At the A1 level, 버스카드 is a basic noun you need for survival in Korea. It is a combination of '버스' (bus) and '카드' (card), both of which are loanwords from English, making them very easy to remember. You should learn this word alongside simple verbs like '있다' (to have/exist) and '없다' (to not have). For example, '버스카드 있어요?' means 'Do you have a bus card?'. You will also see this word at convenience stores. It is one of the first things a traveler buys. At this stage, don't worry about the complex transfer rules; just focus on the fact that this card is what you use to pay for the bus and subway. You might also learn '하나' (one) to say '버스카드 하나 주세요' (Please give me one bus card). The pronunciation is quite similar to English, but remember that Korean syllables are distinct: Beo-Seu-Ka-Deu.
At the A2 level, you begin to use 버스카드 in more functional sentences. You should learn the verb '충전하다' (to recharge). Phrases like '버스카드 충전해 주세요' (Please recharge my bus card) are essential. You will also learn about the 'transfer' system, called '환승' (hwan-seung). You might understand that you need to '찍다' (tap/tag) the card when you get on and off. At this level, you can describe problems, such as '버스카드를 잃어버렸어요' (I lost my bus card). You are also becoming aware that there are different types of cards, such as those for '학생' (students) or '어린이' (children). You can handle basic interactions at a convenience store or a subway information booth regarding your card balance and basic usage.
At the B1 level, you can discuss the convenience and system of the 버스카드 in more detail. You understand the difference between '선불' (prepaid) and '후불' (postpaid) cards. You can explain the '환승 할인' (transfer discount) system to someone else. You might use the word in more complex grammar structures, such as '버스카드가 없으면 버스를 탈 수 없어요' (If you don't have a bus card, you can't ride the bus - though cash is still technically possible, it's rare and more expensive). You also start using '교통카드' as a more formal alternative. You can navigate the process of registering a card online to track your usage or to get a '소득공제' (income tax deduction) for your transit spending, which is a common topic among working adults in Korea.
At the B2 level, you can talk about the societal impact of the 버스카드 system. You might discuss how the data from card taps is used for '빅데이터' (big data) analysis to improve bus routes and subway schedules. You can use the term in discussions about urban planning or technology, such as the integration of 'NFC' and '모바일 결제' (mobile payments). You understand the nuances of '광역버스' (intercity buses) and how the fare structures differ when using a card. You can also handle more difficult situations, like requesting a refund for a '고장난 카드' (broken card) or disputing a double charge. Your vocabulary includes related terms like '잔액 확인' (checking balance) and '이용 내역' (usage history).
At the C1 level, you can engage in sophisticated discussions about the history and future of the 버스카드. You might compare Korea's transit system with other global cities, using the bus card as a focal point for efficiency and technological adoption. You can talk about the 'K-Pass' or other government-subsidized transit initiatives that are linked to one's 버스카드 usage. You understand the legal and privacy implications of tracking movement through transit cards. You can read news articles about fare hikes or policy changes regarding '대중교통' (public transportation) without difficulty. You might even use the term metaphorically in creative writing or complex social commentary regarding the 'connectedness' of Korean society.
At the C2 level, your mastery of 버스카드 and related concepts is near-native. You can understand highly technical documents regarding the '스마트 카드' (smart card) industry and the protocols used for encrypted transactions. You can participate in debates about the ethics of 'contactless' societies and the potential exclusion of the elderly who may struggle with '모바일 버스카드' (mobile bus cards). You are familiar with the archival history of the transition from '토큰' (tokens) and '회수권' (paper tickets) to the current digital system. You can use the word in any register, from slang-heavy conversations with youth to formal presentations about transportation infrastructure. Your understanding of the word is deeply embedded in the cultural, economic, and technological fabric of South Korea.

버스카드 en 30 secondes

  • A bus card is an essential smart card for using public transport in South Korea.
  • It is used for buses, subways, and taxis, and can be recharged with cash.
  • Tapping the card allows for free or discounted transfers between different lines.
  • It is available as a physical card or as a mobile app on smartphones.
The term 버스카드 (bus-ka-deu) is a quintessential part of modern Korean life, representing far more than just a piece of plastic. Literally translating to 'bus card,' it refers to the prepaid or postpaid smart cards used to pay for public transportation fares throughout South Korea. While its name specifically highlights the bus, these cards are universally integrated into the entire transit ecosystem, including subways, taxis, and even some convenience stores or vending machines. In the context of the South Korean urban landscape, carrying a 버스카드 is as essential as carrying a smartphone. The evolution of this word mirrors Korea's rapid technological advancement; whereas older generations might recall using paper tickets or metal tokens (토큰), the modern era is defined by the seamless 'tap-and-go' culture facilitated by these cards. When you enter a bus in Seoul or Busan, you will immediately notice the card reader near the driver. The act of tapping the card is often described with the verb '찍다' (jjik-da), which originally means to stamp or imprint, but in this context, it refers to the NFC contact.
Physical Form
Most cards are the size of a standard credit card, but they also come in the form of keychains, phone accessories, or are integrated into mobile SIM cards (Mobile T-Money).

