South Korea’s Public Transport Card Tmoney is Finally Integrating With Apple Pay

Getting around South Korea is already a smooth experience, thanks to its efficient and extensive public transport system. But for iPhone and Apple Watch users, it’s about to get even easier. Tmoney, the country’s go-to transit card, will finally be usable through Apple Pay. 

Also read: Seoul Subways Run Earlier From August 2025: What This Means for Travellers

Getting around Korea is about to get a lot easier

A new update is making waves in South Korea’s transport scene: Tmoney, the country’s leading rechargeable transit card, is soon to be integrated with Apple Pay. After implementation, you’ll be able to tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to hop on the subway or catch a bus, no physical card required.

While Apple Pay launched in Korea in 2023, support for public transport payments has been notably absent until now. 

With this long-awaited feature, navigating Korea’s efficient public transport system is about to become more seamless for both residents and visitors.

First, what is Tmoney?

Tmoney is Korea’s most widely used rechargeable transit card. It can be used on subways, buses, and even taxis in most major cities, including Seoul, Busan, and Daegu.

Traditionally, users would purchase a physical Tmoney card and top it up at stations or convenience stores. But with mobile integration, these steps could happen digitally, eliminating the need to carry a separate card or cash.

The update: Tmoney joins the Apple Pay ecosystem

According to recent reports, the feature will work with both iPhones and Apple Watches equipped with NFC functionality.

Once the integration goes live, users can add a Tmoney transit card to their Apple Wallet and use it directly at fare gates and on buses, just as they would with a physical card. This also opens the door to digital top-ups within the app, offering a smoother, cashless experience.

Why it took so long and what’s changed

Korea’s Tmoney system required significant updates before it could come on board Apple Pay. For one, Tmoney’s infrastructure wasn’t initially compatible with EMV-based payments, the technology Apple Pay uses. 

Transit operators also expressed concerns about transaction fees, particularly in comparison with Samsung Pay, which has long supported public transport payments in Korea through its proprietary system.

However, with infrastructure upgrades now in motion and contactless payments more widely adopted, the timing is finally right. Apple Pay’s broader momentum in Korea has also helped lay the groundwork. While ticket machines still lag behind, Korail recently introduced Apple Pay mobile payments at its counters as well. 

In addition to the Apple Pay integration, Tmoney is also planning to pilot a new Bluetooth-based payment system on select bus routes. With this feature, users who have the Tmoney app installed and Bluetooth enabled can have their fare automatically deducted when they board a bus, no tapping or scanning required.

This ultra-contactless experience is being rolled out gradually, starting with selected routes in Seoul, and shows how Korea is pushing for even greater convenience in daily commutes.

When is it launching?

There’s no confirmed launch date yet, but both Tmoney and Apple have confirmed that the integration is on its way. Reports suggest the rollout is imminent, and iPhone users can expect an official announcement soon.

Also read: Best Korea Travel Apps to Download For Your Trip in 2025

A quick look at payment options for visitors

South Korea has a relatively cash-light economy, especially in urban areas. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payments such as Samsung Pay, Naver Pay, and Kakao Pay are commonly used by locals.

For public transport, options include:

Tmoney Cards

Available at convenience stores (GS25, 7-Eleven, CU, Emart24), subway stations, and vending machines at Incheon Airport, and can be recharged at subway station kiosks or convenience stores. 

The card is accepted on subways, buses, taxis, and some convenience stores across South Korea.

Korea Tour Card

This is a special version of the Tmoney card designed for tourists. It offers all the usual Tmoney benefits plus extra discounts at popular attractions, restaurants, and shops around the country. 

The Korea Tour Card can be purchased at major airports, tourist centres, and convenience stores, and comes with options for single or multiple days.

Seoul Climate Card

A prepaid card offering unlimited rides on Seoul’s subways and buses for 1, 2, 3, or 5 days. It’s perfect for short-term visitors wanting to explore Seoul in particular. Available at tourist centres and subway stations.

Also read: Seoul Bus Guide for Tourists: How to Ride, What the Colours Mean & Why It’s Worth It

Tap in and out of South Korea conveniently

Though we’re still waiting on an official launch date, the addition of Tmoney to Apple Pay is a welcome step forward. 

Whether you’re commuting daily or navigating Seoul’s maze-like metro for the first time, having the option to pay with your phone offers a level of convenience that’s hard to beat. Stay tuned for the upcoming implementation!