KOREAN NET

The Seoul Metropolitan Government from July 1 will launch versions of the mass transit pass Climate Card to allow the unlimited use of public transportation in the capital for set periods. (Seoul Metropolitan Government)

By Hong Angie

Short-term foreign visitors to Seoul this summer can use a public transportation card offering unlimited rides on subway and bus fares in the capital.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government on May 16 said it will launch on July 1 four versions of the Climate Card for tourists on short-term visits.

The new cards will have the following types: KRW 5,000 for one day, KRW 8,000 for two, KRW 10,000 for three and KRW 15,000 for five. Users can ride the subway and city and shuttle buses in the capital without limit.

Foreign tourists in the city can buy the desired card at the tourist information centers at Seoul Tourism Plaza on Cheonggyechon-ro Road in Jongno-gu District and in the shopping district of Myeong-dong, customer service centers at subway stations on Lines 1-8 and convenience stores near such stations. They can add money to their cards at stations depending on schedules.

A plastic version of the card is priced at KRW 3,000. Locals can purchase cards and add money to them or opt for a mobile card on the app T-Money.

Users of the regular 30-day Climate Card can choose its starting date within five days after topping it up, but the short-term versions can be used right away after charging.

Like the regular version, the short-term passes can also be used for a 50% discount on admission to Seoul Science Center and Seoul Grand Park.

The city will provide promotional materials in foreign languages and on an English-language website to allow easy understanding of how to use the cards by foreign tourists.

Deputy Seoul Mayor for City Transport Yoon Jong Jang said. "We'll do our best to solidify the capital's status as a globally attractive city through use of the Climate Card."

shong9412@korea.kr