A new "smartcard," exclusively for foreign tourists, was released Monday, allowing them to use public transport more conveniently and offering various discounts. / Courtesy of Korea Tour Card



By Hong Dam-young

A new "smartcard," exclusively for foreign tourists, was released Monday, allowing them to use public transport more conveniently and offering various discounts.

In cooperation with the Visit Korea Committee, Korea Smart Card (KSC) ― Korea's public transits fare card issuer ― said Monday that the "Korea Tour Card, also offered discounts at shopping centers, restaurants and tourist attractions.

Korea Tour Card's release is to celebrate the Korea Grand Sale 2017 ― a shopping and tourism festival for foreigners lasting from Jan. 20 to Feb. 28.

Card holders can use subways, buses, express buses, trains and taxies. They can also receive discounts and gifts from 25 affiliated tourist spots, including Lotte World Mall, Hyundai I'PARK Mall, Doota Duty Free, Galleria Duty Free, Lotte Duty Free, Lotte World, Everland and the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.

K-pop fans can also enjoy cheaper prices at cafes and theaters operated by SM Town, one of the biggest K-pop agencies.

The benefits are available until the end of "2016-2018 Visit Korea Year" ― a three-year campaign to attract foreigners.

Korea Tour Card costs 4,000 won ($3.40) at 7-Eleven convenience stores nationwide, on 40 Jeju Air international flights, or at travel stores at Incheon International Airport Station and Seoul Station.

The card can be recharged at convenience stores, card dispensers at Seoul Metro Line 1-4, smartcard recharging machines and station service desks at Seoul Metro Line 1-8.

For more information, visit the Korea Tour Card website at vkc.or.kr.