편의점에서 버스카드를 충전했어요. (I recharged my bus card at the convenience store.)

The usage of 버스카드 is deeply tied to the 'Transfer Discount' (환승 할인) system. In Korea, if you tap your card when getting off a bus and then board another bus or subway within a certain timeframe (usually 30 minutes), the second leg of your journey is either free or heavily discounted. This economic incentive makes the 버스카드 indispensable for commuters. Beyond the technicality, the word often appears in social contexts, such as when a friend realizes they've lost their card and a companion offers to pay for them using the '2-person' payment feature on their own 버스카드.
Common Brands
T-Money (티머니) and Cashbee (캐시비) are the most recognizable brands, but people still colloquially refer to them all as 'bus cards'.

학생 버스카드는 요금이 더 저렴해요. (Student bus cards have cheaper fares.)

In summary, 버스카드 is the gatekeeper to Korean mobility, a symbol of efficiency, and a mandatory tool for navigating the country's world-class public transport system. Whether you are a student, an office worker, or a tourist, understanding how to buy, recharge, and use this card is step one in your Korean journey.
Using 버스카드 in a sentence requires familiarity with several specific verbs that describe the lifecycle of transportation payment. The most common verb associated with it is '충전하다' (chung-jeon-ha-da), which means 'to recharge' or 'to top up.' Because most 버스카드 are prepaid, you will frequently hear people say '버스카드 충전해야 돼요' (I need to recharge my bus card). Another essential verb is '찍다' (jjik-da). While its literal meaning is to take a photo or to dot, in the world of transit, it means to tap the card on the sensor. You might ask a friend, '버스카드 찍었어?' (Did you tap your bus card?).
Grammar: Object Particle
Since '버스카드' ends in a vowel (드 is often treated as ending in 'eu', but the final sound is 'u'), we use the object particle '를'. Example: 버스카드를 샀어요 (I bought a bus card).

지갑에 버스카드가 없어서 당황했어요. (I was flustered because there was no bus card in my wallet.)

When the balance is low, the card reader will make a different sound or an announcement like '잔액이 부족합니다' (Insufficient balance). In this case, the sentence '버스카드 잔액이 없어요' (There is no balance on the bus card) is used. For those using credit cards with integrated transit functions, they might use the term '후불 버스카드' (postpaid bus card), whereas '선불 버스카드' refers to the standard prepaid ones.
Register: Formal vs Informal
In a formal setting, like at a customer service desk: '버스카드를 분실했습니다' (I have lost my bus card). In an informal setting with friends: '나 버스카드 잃어버렸어' (I lost my bus card).

버스카드는 지하철에서도 쓸 수 있어요. (This bus card can also be used in the subway.)

Furthermore, when paying for multiple people, you would say to the driver: '두 명이요' (Two people, please) before tapping your 버스카드. This triggers the driver to adjust the machine so it deducts two fares. This specific interaction is a common cultural script in Korea.
Compound Words
모바일 버스카드 (Mobile bus card), 어린이 버스카드 (Child bus card), 청소년 버스카드 (Youth bus card).

핸드폰으로 버스카드를 찍으면 아주 편해요. (It's very convenient to tap your bus card with your phone.)

Sentences involving 버스카드 often revolve around daily logistics, making them high-frequency phrases for any learner living in or visiting Korea.
You will hear 버스카드 in a variety of real-world scenarios, primarily focused on transportation hubs and retail environments. The most common location is a '편의점' (convenience store) like GS25, CU, or 7-Eleven. As you walk in, you might hear a customer ask the clerk, '버스카드 충전해 주세요' (Please recharge my bus card). The clerk will then ask, '얼마 충전해 드릴까요?' (How much should I recharge for you?). This interaction is so routine it happens thousands of times a day.
At the Bus Stop
You might hear a tourist or an elderly person asking a passerby, '여기서 버스카드 살 수 있나요?' (Can I buy a bus card here?).

'아, 버스카드 잔액이 모자라네.' ('Ah, my bus card balance is insufficient.')

Inside the bus itself, the word is often spoken by the automated voice system. If a card is not read correctly, the machine might loudly announce '카드를 다시 대 주세요' (Please place the card again). If the card is for a specific demographic, the machine might say '청소년입니다' (It's a youth) or '감사합니다' (Thank you - for adults). These auditory cues are part of the soundscape of Korean cities. In subways, you'll see large machines labeled '교통카드 충전기' (Transportation card recharge machine). While the sign says '교통카드,' most people standing in front of it will still say, '나 버스카드 좀 충전하고 갈게' (I'll just recharge my bus card before we go).
In Schools
Students often discuss their bus card designs, as many cards feature popular K-pop idols or Kakao Friends characters. '내 버스카드 귀엽지?' (My bus card is cute, right?).

'손님, 버스카드 두고 가셨어요!' ('Customer, you left your bus card behind!')

