan only if your transportation is already arranged.

Trying to move between multiple cities during the busiest Chuseok period can create unnecessary stress.

🚉 Local Transportation in Seoul During Chuseok

The good news is that Seoul’s subway system continues operating during Chuseok.

For daily sightseeing, you can still use:

Seoul Subway
Buses
Taxi apps
Walking routes

A transportation card is essential for tourists.

Most visitors choose between:

T-money Card
Climate Card (Seoul only)

For most tourists visiting Korea during Chuseok, I recommend preparing your transportation card before starting your sightseeing days because subway stations and convenience stores can become busy during the holiday period.➡️ Buy T-money Card

Before your trip, you can read:

👉 🇰🇷 T-money Card vs Climate Card Seoul: Which Transportation Card Should You Buy? (2026 Guide)

🚄 Best Transportation Options During Chuseok: Comparison Table

Transportation	Advantages	Disadvantages	Best For
KTX Train	Fast, comfortable, avoids highway traffic	Tickets sell out quickly	Seoul–Busan travelers
Express Bus	Affordable, reaches more cities	Traffic delays possible	Budget travelers
Domestic Flight	Useful for Jeju and longer routes	Airports can be crowded	Jeju travelers
Rental Car	Flexible schedule	Heavy holiday traffic	Families/groups
Subway	Reliable inside Seoul	Not for long-distance travel	City sightseeing

✈️ Airport Travel During Chuseok 2026

If your Korea trip starts or ends during Chuseok, plan extra time for the airport.

Incheon International Airport usually continues operating normally, but travelers should expect:

More passengers
Longer check-in lines
Busy transportation areas
Increased demand for airport transfers

I recommend arriving earlier than you normally would.

For first-time visitors:

👉 How to Get from Incheon Airport to Seoul: Complete Airport Transfer Guide

🚆 AREX and Airport Transportation Tips

The AREX Airport Railroad is still one of the easiest ways to travel between Incheon Airport and Seoul.

Advantages:

✅ Avoids highway traffic
✅ Comfortable with luggage
✅ Predictable travel time
✅ Convenient for solo travelers

Other options include:

Airport limousine buses
Private airport transfers
Taxi

If you have a late-night arrival or lots of luggage, a private transfer can be more convenient.If you arrive during Chuseok or have a late-night flight, a private airport transfer can be a convenient choice, especially if you are traveling with family, large luggage, or after a long international flight. It allows you to avoid navigating crowded transportation areas after landing.

For solo travelers or those arriving during normal hours, the AREX Airport Express is usually the simplest option because it avoids possible highway traffic during busy holiday periods.

➡️ Check AREX Airport Express options

➡️ Private Incheon Airport Transfer options

📱 Essential Apps for Chuseok Travel

During a busy holiday, having the right apps makes a huge difference.

Before arriving, download:

Naver Map
KakaoMap
Papago Translator
Kakao T Taxi
Subway apps

These help you check:

Route changes
Travel times
Restaurant locations
Transportation updates

👉 ✈️📱 15 Essential Apps to Download Before Your Korea Trip (2026 Tourist Guide)

💳 Money & Payment Tips During Chuseok

During holidays, some smaller restaurants and shops may close.

Therefore, I recommend having:

Some Korean won cash
A working international card
Transportation card balance

You can read:

💳 How Much Money to Bring to Korea (2026 Budget Guide for First-Time Visitors)

💳 Cash vs Card in Korea: What Most Travelers Actually Use (2026 Guide)

💸 Best Place to Exchange Money in Korea: Airport vs Myeongdong vs ATM (2026 Guide)

📶 Stay Connected During Your Korea Trip

Having internet access is especially important during Chuseok because you may need to:

Check transportation updates
Translate Korean notices
Find open restaurants
Book taxis

Most tourists choose:

eSIM
Physical SIM card
Pocket WiFi

➡️ Korea eSIM options

Can’t decide? Read my full guide 👉Best SIM Card, eSIM or Pocket WiFi for Korea? (2026 Tourist Guide)

🍂 My Practical Chuseok Travel Tips for Tourists

After living in Korea, these are the things I would personally recommend:

Before your trip, it is also helpful to review my Chuseok Korea 2026: Quick Travel Tips Before You Go 🍂 guide, which covers important things tourists should prepare before arriving, including closures, weather, and holiday planning tips.

