What Yeoksam Station Is
Yeoksam Station (역삼역) is an underground subway station in Yeoksam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (Wikipedia). Located along Teheran-ro, it provides access to corporate offices, hotels, and attractions in Gangnam. The station is on Seoul Subway Line 2, the Circle Line, and has two side platforms.
There are at least 8 exits, each serving a different part of the district:
- Exit 1 Teheran-ro and Gangnam Finance Center
- Exit 3 Hotels and restaurants
- Exit 4 National Library for Children and Young Adults (Trek Zone)
- Exit 7 Yeoksam Artnouveau Hotel (Artnouveau City Yeoksam)
History and Significance
Yeoksam Station opened on December 23, 1982 (Namu Wiki). Its development was part of Seoul’s post-war transformation. During the 1960s and 1970s, development expanded south of the Han River, and Gangnam changed from farmland into a center associated with affluence and innovation. Infrastructure projects, including bridges and highways, culminated in the inauguration of Line 2 and Yeoksam Station in 1982 (Seoul Urban Solutions Agency, Open Korea).
As part of the Circle Line, the station connects central Seoul with Gangnam’s commercial, financial, and entertainment districts. Daily ridership exceeds 60,000 (Namu Wiki, Metro Line Map).
Adjacent to the station, Teheran-ro is known as “Teheran Valley” for its concentration of technology companies and startups. The station also provides access to K-pop landmarks, shopping streets, and nightlife venues (Open Korea).
Sustainability initiatives at Yeoksam include energy-efficient lighting, real-time passenger displays, and safety upgrades. Long-term plans under Seoul’s Vision 2030 include advanced AI traffic management and IoT-enabled infrastructure (Seoul Urban Solutions Agency).
What to See
Seonjeongneung Royal Tombs
Seonjeongneung Royal Tombs are a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the tombs of King Seongjong, Queen Jeonghyeon, and King Jungjong of the Joseon Dynasty. The park is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with free admission. Guided and audio tours are available on-site. The easiest access is via Seonjeongneung Station (Exit 3) or a short walk from Yeoksam (Open Korea).
Highlights include scenic burial mounds, stone statues, ancient trees, and walking paths. The site offers insights into Joseon-era royal customs, and its paths are especially peaceful in spring and autumn.
Image Gallery
- Map of Yeoksam Station Exits
- Seonjeongneung Royal Tombs Entrance
- King Seongjong’s Tomb
- Walking Path at Seonjeongneung
Practical Visiting Information
Hours and Train Frequency
Yeoksam Station operates daily from approximately 5:30 AM to midnight, in accordance with Line 2’s schedule. Trains run every 2–5 minutes during peak hours.
Tickets and Fares
- Single-journey tickets Start at 1,250 KRW, with fares increasing for longer distances.
- T-money card A rechargeable contactless card that offers fare discounts and convenience. It can be purchased and recharged at station vending machines or nearby convenience stores, including GS25 and 7-Eleven.
- Payment Automated machines and counters accept cash and credit cards. Ticket-machine instructions are available in English, Chinese, and Japanese.
To buy a ticket, select your destination and preferred language at an automated machine, insert cash or a card, and collect your ticket or recharge your T-money card. Single-use ticket deposit refund machines are near the fare gates.
Accessibility
Yeoksam Station has elevators and escalators at select exits for wheelchair users and passengers with heavy luggage, tactile paving for visually impaired passengers, and platform screen doors. Staff assistance is available during operating hours.
Facilities and Amenities
| Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| Platforms | 2 side platforms for Line 2 |
| Exits | At least 8, with bilingual signage |
| Ticketing | Automated machines, T-money, and single-use tickets |
| Accessibility | Elevators, escalators at select exits, tactile paving, and platform screen doors |
| Restrooms | Clean, gender-separated restrooms with baby-changing stations |
| Convenience stores | On-site GS25 and 7-Eleven |
| Free Wi-Fi | Available throughout the station |
| ATMs | Support domestic and international cards |
| Lost & Found | Located near the station office |
| Security | CCTV, emergency call buttons, and staffed security |
| Nearby accommodation | Hotels and serviced apartments within walking distance |
Tours and Events
Yeoksam Station itself does not host events, but it is a common starting point for guided tours of Gangnam’s technology, business, and cultural landmarks. Local operators offer tours from the station, and major expos and festivals in Gangnam are easily accessible from it.
Tips
- Avoid weekday rush hours, typically 7–9 AM and 6–8 PM, when the station can be crowded.
- Check station signs or navigation apps before choosing an exit. The station has at least 8 exits.
- Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the station.
- Most signage is bilingual in Korean and English, though staff members’ English ability may vary. Translation apps such as Papago can be helpful.
- A T-money card offers convenience and fare savings.
- The station’s location, facilities, and connections serve commuters and visitors, and its history reflects Seoul’s modernization and Gangnam’s combination of traditional and contemporary attractions.
- For real-time transit updates, ticketing options, and travel tips, the original guide recommends downloading the Audiala app for information about Seoul’s urban developments and cultural events.
Nearby Places
- Teheran-ro Business District A hub for technology startups and major corporate offices.
- COEX Mall Described as Asia’s largest underground shopping complex, with an aquarium, convention center, and eateries. Exits 5 and 6 offer direct access to COEX and adjacent facilities.
- Bongeunsa Temple A historic Buddhist temple and a tranquil retreat amid the city.
- Gangnam Style Statue A photo spot celebrating Korean pop culture.
- Seonjeongneung Royal Tombs A UNESCO World Heritage Site; see the section above for visiting details.
- War Memorial of Korea Accessible by subway, with extensive exhibits on Korea’s military history. Open 9:30 AM–6:00 PM, closed Mondays, with free admission (official War Memorial of Korea website).
- National Museum of Korea A large collection of Korean art and artifacts, a short subway ride away.
- Itaewon District Offers international cuisine and shopping and is accessible by subway.
Nearby stations include Gangnam Station on Line 2; Seolleung Station on Line 2 and the Bundang Line, with access to Seonjeongneung Royal Tombs; and Samseong Station on Line 2, for COEX Mall and Bongeunsa Temple.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are Yeoksam Station’s operating hours?
A: 5:30 AM to midnight daily.
Q: How do I buy subway tickets?
A: Use automated machines, which offer Korean and English, or purchase a T-money card at the station or at convenience stores.
Q: Is Yeoksam Station accessible for disabled travelers?
A: Yes. The station has elevators, tactile paving, and staff assistance at select exits.
Q: What is the best exit for COEX Mall?
A: Exits 5 and 6 offer direct access to COEX and adjacent facilities.
Q: Are there guided tours from Yeoksam?
A: Yes. Local operators offer tours of Gangnam starting from Yeoksam Station.