Whether it's the frustration of a lost card or the routine of a morning commute, 버스카드 is a word that echoes through the streets, stations, and shops of Korea, marking the rhythm of daily movement.
For English speakers and other learners, several common mistakes arise when using the word 버스카드 or the object itself. One linguistic mistake is confusing '버스카드' with '신용카드' (credit card). While many Korean credit cards have a built-in 'bus card' function, they are not the same thing. If you are at a convenience store and want to add money to a prepaid card, you must use the term '충전' (recharge). If you say '결제' (payment), the clerk might think you are trying to buy something with the card rather than putting money onto it.
Mistake: Forgetting the Particle
Beginners often say '버스카드 충전해요' which is understandable, but '버스카드를 충전해요' is grammatically complete. In spoken Korean, particles are dropped, but for learners, practicing with '를' helps solidify grammar structures.

Wrong: 버스카드에 돈을 넣다 (Put money in). Better: 버스카드를 충전하다 (Recharge).

A significant practical mistake is failing to 'tap off' (하차 태그). In some countries, you only tap when you enter. However, in Korea, to receive the transfer discount or to avoid being charged the maximum distance fare on your next trip, you must tap your 버스카드 on the reader near the exit door before you step off. Another common error is trying to recharge a 버스카드 with a credit card at a convenience store. Most stores only accept cash (현금) for recharging prepaid cards.
Pronunciation Pitfall
English speakers often pronounce 'Bus' as 'beo-seu' with a very long 'u'. In Korean, '버스' is short and snappy. The '카드' (ka-deu) should also not have a rhotic 'r' sound.

Incorrect: 버스카드 주세요 (Give me a bus card - without context). Correct: 버스카드 하나 살 수 있을까요? (Could I buy one bus card?).

Lastly, learners sometimes forget that child (어린이) and youth (청소년) cards require registration online or at a convenience store with a birthdate to maintain the discounted rate. Using an unregistered youth card will eventually result in it defaulting to the adult fare. Avoiding these mistakes will make your transition into Korean daily life much smoother.
While 버스카드 is the most common colloquial term, several other words are used depending on the level of formality or the specific technology being used. Understanding these nuances helps in sounding more like a native speaker.
교통카드 (Gyo-tong-ka-deu)
Meaning: Transportation Card. This is the more 'correct' or academic term. It is used in official announcements, news reports, and on signage. While '버스카드' focuses on the bus, '교통카드' encompasses all forms of transport.
티머니 (T-money) / 캐시비 (Cashbee)
Meaning: Specific brand names. Much like 'Kleenex' is used for tissues, Koreans often say '티머니 있어요?' instead of '버스카드 있어요?'. T-money is the dominant brand in Seoul, while Cashbee is more prevalent in the Gyeonggi and Busan areas.

'티머니'는 버스카드의 한 종류입니다. (T-money is a type of bus card.)

In more technical or older contexts, you might encounter '승차권' (seung-cha-gwon), which means 'boarding ticket.' However, this is usually reserved for long-distance buses (Express/Intercity) or trains (KTX), where you have a specific seat assignment. For daily city commuting, 버스카드 is the standard.
모바일 교통카드 (Mobile Gyo-tong-ka-deu)
Meaning: Mobile Transportation Card. This refers to using your smartphone (via Samsung Pay, Apple Pay - recently introduced in Korea, or dedicated apps) to tap. Many younger Koreans no longer carry a physical '버스카드'.

요즘은 버스카드 대신 핸드폰을 많이 써요. (These days, many people use their phones instead of a bus card.)

Knowing these alternatives allows you to navigate different social and official situations with ease, whether you're talking to a friend about a cute new keychain card or asking a subway official about a technical issue with your '교통카드'.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

Before the bus card, Koreans used small metal tokens called '토큰'. Students used strips of paper called '회수권'. When the bus card was first introduced, many people were amazed that they could pay without touching the machine, leading to the popularization of '찍다' (to tap).

Guide de prononciation

UK /bʌs kɑːd/
US /bʌs kɑːrd/
In Korean [버스카드], the stress is relatively even across all syllables, but a slight emphasis may be placed on the first syllable '버'.
Rime avec
마스크 (Mask - ma-seu-keu) 데스크 (Desk - de-seu-keu) 가이드 (Guide - ga-i-deu) 사운드 (Sound - sa-un-deu) 보드 (Board - bo-deu) 월드 (World - wol-deu) 필드 (Field - pil-deu) 골드 (Gold - gol-deu)
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing 'Bus' as 'Boos' - it should be 'Beo-seu'.
  • Adding a strong English 'r' to 'Card' - it should be 'Ka-deu'.
  • Merging the syllables - each of the 5 syllables (버-스-카-드) should be distinct.
  • Pronouncing 'deu' as 'dee' - the 'eu' sound is a flat, horizontal vowel.
  • Using a voiced 'b' like English - the 'b' in 'beo' is often slightly unvoiced at the start of a word.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 1/5

Very easy as it is a phonetic loanword from English.

Écriture 2/5

Simple to write, though '드' vs '두' can be a minor point for absolute beginners.

Expression orale 2/5

Easy to pronounce, but requires the distinct Korean 5-syllable rhythm.

