Busan to Gyeongju Trains

The KTX high speed train is the fastest way to travel from Busan to Gyeongju. Trains take 27 to 35 minutes, and tickets start at $18. The bus takes longer, at about 50 minutes to 1 hour, but it drops you in downtown Gyeongju. Both options make Busan to Gyeongju an easy day trip.

The train from Busan to Gyeongju takes between 27 and 35 minutes. KTX trains typically take 27 to 34 minutes. The fastest trip is 27 minutes, and most departures arrive in 27 min to 34 min.

The distance from Busan to Gyeongju is about 82 km. On the KTX high speed train, that distance takes 27 to 35 minutes.

There are about 41 trains a day from Busan to Gyeongju. Departures run from early morning to late evening, so it’s easy to fit a train from Busan into your travel plans.

The KTX train, Korea's high speed rail service operated by Korail, runs on the Gyeongbu Line between Busan and Seoul. It stops at Singyeongju Station on the way. KTX high speed trains offer comfortable seats, luggage space and a smooth journey.

Trains depart from Busan Station, located in Dong-gu. Busan Station is the southern terminus of the Gyeongbu Line and one of the city's most impressive transport hubs, with a bright, modern concourse filled with natural light. It's easy to reach by Busan Metro Line 1, and the station has cafes, shops and a lively atmosphere.

KTX trains arrive at Singyeongju Station, which is located outside the Gyeongju city center. From the station, local buses and taxis take you to downtown Gyeongju, Bulguksa Temple and other major sites in about 20–30 minutes.

Train tickets from Busan to Gyeongju start at $18. The price depends on the departure time, seat class and how early you book. Tickets for weekends and holidays can sell out, so plan ahead.

You can book train tickets on the Rail Ninja website or app. Choose your date and departure, compare KTX train schedules, and buy tickets in minutes. Rail Ninja is designed for international travelers, with English support and simple online payment.

Buy tickets a few days ahead, especially for weekends, holidays and cherry blossom season, when trains fill up quickly. Booking early helps you save time on the day and secure the departure you want.

Yes. Buses depart every 30 minutes from Busan Central Bus Terminal. Bus travel from Busan to Gyeongju takes about 50 minutes to 1 hour, and bus tickets cost around US$6–8 for the journey.

The first train leaves Busan at around 05:19 and the last one at around 22:16. Times can change by season, so check the current timetable before you travel.

KTX trains offer standard class and first class. First class has wider seats and more legroom, while standard class is the more affordable option with comfortable reclining seats.

Passengers can bring luggage at no extra cost and store it on the overhead racks or in the luggage areas at the end of each car. For details, see Rail Ninja’s KTX luggage rules guide.

• Train: Choose the KTX train if you want the fastest trip, at 27 to 34 minutes. Keep in mind that Singyeongju Station is outside the city center.
• Bus: Choose the bus if you want to arrive downtown, close to the historic sites.

Yes. Driving from Busan to Gyeongju takes around 1 hour. A car is useful if you plan to visit sites spread around Gyeongju, but the train and bus are cheaper and easier for most travellers.

Yes. With a train journey of under 35 minutes, Busan to Gyeongju is an easy day trip. You can explore the historic city in a single day, visit its royal tombs and temples, and return to Busan in the evening.

Yes. There are about 41 trains a day from Gyeongju to Busan, and the fastest trip takes 27 minutes. You can book your return train on Rail Ninja at the same time as your outbound trip.

No. After booking on the Rail Ninja website or app, you receive an e-ticket that you can show on your phone. There’s no need to print it.