Jeju Buses Now Accept Visa Cards: A Complete Guide for Foreign Tourists

If you’ve ever visited a new country and found yourself fumbling with local transportation cards, Jeju Island has just made your life a whole lot easier. Starting this month, foreign tourists can hop on buses across the island using their own Visa cards, just like they would back home! It is now made possible with the Open-loop Transit System.

Also read: Jeju Island Restaurants: Where & What to Eat in Jeju, South Korea

What is the Open-loop Transit System?

Visa recently announced the launch of the Open-loop Transit system on Jeju buses, marking the first time Korea has applied a global-compatible payment system to its public transportation. This initiative is part of Jeju’s push to modernise its payment infrastructure.

Why this matters for tourists

So, what does this mean for you as a traveller? Convenience! The system works with all cards that follow the EMV global payment standard, the same technology behind most credit and debit cards worldwide. That means you can pay just by tapping your card, smartphone, or even smartwatch, without worrying about converting money or buying a local transit card.

For international visitors unfamiliar with Korea’s public transport system, it removes a major hurdle, letting you focus on exploring the island rather than figuring out bus fares.

How to use your Visa card on Jeju buses

Using the new system is simple and hassle-free. Just make sure your Visa card supports contactless payments and EMV standards. Most modern credit, debit, and prepaid Visa cards work.

You can ride multiple buses across Jeju without worrying about extra cards or confusing fare systems. It’s as easy as tapping and going, just like you would in Singapore.

A global trend comes to Jeju

Jeju isn’t alone in embracing this technology. Cities like London, New York, Hong Kong, and Singapore have been using open-loop transit systems for years. In Asia, the system has rapidly spread, with Beijing, Shanghai, and Manila adopting it on major public transport lines. In fact, Visa processed over 2 billion contactless ride payments globally in 2024, more than double the number in 2022.

Other payment options for buses

Besides being able to pay with Visa cards, you will also be able to pay with T-money cards and QR code payment (Zero Pay app).

Also read: South Korea’s Public Transport Card Tmoney is Finally Integrated With Apple Pay

A game-changing upgrade for travellers

For anyone planning a trip to Jeju, this is a small but game-changing upgrade. Imagine hopping on a bus to visit Seongsan Ilchulbong, the scenic waterfalls of Hallim Park, or other Instagrammable spots in Jeju. All without worrying about the correct bus card or fare. Just tap your Visa card and enjoy the ride!

Jeju has always been a magical place for travellers, and now getting around is just as effortless as experiencing its natural beauty.