Écoute 1/5

Highly recognizable even in fast speech due to its English roots.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

버스 (Bus) 카드 (Card) 돈 (Money) 있다 (To have) 가다 (To go)

Apprends ensuite

충전 (Recharge) 환승 (Transfer) 지하철 (Subway) 단말기 (Terminal) 잔액 (Balance)

Avancé

대중교통 (Public transport) 교통체증 (Traffic jam) 노선도 (Route map) 배차 간격 (Dispatch interval) 수도권 (Metropolitan area)

Grammaire à connaître

The particle '-로' for means and methods.

버스카드로 결제해요. (I pay with a bus card.)

The honorific request '-해 주세요'.

충전해 주세요. (Please recharge.)

The conditional '-(으)면' for cause and effect.

찍으면 할인돼요. (If you tap, you get a discount.)

The object particle '-을/를'.

버스카드를 사요. (I buy a bus card.)

The negative '못' for inability.

잔액이 없어서 못 타요. (I can't ride because there's no balance.)

Exemples par niveau

1

버스카드 있어요?

Do you have a bus card?

있어요? is the polite way to ask if something exists or if someone has something.

2

버스카드 주세요.

Please give me a bus card.

주세요 is the standard polite request form.

3

이것은 제 버스카드입니다.

This is my bus card.

입니다 is the formal ending for 'to be'.

4

버스카드가 예뻐요.

The bus card is pretty.

예뻐요 is the polite form of 'to be pretty'.

5

버스카드 어디에 있어요?

Where is the bus card?

어디에 means 'at where'.

6

버스카드 하나 사요.

I buy one bus card.

사요 is the polite present tense of 'to buy'.

7

지갑에 버스카드가 있어요.

There is a bus card in the wallet.

에 indicates the location.

8

버스카드 안 비싸요.

The bus card is not expensive.

안 is a prefix used for negation.

1

버스카드 충전해 주세요.

Please recharge my bus card.

충전하다 (to recharge) + -해 주세요 (please do).

2

버스카드를 찍으세요.

Please tap the bus card.

찍다 (to tap) + -(으)세요 (polite command).

3

버스카드 잔액이 얼마예요?

How much is the bus card balance?

잔액 means 'balance'.

4

버스카드를 잃어버렸어요.

I lost my bus card.

잃어버리다 (to lose) in past tense.

5

편의점에서 버스카드를 팔아요.

They sell bus cards at the convenience store.

팔다 (to sell) in polite present tense.

6

버스카드로 결제할 수 있어요?

Can I pay with a bus card?

-로 indicates the means or method.

7

내 버스카드는 티머니예요.

My bus card is T-money.

티머니 is the most common brand of bus card.

8

버스카드를 가방에서 꺼냈어요.

I took the bus card out of my bag.

꺼내다 means 'to take out'.

1

버스카드를 찍으면 환승 할인을 받을 수 있어요.

If you tap your bus card, you can get a transfer discount.

-(으)면 means 'if' or 'when'.

2

버스카드 잔액이 부족해서 버스를 못 탔어요.

I couldn't ride the bus because the bus card balance was insufficient.

-아/어서 indicates a reason or cause.

3

모바일 버스카드를 사용하면 훨씬 편리해요.

It is much more convenient if you use a mobile bus card.

훨씬 means 'much more' (comparative).

4

버스카드를 등록해야 학생 할인을 받아요.

You have to register the bus card to get the student discount.

-아/어야 means 'must do something in order to...'.

5

버스카드 충전은 현금으로만 가능해요.

Recharging the bus card is only possible with cash.

-만 means 'only'.

6

지하철역에서 버스카드를 충전할 수 있는 기계가 있어요.

There is a machine at the subway station where you can recharge your bus card.

-ㄹ 수 있는 is a relative clause meaning 'that can'.

7

버스카드를 찍을 때 소리가 나요.

A sound occurs when you tap the bus card.

-을 때 means 'when'.

8

어린이용 버스카드는 요금이 더 저렴합니다.

The fare for a child's bus card is cheaper.

-용 indicates 'for the use of'.

1

버스카드의 보급으로 대중교통 이용이 매우 편리해졌습니다.

With the widespread use of bus cards, using public transport has become very convenient.

-아/어지다 indicates a change in state (become).

2

후불 교통카드는 매달 사용한 금액이 신용카드 대금과 함께 청구됩니다.

For postpaid transportation cards, the monthly usage amount is billed together with the credit card payment.

청구되다 means 'to be billed'.

3

버스카드에 남은 잔액을 환불받으려면 수수료를 내야 합니다.

To get a refund of the remaining balance on a bus card, you must pay a fee.

-(으)려면 means 'if you intend to'.

4

요즘은 버스카드 기능이 포함된 체크카드를 많이 사용합니다.

These days, many people use debit cards that include a bus card function.

포함된 is the passive participle of 'to include'.

5

버스카드를 하차할 때 찍지 않으면 추가 요금이 발생할 수 있습니다.

If you don't tap your bus card when getting off, an additional fare may occur.

발생하다 means 'to occur' or 'to happen'.

