How to Get from Gyeongju to Busan (with Photos & Costs)

Getting from Gyeongju to Busan is straightforward, and there are three main ways to do it: train, bus, or taxi.

I’ve made this trip a few times now and have a clear favorite option.

Here’s a breakdown of each method, including my recommendation for the easiest way to travel.

Free printable of 37 things to do in Busan 🇰🇷

SEND ME THE CHECKLIST

Loading…

Done!

Check your email for your Busan bucket list.

All Ways to Get to Busan — Train, Bus or Car

You can either take the high-speed KTX train, express bus, or by car to get from Gyeongju to Busan.

While the train is fastest, an express bus is more convenient.

*Estimate costs. Prices may vary

1. By Express Bus (Recommended)

📲 Book your express bus ticket to Busan

While the bus takes longer than train, I recommend taking the express bus to get from Gyeongju to Busan.

The Gyeongju bus terminals are in downtown Gyeongju, where you’re most likely staying.

If your trip is less than a month away, you can buy a bus ticket from Klook.

There are two buses you can take from Gyeongju to Busan:

1. Gyeongju bus that stops at Haeundae Bus Terminal in Busan
2. Gyeongju bus that stops at Busan Bus Terminal

🎫 Checking the Bus Schedule in Advance

You can the schedule and seat availability on txbuse.t-money.co.kr; you just can’t buy a ticket online unless you have a local Korea bank card.

You can always go a few days earlier to buy a ticket in person.

Two Bus Stations in Gyeongju: Which One to Take

There are two bus stations in Gyeongju that are right next to each other: 1) Gyeongju Intercity Bus Terminal and 2) Gyeongju Express Bus Terminal.

The older bus station sells tickets that are slightly cheaper, but I recommend taking the bus from the Gyeongju Intercity Bus Terminal if staying in Haeundae.

To differentiate, this intercity bus terminal looks newer, has a convenience store inside, and there will be self-service ticket kiosks near the entrance.

The ticket from Gyeongju to Busan costs around 10,500 won ($7.80 USD) and will take one hour.

It will stop at the Haeundae Bus Terminal, which is ideal if you’re staying in Haeundae.

Instructions:

1. Go inside the station and either buy a ticket at the counter or on a ticket kiosk. If on the kiosk:
2. Switch language to English.
3. Select Haeundae Station in Busan.
4. Pay with cash or card.
5. Go outside where the benches are and look for your bus number listed on your ticket. The blue signboard will also list the destination.

I mistakenly bought a ticket here first. While the bus still went to Busan, it stops in Busan Bus Station, which is farther from Haeundae where I was staying.

Thankfully I bought my ticket the day before and realized it in time to get another ticket at the other bus station.

Instructions:

1. Go inside the station and buy a ticket at the counter. There are no kiosks.
2. Ask for a ticket to Busan.
3. Pay with cash or card.
4. Go outside where the benches are and look for your bus number listed on your ticket.

If you take the train, the train station is located in Gyeongju Station (used to be called Singyeongju Station), but the train station is farther from Gyeongju city center.

The correct Google address for the station is still listed as Singyeongju Station.

From downtown Gyeongju, take an additional 15-30 minute bus or taxi to get to the Gyeongju / Singyeongju station.

The train from Gyeongju to Busan KTX station takes about 30 minutes and the price will vary on when and where you buy it.

3. By Rental Car

🚙 Rent a car in South Korea for as cheap as $28 USD a day

The driving distance from Gyeongju to Busan is about 70 kilometers (about 43 miles). The actual travel time will vary on traffic conditions and route you take.

On average it takes around 1-1.5 hours.

Use Naver or Kakao Maps for directions. Do not use Google Maps, as it is not optimized for South Korea.

Check prices for car rentals in South Korea.

4. Via Busan Tours

Return Trip — How to Go from Busan Back to Gyeongju

If you’re going back to Gyeongju from Busan, or starting from Busan to Gyeongju, you can also purchase express bus tickets to Gyeongju, which will take you to the bus terminal in central Gyeongju.

If you choose to take the train from Busan to Gyeongju, you will have to take a taxi or bus from the Gyeongju train station to central Gyeongju.

Follow similar directions in my Seoul to Gyeongju blog.

Summary: Best Way to Get from Gyeongju to Busan

I recommend taking the bus since the bus stations are located in Gyeongju city center, especially if you are staying in Haeundae or near the Busan Station.

However, if you want to take the KTX, taking a taxi instead to the train station would still be quick and convenient!

More Busan Posts

• 13 Free Things to Do in Busan (Popular + Underrated Spots!)
• The Best Busan Itinerary for 2-5 Days
• 5 Things to do in Gwangalli Beach at Night
• 5 Best Beaches in Busan (+ Events to Look Out For)
• Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan: Travel Tips & How to Get Here