Covering approximately 4.2 square kilometers, the Gwanak campus of Seoul National University is large and one question that arises is, how can people easily get around? In such an extensive campus with long hilly paths, it seems tiresome to travel by foot to get between the different buildings. Certainly, several local buses such as the 5511 or the Gwanak02 have stops on campus. Paying fares for these buses every time, however, can become expensive as the school year progresses. In the face of such challenges, SNU provides a solution: the SNU shuttle bus.

SNU runs a shuttle bus system that is completely free of charge. Starting at the main gate, the on-campus circulation shuttle buses with the SNU logo on their sides loop around the campus in both directions and pass through every station on campus until they arrive back at the main gate. With only an estimated five minutes between each bus, the system is a practical alternative provided to everyone who needs to move throughout the school premises. Some buses operate all year round, including the holidays. The main bus that departs at the front gate and circulates in the direction of the Law School operates from 8am to 9pm during normal school semesters and from 8am to 6pm during the holidays.

the off-campus Shuttle Bus which goes to Seoul National University Entrance station

The SNU bus system extends its services beyond the campus; the buses go to Seoul National University Entrance station (SNU Entrance station), Sadang station, and Nakseongdae station. The buses stop at the blue signs with the SNU logo and the caption “SNU Shuttle Bus”, and the operating hours vary depending on the station. For example, while the bus that goes to the SNU Entrance station operates from 7am to 7pm, the ones that go to Sadang station only operate from 8am to 11am. Moreover, unlike the on-campus shuttle buses, some of the off-campus buses do not operate during the holidays.

Due to the worsening of the COVID-19 pandemic in Seoul, amendments have been made to the shuttle bus system. Although there is no need to reserve a seat before riding these buses, passengers are required to scan a QR code upon riding one.

As a new student who for the first few weeks utilized the local green buses to get around, I highly recommend those who need to get to campus or travel between its buildings to switch to this transportation system that is still unknown to many members of the campus. Going straight to the station without having to transfer is extremely convenient and cost-efficient.

Detailed information regarding the shuttle bus system can be found on the SNU website (https://en.snu.ac.kr/about/campus/gwanak/shuttles). There are timetables, operating hours, and detailed routes for each bus.

Written by Yeryoung Lee, SNU English Editor, yeryounglee@snu.ac.kr
Reviewed by Professor Travis Smith, Department of Asian Languages and Civilizations, tlsmith@snu.ac.kr