6

전국 호환 버스카드는 어느 지역에서나 사용할 수 있어서 좋습니다.

Nationwide compatible bus cards are great because they can be used in any region.

어느 ...나 means 'any' or 'every'.

7

버스카드의 데이터를 분석하여 버스 노선을 효율적으로 조정합니다.

By analyzing bus card data, bus routes are efficiently adjusted.

-아/어/여서 indicates a sequence of actions or a cause.

8

분실한 버스카드의 잔액을 보호하기 위해서는 미리 등록을 해야 합니다.

In order to protect the balance of a lost bus card, you must register it in advance.

-기 위해서 means 'in order to'.

1

버스카드 시스템의 도입은 한국 대중교통 역사에서 혁신적인 변화였습니다.

The introduction of the bus card system was an innovative change in the history of Korean public transportation.

도입 means 'introduction' or 'adoption'.

2

스마트폰의 NFC 기능을 활용한 모바일 버스카드는 실물 카드의 필요성을 줄이고 있습니다.

Mobile bus cards utilizing the NFC function of smartphones are reducing the need for physical cards.

-고 있다 indicates an ongoing action or trend.

3

정부는 저소득층의 교통비 부담을 덜어주기 위해 전용 버스카드 혜택을 확대하고 있습니다.

The government is expanding benefits for dedicated bus cards to ease the burden of transportation costs for low-income groups.

덜어주다 means 'to lighten' or 'to ease' (a burden).

4

버스카드 단말기 오작동으로 인해 요금이 잘못 결제되는 사례가 간혹 보고됩니다.

Cases where fares are incorrectly charged due to bus card terminal malfunctions are occasionally reported.

-로 인해 means 'due to' or 'because of'.

5

교통 약자를 위한 무임 승차용 버스카드는 부정 사용 방지를 위해 엄격히 관리됩니다.

Free-ride bus cards for the transportation-vulnerable are strictly managed to prevent unauthorized use.

부정 사용 means 'unauthorized' or 'illegal' use.

6

버스카드 이용 내역은 개인의 이동 패턴을 파악하는 중요한 데이터 자산이 됩니다.

Bus card usage history becomes an important data asset for identifying individual movement patterns.

파악하다 means 'to grasp' or 'to identify'.

7

외국인 관광객을 위한 단기권 버스카드는 관광 활성화에 기여하고 있습니다.

Short-term bus cards for foreign tourists are contributing to the revitalization of tourism.

기여하다 means 'to contribute'.

8

버스카드 한 장으로 전국의 모든 교통수단을 이용할 수 있는 '원카드 올패스' 체계가 구축되었습니다.

The 'One Card All Pass' system, which allows the use of all transportation nationwide with a single bus card, has been established.

구축되다 means 'to be built' or 'to be established'.

1

버스카드 시스템의 고도화는 단순한 결제 수단을 넘어 통합 모빌리티 서비스(MaaS)의 근간이 되고 있습니다.

The advancement of the bus card system has gone beyond a simple payment method and is becoming the foundation of Integrated Mobility Services (MaaS).

고도화 means 'advancement' or 'enhancement'.

2

비접촉식 결제 방식인 버스카드는 포스트 코로나 시대에 위생적인 대안으로 다시금 주목받았습니다.

Bus cards, a contactless payment method, received attention again as a hygienic alternative in the post-COVID era.

다시금 is an emphatic form of 'again'.

3

버스카드 기술의 표준화 문제는 지자체 간의 이해관계가 얽혀 있어 해결에 오랜 시간이 걸렸습니다.

The issue of standardizing bus card technology took a long time to resolve as the interests of local governments were intertwined.

얽혀 있다 means 'to be intertwined' or 'to be tangled'.

4

암호화 기술이 적용된 최신 버스카드는 복제 및 해킹의 위험으로부터 사용자 정보를 철저히 보호합니다.

The latest bus cards applied with encryption technology thoroughly protect user information from the risks of cloning and hacking.

철저히 means 'thoroughly'.

5

디지털 소외 계층인 노인들에게 스마트폰 기반의 모바일 버스카드는 여전히 높은 진입 장벽으로 작용합니다.

For the elderly, who are digitally marginalized, smartphone-based mobile bus cards still act as a high barrier to entry.

진입 장벽 means 'barrier to entry'.

6

버스카드 빅데이터를 활용한 수요 응답형 교통 체계는 교통 사각지대를 해소하는 데 일조하고 있습니다.

The demand-responsive transport system using bus card big data is helping to eliminate transportation blind spots.

일조하다 means 'to play a part' or 'to contribute'.

7

과거의 종이 승차권에서 마그네틱 카드를 거쳐 현재의 IC 칩 버스카드에 이르기까지 기술의 변천사는 눈부십니다.

The history of technological changes, from past paper tickets through magnetic cards to current IC chip bus cards, is dazzling.

~에 이르기까지 means 'reaching to' or 'up to'.

8

교통 복지 차원에서 시행되는 무제한 버스카드 요금제는 시민들의 가계 부담을 획기적으로 줄여주는 정책입니다.

