This bullet train journey is something Australians can only dream of
Route Seoul to Busan
Distance 417 kilometres
Operator KTX (Korean Train Express)
Class Standard class
Frequency 55 times a day (for the KTX)
The journey
From Seoul Central Station to Busan Central on board the KTX bullet train, with a scheduled time of 2 hours, 15 minutes and a top speed of 330km/h. Linking South Korea's two largest cities, it's one of the busiest train routes in the country. The trip takes you through unappealing industrial towns between the two cities, though there are some more scenic views along the way of the hilly countryside and local farms. The ride is exceedingly smooth. Indeed it often feels like we're barely moving at all, never mind zipping along at more than 300 km/h. Seats can be reserved but if you buy a non-reserved ticket at short notice you can still board – if there's no seat available you'll just have to hang out between the carriages, which quite a few passengers are doing on this trip.
The seat
There are two classes to choose from: standard and first. The standard cabin offers a two-two configuration, while the first class seats are larger with more legroom and a one-two layout. I'm in standard for this journey and there's plenty of legroom and space for my 182-centimetre frame. Standard class is available from about $59 one way or about $82 for first class. It's relatively easy to book tickets via the korail.com site (once you switch the language to English) but in my case the tickets have been arranged by my tour guide from Inside Asia (who also helpfully insists on taking responsibility for getting our luggage on board).
Boarding
Departing from Seoul means the train sits at the platform for a while before it's time to leave, so boarding is a leisurely affair (but don't dawdle – the train leaves exactly on time). Luggage safely stowed on board, I have time to walk up to the engine and snap a pic of the train's sleek nose before walking back to my carriage and finding my seat.
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Discover South America's essence on this adventure through Argentina, Brazil, and Peru. Highlights include Iguazu Falls and a two-night Amazon stay in an eco-friendly lodge. Visit Lake Titicaca's indigenous communities and experience the vibrant cultures of Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, and the Sacred Valley's ruins. The tour also features an iconic train ride from Ollantaytambo to the foothills of Machu Picchu. All sightseeing, including entry fees, is covered as per the itinerary, and you'll be fully escorted by English-speaking guides (excluding internal flights). Your culinary needs are also taken care of with daily breakfast, four lunches, and two dinners, including a traditional Brazilian lunch at a local churrascaria, an all-you-can-eat barbeque. Valued at up to $34,452, one subscriber and their companion will win a 21-day tour with Inspiring Vacations on either February 4, 2026 or June 17, 2026, including 18 nights of accommodation in 3 and 4 star hotels and return economy international flights. The prize includes: Return international airfares Small, intimate group experience – no more than 20 people Two days exploring Peru's Amazon Jungle 18 nights in 3 & 4-star hotels, including 2 nights at an eco-friendly Peruvian Amazon lodge Breakfast daily, 4 lunches and 2 dinners All internal flights, coach, rail and boat transportation Fully escorted by English-speaking guides in each region (excluding on internal flights) Incredible sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary To enter this competition complete the form below and in 25 words or less, answer the question: 'Why would you love to tour South America with Inspiring Vacations?' Enter by Saturday, August 30 at 11:59pm AEDT to be in the running. Make sure you're in the running to win the South American adventure of a lifetime. Entrants must be able to travel on the tours commencing February 4, 2026 or June 17, 2026.
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- The Age
Win a 21-day Inspiring South America tour*
Discover South America's essence on this adventure through Argentina, Brazil, and Peru. Highlights include Iguazu Falls and a two-night Amazon stay in an eco-friendly lodge. Visit Lake Titicaca's indigenous communities and experience the vibrant cultures of Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, and the Sacred Valley's ruins. The tour also features an iconic train ride from Ollantaytambo to the foothills of Machu Picchu. All sightseeing, including entry fees, is covered as per the itinerary, and you'll be fully escorted by English-speaking guides (excluding internal flights). Your culinary needs are also taken care of with daily breakfast, four lunches, and two dinners, including a traditional Brazilian lunch at a local churrascaria, an all-you-can-eat barbeque. Valued at up to $34,452, one subscriber and their companion will win a 21-day tour with Inspiring Vacations on either February 4, 2026 or June 17, 2026, including 18 nights of accommodation in 3 and 4 star hotels and return economy international flights. The prize includes: Return international airfares Small, intimate group experience – no more than 20 people Two days exploring Peru's Amazon Jungle 18 nights in 3 & 4-star hotels, including 2 nights at an eco-friendly Peruvian Amazon lodge Breakfast daily, 4 lunches and 2 dinners All internal flights, coach, rail and boat transportation Fully escorted by English-speaking guides in each region (excluding on internal flights) Incredible sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary To enter this competition complete the form below and in 25 words or less, answer the question: 'Why would you love to tour South America with Inspiring Vacations?' Enter by Saturday, August 30 at 11:59pm AEDT to be in the running. Make sure you're in the running to win the South American adventure of a lifetime. Entrants must be able to travel on the tours commencing February 4, 2026 or June 17, 2026.
