Local Transportation
Getting around in Korea is very easy. Almost everything you will need is within easy walking distance. If you need to take a bus, they will come every 5 to 10 minutes and will take you anywhere in your city. Cabs are cheap and easy to just wave down on a main street by your house. Subways are an option in certain cities, and Seoul is thought to have one of the most impressive subway systems in the world. Once you feel comfortable, you may want to invest in a motorbike so you can get around easily in town, while also exploring the beautiful mountainsides in your free time.
Motorbike
Driving my motorbike in the rolling mountains, to work, or to do any errands is my favorite thing about Korea. Since Gwangju is surrounded by mountains, you can easily be cruising the beautiful rural side roads in 5 minutes from any point in the city. The bike will be as much as 30% faster than a taxi, and 50% faster than the bus. I had never driven a motorbike before I came to Korea. While it was a bit scary at first, it was well worth it. Driving a motorbike is the #1 choice for most “foreign” guys I know here. Cost for a motorbike is around $250 and up. Most bikes have 125cc, but they can hit 110km/hr easily. $15 for a fill-up = 2 weeks. $5 for an oil change every 500 km’s.
Bus
The bus system in Gwangju is excellent. They come every 5 - 10 minutes and usually it takes only one bus to get you where you need to go. Cost = $0.90 / ride. There are also usually multiple bus options to get you to your destination, which makes the system even more effective.
Subway
There is only one subway line in Gwangju, but it does run through the most populated areas, and right thru the middle of the city, so it is very useful for some people. The cost is $1/each way.
Taxi
Hailing a cab is a very common way to get around in Gwangju. Flat rate starts at $1.80, and this will get you 3 km’s or over 5 minutes. You can get downtown from most places for $2 to $5. From one end of Gwangju to the other it’s $7.50. The taxi drivers are friendly and will likely try and speak any English they know with you. Their level of English may be very low, but you will know how to say where you live, and the few main places you will be going to.
Walking
The weather is moderate most of the year in Gwangju so walking is a great option for many people. You may find it too hot for long walks some days in the summer, but only the odd day in the winter will be too cold. Most things you need will be very close to your apartment. (Groceries, School, dry cleaning, restaurants, bars, etc)