The unlimited bus card fare system implemented for transportation welfare is a policy that drastically reduces the household burden of citizens.

획기적으로 means 'drastically' or 'groundbreakingly'.

Collocations courantes

버스카드를 충전하다
버스카드를 찍다
버스카드를 분실하다
버스카드 잔액
버스카드 단말기
버스카드를 대다
버스카드 혜택
버스카드를 등록하다
버스카드 케이스
버스카드 기능

Phrases Courantes

버스카드 충전해 주세요.

— Please recharge my bus card. Used at convenience stores.

만 원만 버스카드 충전해 주세요.

버스카드 찍었어?

— Did you tap your bus card? Used between friends when boarding.

너 버스카드 찍었어? 응, 찍었어.

버스카드 잔액이 부족합니다.

— The bus card balance is insufficient. The automated voice message.

단말기에서 '버스카드 잔액이 부족합니다'라는 소리가 났다.

버스카드 돼요?

— Can I use a bus card? Asking if a card is accepted in a taxi or shop.

택시에서 버스카드 돼요?

버스카드 놓고 왔어요.

— I left my bus card behind. Explaining why you can't pay.

아, 집에 버스카드 놓고 왔어요.

버스카드 하나 주세요.

— Please give me one bus card. Buying a new card.

여기요, 버스카드 하나 주세요.

버스카드 어디서 충전해요?

— Where do I recharge the bus card? Asking for directions.

실례합니다, 버스카드 어디서 충전해요?

버스카드 환불받고 싶어요.

— I want to get a refund for my bus card. At a service center.

고장 난 버스카드 환불받고 싶어요.

버스카드 찍을 때 조심하세요.

— Be careful when tapping the bus card. Warning about double taps.

지갑에 카드가 많으면 버스카드 찍을 때 조심하세요.

버스카드 등록하셨나요?

— Did you register your bus card? Asking about youth or tax benefits.

할인 받으려면 버스카드 등록하셨나요?

Souvent confondu avec

버스카드 vs 신용카드

Credit card. While some have bus functions, you don't 'recharge' a standard credit card.

버스카드 vs 전화카드

Phone card. Used for public payphones, which are now rare.

버스카드 vs 기프트카드

Gift card. Used for shopping, not for transportation.

Expressions idiomatiques

"버스카드 한 장으로 전국을 누비다"

— To travel all over the country with just one bus card. Refers to the convenience of the unified system.

이제는 버스카드 한 장으로 전국을 누빌 수 있는 시대입니다.

Neutral
"버스카드가 밥 먹여 주나"

— Will a bus card feed you? (Sarcastic) Meaning that something is not productive or doesn't bring money.

공부 안 하고 놀기만 하면 버스카드가 밥 먹여 주니?

Slang/Informal
"버스카드 찍듯"

— Like tapping a bus card. Doing something very quickly and habitually.

그는 버스카드 찍듯 매일 아침 도서관에 출석한다.

Colloquial
"버스카드 잔액만큼"

— As much as a bus card balance. Meaning a very small or trivial amount.

내 통장 잔고가 버스카드 잔액만큼 남았어.

Humorous/Informal
"버스카드 인생"

— Bus card life. Referring to someone who relies entirely on public transport.

차를 팔고 나서부터 버스카드 인생이 시작되었다.

Informal
"버스카드 삑 소리"

— The 'beep' sound of a bus card. Used to describe the start of a journey or a daily routine.

버스카드 삑 소리와 함께 하루를 시작한다.

Poetic/Neutral
"버스카드 셔틀"

— Bus card shuttle. (Derogatory) A person who is forced by others to recharge their cards for them.

학교 폭력의 일종인 버스카드 셔틀 문제가 심각하다.

Slang/Serious
"버스카드 구멍"

— Bus card hole. A situation where you always forget to recharge, causing delays.

나는 항상 버스카드 구멍이라니까, 오늘도 잔액이 없네.

Informal
"버스카드 한 장의 여유"

— The leisure of a single bus card. The freedom of traveling without a car.

버스카드 한 장의 여유를 즐기며 여행을 떠나요.

Literary
"버스카드 찍고 튀기"

— Tap the card and run. Doing something in a great hurry.

그는 인사만 하고 버스카드 찍고 튀듯 사라졌다.

Informal

Facile à confondre

버스카드 vs 현금

Both are used to pay for the bus.

현금 is physical cash; 버스카드 is the digital card. Using a card is cheaper.

현금 말고 버스카드로 내세요.

버스카드 vs 티켓

English speakers might say 'bus ticket'.

티켓 (ticket) is usually for one-time use or long distance; 버스카드 is reusable.

시내버스는 티켓이 아니라 버스카드를 써요.

버스카드 vs 정기권

Both are transit cards.

정기권 is a fixed-period pass (e.g., 30 days); 버스카드 is usually pay-as-you-go.

지하철 정기권은 버스에서 못 써요.

버스카드 vs 체크카드

Many debit cards have bus functions.

체크카드 is a bank card; 버스카드 is specifically for transit (though they can overlap).

제 체크카드에 버스카드 기능이 있어요.