1. Avoid Changing Cities During Peak Days

If possible, do not plan:

Seoul → Busan → Seoul

during the busiest Chuseok dates.

Instead:

Explore Seoul first
Stay longer in one destination
Travel between cities before or after the holiday rush

2. 🎟️ Best Korea Activities & Day Tours to Book During Chuseok 2026

Even though transportation is usually the biggest concern during Chuseok, I also recommend planning your activities ahead of time.

During this holiday period, some smaller local businesses may adjust their opening hours, while popular tourist attractions and organized experiences usually follow fixed schedules. For first-time visitors, booking activities in advance can make your itinerary easier and help you avoid wasting time searching for open places.

Here are some popular experiences worth considering during your Chuseok trip:

🍁 Nami Island & Autumn Day Tours

Late September is a beautiful time to explore Korea because autumn colors start appearing in some regions.

A day trip to places like Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm, or nearby countryside attractions can be a great option if you want to enjoy nature outside the busy city. This is especially popular for travelers visiting Korea in late September because the weather is comfortable for outdoor sightseeing.

➡️ Nami Island & autumn day tours

👘 Hanbok Rental & Palace Experience

Chuseok is one of the best times to experience traditional Korean culture.

Wearing hanbok while visiting places like:

Gyeongbokgung Palace
Changdeokgung Palace
Bukchon Hanok Village

can make your Korea trip feel more meaningful, especially during a traditional holiday.

➡️ Hanbok rental experiences

🎢 Theme Parks: Lotte World & Everland

If you are traveling with family or prefer entertainment activities, theme parks are good options during Chuseok.

Popular choices include:

Lotte World Seoul (easy to reach by subway)
Everland (great for a full-day trip)

These attractions are especially useful because they provide a planned activity even when some smaller shops or restaurants may be closed. These are also convenient choices because they are easy to plan as a full-day activity.

➡️ Theme park tickets

🏯 Korean Cultural Experiences

For travelers who want more than sightseeing, consider adding a cultural activity to your itinerary.

Popular experiences include:

Korean cooking classes
Traditional craft workshops
Palace tours
Tea ceremonies
Cultural village experiences

These activities are a great way to understand Korean traditions beyond the usual tourist spots.

➡️ Korea cultural experiences

3. Stay Near Transportation

During Chuseok, convenience matters.

Good locations:

Seoul:

Seoul Station
Myeongdong
Hongdae
City Hall

Busan:

Busan Station
Seomyeon
Haeundae

4. Keep Your Schedule Flexible

Avoid planning every hour.

During holidays, unexpected things happen:

Restaurants may close
Trains may change availability
Attractions may have special schedules

A flexible itinerary will make your trip more enjoyable.

🧳 Chuseok Travel Checklist

Before your trip:

✅ Book accommodation early
✅ Check transportation options
✅ Download Korea travel apps
✅ Prepare eSIM/SIM
✅ Get T-money Card
✅ Carry some Korean cash
✅ Check attraction opening hours
✅ Save offline maps

For a complete preparation list:

👉 Read more here: 🇰🇷 Korea Travel Checklist: Everything You Need Before Your Trip (2026 Guide)

Frequently Asked Questions About Chuseok Travel in Korea

Is Korea closed during Chuseok?

No. Korea does not completely shut down during Chuseok.

Many tourist attractions, convenience stores, cafes, and restaurants continue operating, especially in major cities.

However, some small businesses may close temporarily.

Is Seoul worth visiting during Chuseok?

Yes. Seoul can actually be a good destination during Chuseok.

