Motgol Station Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide — Busan Historical Sites
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction
Motgol Station (못골역), situated in Busan’s dynamic Nam-gu district, is a vital transit hub on Busan Metro Line 2. More than just a gateway for commuters, it connects visitors to the city’s vibrant cultural, historical, and educational landmarks. Since its opening in 2001, Motgol Station has supported the growth of surrounding neighborhoods such as Daeyeon-dong and Yongho-dong, and continues to serve as a bridge between Busan’s storied past and its modern urban life.
This guide delivers comprehensive information for travelers and locals alike: visiting hours, ticketing options, accessibility features, nearby attractions, practical navigation tips, and insights into Motgol Station’s place in Busan’s evolution. Whether you’re exploring markets, university campuses, or historical sites like the United Nations Memorial Cemetery, Motgol Station offers convenient access and a glimpse into authentic Busan beyond the usual tourist trails.
For up-to-date schedules, fare options—including T-money and Cashbee rechargeable cards—and detailed travel insights, official sources such as the Busan Metro website and Busan Tourism Organization are highly recommended.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Historical Background of Motgol Station
- Visiting Hours and Ticketing Information
- Accessibility Features
- Getting to Motgol Station
- Nearby Attractions and Amenities
- Station Facilities and Services
- Transportation Connections
- Practical Visitor Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
- References
Historical Background of Motgol Station
Motgol Station opened in 2001 as part of Busan’s expanding metro system, meeting the transit needs of a rapidly urbanizing Nam-gu district. The name “Motgol” translates to “village by the pond,” a nod to its rural origins before Busan’s transformation into South Korea’s second-largest city. The station’s construction has been instrumental in reducing road congestion and fostering the growth of educational and residential districts, reflecting Busan’s broader journey from port town to cosmopolitan metropolis.
Visiting Hours and Ticketing Information
Operating Hours:
Motgol Station operates daily from approximately 5:30 AM to midnight, in line with the Busan Metro schedule. Trains run every 5–10 minutes during peak times and every 10–15 minutes off-peak. It is advisable to check the latest train times on the Busan Metro website before your journey.
Tickets and Fare Options:
- Single-Journey Tickets: Start at about 1,300 KRW, with prices increasing by distance.
- Transportation Cards: T-money and Cashbee cards are available and offer discounted, cashless fare payment across the Busan subway, buses, and light rail lines. These can be purchased and recharged at station machines.
- Visit Busan Pass: For tourists, this pass provides unlimited subway rides and discounts at over 30 city attractions (Zen Moments in Korea).
- Refunds: Unused balances on cards can be refunded at designated stations, minus a nominal fee.
Ticketing Facilities:
Automated machines accept Korean won and most credit/debit cards (including many foreign cards) (Kimchee Guesthouse). Instructions are provided in Korean and English.
Accessibility Features
Motgol Station is designed for universal access:
- Elevators and Ramps: Connect all station levels and support wheelchair users.
- Tactile Paving: Guides visually impaired passengers through platforms and concourses.
- Accessible Restrooms: Located near main exits.
- Priority Seating: Clearly marked on trains for seniors, pregnant women, and those with disabilities.
- Bilingual Signage: Korean and English throughout the station.
- Staff Assistance: On-site staff and intercoms for assistance.
Getting to Motgol Station
By Metro:
Motgol Station is on Line 2 (green line) and connects easily to central hubs like Seomyeon and Busan Station. From Busan Station, take Line 1 to Seomyeon, then transfer to Line 2 (about 22 minutes) (Rome2Rio).
By Bus:
Numerous city buses stop near Motgol Station, with real-time digital arrival displays in both Korean and English. The color-coded system—blue for long-distance, green for local, and red for express—makes navigation straightforward (Zen Moments in Korea).
By Taxi or Rideshare:
Taxis are readily available outside the station. Fares start at around ₩3,800 for the first 2 km, increasing by distance. Apps like Kakao Taxi are widely used.
Nearby Attractions and Amenities
Local Markets and Eateries
- Daeyeon Market: Experience Busan’s culinary culture with local foods and street snacks.
- Family-run Restaurants & Cafés: Enjoy traditional Korean dishes and modern coffee shops in the vicinity.
Parks and Green Spaces
Several small parks are within walking distance, offering peaceful spots for relaxation and community gatherings.