버스카드 vs 포인트

Some people think of the balance as 'points'.

It is actual money (잔액), not points (포인트).

포인트가 아니라 잔액을 확인하세요.

Structures de phrases

A1

[Noun] 있어요?

버스카드 있어요?

A2

[Noun]해 주세요.

버스카드 충전해 주세요.

B1

[Verb]면 [Result].

카드를 찍으면 할인받아요.

B2

[Noun] 대신에 [Noun].

버스카드 대신에 핸드폰을 써요.

C1

[Noun] 덕분에 [Result].

버스카드 시스템 덕분에 이동이 편해요.

C2

[Noun]을/를 비롯하여 [Noun].

버스카드를 비롯하여 다양한 결제 수단이 있다.

All

[Noun] 어디서 [Verb]?

버스카드 어디서 사요?

All

[Noun]로 [Verb].

버스카드로 타요.

Famille de mots

Noms

버스 (Bus)
카드 (Card)
대중교통 (Public transport)
단말기 (Terminal/Reader)
잔액 (Balance)

Verbes

충전하다 (To recharge)
찍다 (To tap/tag)
환승하다 (To transfer)
결제하다 (To pay)
사용하다 (To use)

Adjectifs

편리하다 (To be convenient)
부족하다 (To be insufficient)
다양하다 (To be diverse)
유용하다 (To be useful)

Apparenté

지하철 (Subway)
택시 (Taxi)
편의점 (Convenience store)
요금 (Fare)
할인 (Discount)

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Extremely high in daily urban life.

Erreurs courantes
  • Using '충전' for a credit card. No correction needed, just awareness.

    You don't recharge (충전) a credit card. You only recharge prepaid (선불) cards.

  • Saying '버스표' for a city bus. 버스카드

    '표' (ticket) is rarely used for city buses anymore; everyone uses a card.

  • Not tapping off on the bus. 하차 태그 (Tagging off)

    If you don't tap off, you lose transfer discounts and may be overcharged on your next trip.

  • Trying to recharge with a credit card at a store. 현금 충전 (Cash recharge)

    Convenience stores almost exclusively require cash for bus card recharges.

  • Confusing '잔액' with '잔돈'. 잔액 (Balance)

    '잔돈' is physical 'small change' (coins), while '잔액' is the digital balance on a card.

Astuces

Transfer Discount

Always tap your card when exiting the bus. This activates the 30-minute window for a free or discounted transfer to your next ride.

Mobile Apps

If you have an Android phone with NFC, use the Mobile T-Money app. You won't need to carry a physical card anymore.

Cute Designs

Look for limited edition cards at convenience stores. They make great souvenirs and are functional too!

Carry Cash

Keep a small amount of cash (like 10,000 won) specifically for recharging your card, as most places won't take credit cards for this.

Register Online

Register your card on the T-money website. This allows you to track your spending and get a tax deduction if you live in Korea.

Card in Wallet

You don't need to take the card out of your wallet. Just tap your whole wallet on the reader, provided there's only one transit card inside.

Airport Purchase

Buy your bus card as soon as you land at Incheon Airport. You can use it to take the airport railroad or the limousine bus to the city.

Machine Errors

If the machine says '다시 대 주세요', hold your card still for a second longer rather than tapping it repeatedly.

Be Ready

Have your card out and ready before you reach the front of the line to keep the boarding process smooth for everyone.

Child Fares

If traveling with children, buy an '어린이' card. You will need to register their birthdate at the convenience store to keep the discount active.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Imagine a BUS driver handing you a magic CARD that makes a 'Beep' sound. BEO-SEU-KA-DEU.

Association visuelle

Picture a bright yellow T-money card with a cute bear on it, being tapped against a glowing blue circle on a bus.

Word Web

T-Money Cashbee Recharge Transfer Fare Subway NFC Convenience Store

Défi

Try to go to a convenience store in Korea and recharge your card without using any English. Say: '버스카드 오천 원 충전해 주세요' (Please recharge 5,000 won on my bus card).

Origine du mot

The word is a compound of '버스' (Bus) and '카드' (Card). Both components are loanwords from English that entered the Korean language during the 20th century as Western transport and financial technologies were adopted. The specific concept of a 'bus card' as a smart payment device began in the late 1990s in Seoul.

Sens originel : Bus (Latin: omnibus - for all) + Card (Greek: khartes - leaf of paper).

Indo-European (English) borrowed into Korean (Altaic/Koreanic) as a loanword.

Contexte culturel

Be aware that using a 'Senior' or 'Disabled' card when you are not eligible is a serious offense and is considered culturally disrespectful.

Unlike the 'Oyster card' in London or the 'MetroCard' in NYC, the Korean bus card is much more integrated into retail, allowing you to buy snacks at convenience stores with the same card.

T-Money (The most famous brand) Cashbee (Popular brand) Kakao Friends Limited Edition Cards

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

At a Convenience Store

  • 버스카드 충전해 주세요.
  • 얼마 충전할까요?
  • 현금으로 할게요.
  • 영수증 주세요.