Tourist areas remain active, and some attractions offer special holiday events.

The main challenge is transportation if you plan to leave Seoul.

Should I avoid traveling to Busan during Chuseok?

Not necessarily.

Busan is a great destination during Chuseok, but you should arrange transportation early because Seoul–Busan routes are highly popular.

Can tourists buy KTX tickets during Chuseok?

Yes, tourists can use KTX.

However, tickets can sell out faster than usual, especially on popular routes.

Booking early and being flexible with travel times is recommended.

What is the best way to travel between Seoul and Busan during Chuseok?

The KTX is usually the best option because it avoids highway traffic.

However, availability is the biggest challenge, so book as early as possible.

Should I rent a car in Korea during Chuseok?

For most first-time visitors, I would not recommend renting a car during peak Chuseok travel days.

Traffic can be extremely heavy, and public transportation is usually more convenient.

Are shops and restaurants open during Chuseok?

Yes, many restaurants, cafes, convenience stores, and tourist attractions remain open during Chuseok. However, some smaller businesses may close or have shorter hours.

For more details, read: What’s Open During Chuseok in Korea? (2026 Guide)

Do I need to book KTX before Chuseok?

Yes. KTX tickets can sell out quickly during Chuseok, especially on popular routes like Seoul–Busan. Booking early and keeping flexible travel times is recommended.

Final Thoughts: Is Chuseok a Good Time to Visit Korea?

Chuseok may sound intimidating at first, but it can actually be a memorable time to experience Korea.

You will see a different side of the country — one where traditions, family gatherings, and cultural experiences become more visible.

The biggest advice I can give is simple:

Plan your transportation early, avoid unnecessary city changes during peak days, and keep your itinerary flexible.

If you prepare properly, Chuseok does not have to make your Korea trip difficult. In fact, it can become one of the most unique times to visit.

Whether you are exploring Seoul’s palaces, enjoying Busan’s coastline, or experiencing Korean autumn, traveling during Chuseok can be a special memory.

Related Korea Travel Guides:

🇰🇷 First Time in South Korea? Complete Beginner Travel Guide (2026)

🇰🇷 Your First 24 Hours in Seoul (2026 Step-by-Step Survival Guide for First-Time Travelers)

🌊☀️ Best Areas to Stay in Jeju for First-Time Visitors (2026 Guide)

🍂 Chuseok Korea 2026: Quick Travel Tips Before You Go

🍽️ What’s Open During Chuseok in Korea? Restaurants, Cafes, Shops & Attractions Guide (2026)

👤 About the Author

Hi, I’m Richelle, the creator of Just KTravel, based in South Korea.

I share simple and practical Korea travel guides from my own experience — including seasonal spots, transport tips, hidden places, and easy itineraries.

I started this blog after visiting Korea as a traveler myself, and now I write to help others plan their trips with less stress and more confidence.

My goal is to make Korea travel easier and more enjoyable for everyone, especially first-time visitors.

💬 Need Help Planning Your Korea Trip?

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Disclosure:

This post may contain affiliate links to services and experiences I recommend based on personal use. If you make a booking through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I really appreciate your support for Just KTravel.

stressed traveller

August 27, 2026 at 4:38 am

Hi Richelle,

Appreciate the blog, but the main tip of booking a KTX Ticket during Chuseok Holidays and just “plan ahead” is not feasible for a foreigner. As you may now, the tickets, normally sold 30 days ahead of time, are blocked for the holidays sold at a certain time period instead of the usual 30 days. While I was quite diligent (I am no stranger to buying concert tickets and figured it was similar) the rules say that you have to be a “member” or “registered” in KTX to book as early as possible if you aren’t disabled or pregnant. This is not possible as a foreigner. The login, or registration, or sign up button is not even available in my browser. I had to buy a flight from Gimpo to Busan.

Now wondering, during Chuseok, how early do I have to be in Gimpo Airport for this domestic flight?