Introduction
Many foreigners planning a trip to Seoul are curious about how to recharge the Climate Card. While travelers want to save on transportation costs using this unlimited pass, they are often confused by outdated information claiming it is rechargeable with cash only or that it can only be done at specific ticket vending machines.
If you are looking for the most recent and accurate general information regarding this card, I recommend checking the post below first:
[Climate Card: Comprehensive Guide for Foreign Travelers]
When using short-term passes (1-day, 3-day, or 7-day) designed for tourists, it is crucial to know how to navigate the English interface correctly. Mastering the Climate Card recharge steps in advance will allow you to handle the process calmly, even during busy commuting hours.
In this 2026 latest guide, I have prepared a step-by-step visual manual specifically for international visitors. Using actual photos, I will show you exactly which buttons to press and where to place your card. Follow this guide to ensure a perfect recharge without getting lost in the busy subway stations.
Look for a "Ticket Kiosk" inside any Seoul Subway station (Lines 1–8).
Choose "English" at the bottom of the screen.
Tap "Reloading the transit card" on the screen.
Place your card on the "Ticket Reload" pad as instructed.
Choose the short-term pass that fits your schedule.
Choose between Cash, Credit Card, or Mobile Pay.
Insert your cash or credit card.
Confirm the completion message and collect your change or credit card.
1. [Step 1] Finding a Kiosk: Detailed Info [Back to TOC]
Seoul Metro has replaced older, cash-only machines with new models. As of March 17, 2026, these new kiosks allow you to both purchase physical cards and recharge Climate Cards using credit cards. International cards issued abroad, such as Visa, Mastercard, and JCB, are fully supported.
"Ticket Kiosks" are easily found within subway stations, typically located near the turnstiles (ticket gates).
2. [Step 2] Selecting Your Language: Detailed Info [Back to TOC]
The initial screen of the kiosk is set to Korean. Master the language toggle first to navigate the menus easily.
The machine supports Korean, English, Japanese, and Chinese. Once you select English, the interface will update as shown below.
3. [Step 3] Selecting the Recharge Option: Detailed Info [Back to TOC]
When you select "Reloading the transit card," a message will appear asking you to place your physical card. The machine will use a green light to helpfully indicate exactly where to place it.
4. [Step 4] Placing Your Card: Detailed Info [Back to TOC]
Simply place your card on the "Ticket Reload" pad following the on-screen instructions. Do not remove it until the process is fully complete.
Once the card is placed, the machine will recognize it and display your previous recharge history. Note that if you have remaining days left on your current pass, you cannot recharge it yet. Additionally, please be aware that refunds are not possible when recharging with an internationally issued credit card.
5. [Step 5] Choosing the Duration: Detailed Info [Back to TOC]
Select the number of days you wish to use. The short-term passes are great for weekend trips.
Important: Please note that a "1-day pass" does not mean a full 24 hours from the time of recharge. The usage period expires at midnight (24:00) on the day of recharge.
6. [Step 6] Selecting the Payment Method: Detailed Info [Back to TOC]
Choose your preferred payment method. For international travelers, Visa, Mastercard, and JCB cards issued abroad are accepted.
7. [Step 7] Inserting Payment: Detailed Info [Back to TOC]
- (1) If paying with Cash: Insert bills one by one into the "Bill" slot located in the lower center.
(Inserting cash bills into the designated 'Bills' slot.) - (2) If paying with a Credit Card: Insert the card into the "Credit Card" slot on the lower left. Ensure the IC chip is facing up and pushed fully into the slot.
After inserting your payment, wait a moment while the recharge is processed.
8. [Step 8] Completing the Recharge: Detailed Info [Back to TOC]
Once finished, a message will confirm the completion and your change will be dispensed.
Crucial: Do not forget to take your Climate Card from the reload pad! If you need a record of your transaction, tap "Issue a receipt" at the bottom.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I recharge my Climate Card with an international credit card?
A: Yes. Since March 2026, the new ticket kiosks in Seoul Subway (Lines 1-8) fully support international credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and JCB for Climate Card recharges. When inserting your card, ensure the IC chip is facing up, pushed fully into the "Credit Card" slot on the lower left. If it fails, verify that your card has international usage enabled.
Q: What should I do if the kiosk does not recognize my Climate Card?
A: First, ensure your Climate Card is flat on the reload pad. For credit cards, ensure the IC chip is facing up and pointing toward the kiosk, and that it is inserted into the 'Credit Card' slot on the lower left (closest to the kiosk body). If it still fails, verify that you have enabled international usage for your card..
Q: Is it possible to get a refund for a recharge made with a credit card?
A: No. According to the current policy, recharges made with international credit cards are non-refundable. Please double-check your stay duration before selecting a pass.
Photo Credit: Way to Seoul Team, Seoul Metro
Author: TH Jeong