On a Bus

  • 버스카드를 찍으세요.
  • 카드를 다시 대 주세요.
  • 내릴 때 찍어야 해요.
  • 두 명 결제해 주세요.

In a Taxi

  • 버스카드 돼요?
  • 카드로 계산할게요.
  • 여기 찍으면 되나요?
  • 잔액이 부족해요.

At a Subway Station

  • 충전기가 어디에 있어요?
  • 카드 잔액을 확인하고 싶어요.
  • 카드가 안 찍혀요.
  • 보증금 환급받으러 왔어요.

With Friends

  • 버스카드 빌려줄 수 있어?
  • 내 카드 잔액이 없어.
  • 카드 디자인 예쁘다.
  • 같이 충전하러 가자.

Amorces de conversation

"혹시 버스카드 어디서 파는지 아세요? (Do you happen to know where they sell bus cards?)"

"버스카드 충전은 현금으로만 되나요? (Is bus card recharge only possible with cash?)"

"요즘은 다들 모바일 버스카드 쓰시죠? (Everyone uses mobile bus cards these days, right?)"

"버스카드 잔액이 얼마나 남았을까요? (I wonder how much balance is left on my bus card?)"

"이 버스카드 디자인 정말 귀엽지 않나요? (Isn't this bus card design really cute?)"

Sujets d'écriture

오늘 버스카드를 충전하면서 겪은 재미있는 일이 있었나요? (Was there anything interesting that happened while recharging your bus card today?)

한국의 버스카드 시스템이 당신의 나라와 어떻게 다른가요? (How is Korea's bus card system different from your country's?)

버스카드를 잃어버렸을 때의 기분을 써보세요. (Write about how you felt when you lost your bus card.)

모바일 버스카드와 실물 카드 중 무엇을 더 선호하나요? (Which do you prefer, a mobile bus card or a physical card?)

버스카드 한 장으로 여행하고 싶은 한국의 장소는 어디인가요? (Where in Korea would you like to travel with just a bus card?)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

You can buy a bus card at almost any convenience store (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) or at ticket vending machines inside subway stations. They usually cost around 2,500 to 5,000 KRW for the card itself.

Yes, on buses. You must tell the driver '두 명이요' (Two people) before you tap. However, you cannot do this on the subway; each person needs their own card.

Generally, no. The balance stays on the card indefinitely. However, if you don't use it for many years, the card might become inactive, but you can usually reactivate it.

You can check it at any convenience store, subway recharge machine, or by using a mobile app that reads NFC cards on your smartphone.

Yes, most cards like T-Money and Cashbee are now 'Nationwide Compatible' (전국호환) and work in almost all Korean cities and for KTX trains.

If it's a prepaid card and not registered online, the balance is lost. If you registered it, you might be able to recover the balance depending on the card type and brand.

Usually, convenience stores only accept cash for recharging prepaid cards. Subway machines also primarily take cash, though some newer ones are starting to accept other forms.

Yes, using a bus card is typically 100 KRW cheaper per ride than paying with cash, and it allows for free transfers which cash does not.

Yes, especially if you plan to transfer to another bus or subway within 30 minutes. Also, some routes have distance-based fares, so not tapping off might result in a maximum fare charge.

They are just different brands. T-money is more common in Seoul, and Cashbee is common in Gyeonggi/Busan, but they are now mostly interchangeable across the country.

Teste-toi 200 questions

writing

Write 'Please recharge my bus card' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'I lost my bus card' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'How much is the balance?' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'I have a bus card' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'Can I use a bus card in a taxi?' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'I buy a bus card at the convenience store' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'Tap the card when you get off' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'The balance is insufficient' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'Please give me one bus card' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'I recharge 10,000 won' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'Is there a transfer discount?' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'My card is T-money' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'The design is pretty' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'Where do I recharge?' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'I use a mobile bus card' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'Wait a moment, please' (while looking for card).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'Two people, please' (to the driver).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'I need a bus card' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'Thank you' (after tapping).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'Does this card work?' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'Bus card' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'Recharge, please.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'Is there a balance?'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'Thank you' to the driver.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'Two people' for the bus fare.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'Where do I buy it?'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'I lost my card.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'Does the bus card work?'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say '10,000 won, please.' (for recharge)

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'Wait a moment.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'It's a student card.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'Tap the card.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'I need to recharge.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'Is it a T-money card?'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'The sound was beep.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'I forgot my card.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'Can I get a refund?'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'Check the balance.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'The card is here.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'I'm getting off.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What does the machine say if the balance is low?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What sound does the card reader make?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What does the driver say if you need to tap again?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What does the clerk ask when you want to recharge?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What does the automated voice say for an adult fare?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What does the automated voice say for a youth fare?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What does the automated voice say for a child fare?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What does the machine say if the transfer is successful?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What word identifies the card as 'T-money'?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What word identifies the card as 'Cashbee'?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What is the sound of a failed tap?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What does the driver say if you haven't paid?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What is the word for 'recharge' you hear in stores?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What is the word for 'balance' you hear in announcements?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What is the word for 'bus' in 'bus card'?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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