Educational Institutions
- Pukyong National University is nearby, bringing a youthful and vibrant atmosphere to the neighborhood.
- Other Campuses: The area is popular with students, supporting a lively café and bookstore scene.
Historical and Cultural Sites
- United Nations Memorial Cemetery: A significant and moving historical site, just a short walk from Motgol Station (Mapcarta).
- Busan Museum: Explore the city’s history and cultural heritage through engaging exhibits.
- Gamcheon Culture Village: Renowned for colorful houses and art installations, accessible via local buses.
Station Facilities and Services
- Restrooms (including accessible facilities)
- Automated Ticket Machines and Card Recharge Stations
- Customer Service Desk
- Convenience Stores and Kiosks
- Seating Areas on Platforms and Concourse
- Digital Arrival Displays
- Safety Features: Platform screen doors, CCTV, and regular staff patrols
Note: While lockers are not available at Motgol Station, major transfer stations on Line 2 do offer luggage storage.
Transportation Connections
Bus Services
Motgol Station is well-served by local bus routes, allowing easy transfers to neighborhoods and nearby cities. Use the same transportation cards (T-money or Cashbee) for seamless transit.
Taxi and Rideshare
Taxis can be hailed at stands or via Kakao Taxi. Having your destination written in Korean is helpful.
Cycling and Bike Rentals
Bike paths and public bike-sharing programs are accessible near the station. Rentals are available to foreigners with valid ID, making cycling an efficient way to explore local parks and university districts (Kimchee Guesthouse).
Practical Visitor Tips
- Purchase a rechargeable card for convenience and savings.
- Avoid peak rush hours (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM) if possible, especially with luggage or children.
- Use bilingual station signage and digital apps for navigation.
- Plan visits to nearby cultural sites during their opening hours (typically 9:00 AM–10:00 PM).
- Be mindful of etiquette: Keep noise low, queue properly, and offer priority seating to those in need.
- Prepare for weather: Busan summers are hot and humid—Motgol’s underground design provides shelter.
Environmental Initiatives
Busan Metro promotes sustainability through electric buses, energy-efficient trains, and recycling programs at stations (KoreaTripGuide).
Digital Tools and Navigation
- Navigation: Use Kakao Maps or Naver Maps for real-time route planning and English language support (The Broke Backpacker).
- Translation: Apps like Papago assist with language barriers.
- Free Wi-Fi: Available at many stations and public areas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are Motgol Station’s operating hours?
A: 5:30 AM to midnight daily.
Q: How much is a subway ticket?
A: Single-ride fares start at 1,300–1,400 KRW, with discounts for T-money and Cashbee cards.
Q: Is the station accessible for travelers with disabilities?
A: Yes, Motgol Station is fully accessible, with elevators, tactile paving, and accessible restrooms.
Q: How do I get from Busan Station to Motgol Station?
A: Take Line 1 to Seomyeon, transfer to Line 2, and arrive at Motgol Station in about 22 minutes.
Q: Are there lockers at Motgol Station?
A: No, but luggage lockers are available at major transfer stations on Line 2.
Q: What historical sites are nearby?
A: The United Nations Memorial Cemetery, Busan Museum, and Gamcheon Culture Village are all easily accessible.
Conclusion
Motgol Station is more than a transit point; it’s a gateway to Busan’s local culture, history, and modern urban life. Its comprehensive facilities, accessibility, and proximity to key attractions make it an ideal starting point for any Busan adventure. With seamless ticketing, digital navigation tools, and a safe, clean environment, Motgol Station ensures a smooth and enriching experience for all visitors.
For the latest updates, schedules, and travel tips, consult the Busan Metro website, Busan Tourism Organization, and utilize navigation apps during your journey.
References and Further Reading
- Motgol Station Busan: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Insights, 2025, (Busan Metro website)
- Motgol Station Guide: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Attractions in Busan, 2025, (Busan Tourism Organization)
- Motgol Station Busan: Visiting Hours, Tickets, Facilities, and Nearby Historical Sites, 2025, (Mapcarta)
- Motgol Station Busan: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Transportation Guide, 2025, (Kimchee Guesthouse)
- Rome2Rio
- Zen Moments in Korea
- KoreaTripGuide
- The Broke Backpacker
