Seoul to Jeonju - Train or Bus? Top Tips for Tickets and Travel

Tucked away in the heart of South Korea, Jeonju is a vibrant city where tradition and modern life blend seamlessly. Known for its bibimbap and home to one of the country’s best-preserved hanok villages, Jeonju offers travellers a rich cultural experience without the overwhelming pace of city life. Whether you're here for the food, the architecture, or just to slow down and soak in some authentic Korean culture, Jeonju is the kind of place that invites you to linger just a little bit longer.

Korea Train Express, or more commonly known as KTX, is one of the most reliable modes of transportation for intercity travel. It's known to be super fast too— the journey from Seoul to Jeonju only takes around 1 hour and 53 minutes! The efficiency, speed, and comfort of the KTX train make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to going on a day trip to Jeonju.

The KTX service between Seoul and Jeonju is part of the Jeolla line, and it operates multiple times daily, ensuring flexibility and convenience for travellers. Whether you’re planning a spontaneous trip or a meticulously organized tour, the frequent service allows you to choose a travel time that best fits your itinerary.

Purchasing KTX train tickets is convenient, with several options available to suit your needs. Tickets can be purchased via the KORAIL website or app. For those who prefer in-person transactions, ticket counters at the train station offer assistance with both purchasing and printing tickets.

A KTX train ticket from Seoul to Jeonju is priced at approximately ₩34,600 (as of May 2025) for an economy class seat, while a first class seat costs around ₩48,400.

Alternatively, you can book your ticket hassle-free through Klook! Make the most out of your trip with this KTX train ticket combo that comes with either a Seoul Sky Lotte Tower entrance ticket, Jeonju hanbok rental, a Shinsegae Duty Free voucher, or an Olive Young cash voucher.

If you're planning on visiting more than 1 city outside of Seoul, we suggest opting for the KORAIL Pass which grants you access to unlimited rides on all KORAIL trains, including the KTX!

Another great option is to travel to Jeonju via bus. Although it'll take longer to arrive at your destination (approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes), bus rides are a more affordable way to travel between cities.

Buses depart regularly for Jeonju, with services generally starting around 5:30 AM and running until about 11:30 PM. This wide range of operating hours offers flexibility, allowing you to choose a departure time that best fits your schedule.

The buses in South Korea are very punctual, so we suggest arriving at least 10 minutes before departure. Your bus will also stop briefly at a rest area halfway through the journey - be aware of the break time (it's typically around 15 minutes), and be sure you're back in the bus on time!

Buying bus tickets is a pretty straightforward process. You can purchase tickets directly at the bus terminals on the day of travel! However, during peak travel times or holidays, it’s advisable to book your tickets in advance to secure your seats and avoid any last-minute hassles.

Booking tickets online on KOBUS is also an option. That being said, online bookings require a Korean phone number, which may lead to some difficulties for visitors.

Bus tickets to Jeonju are priced at around ₩22,000, making it the most affordable option for intercity travel.