The Refund Deposit Machine is a device that travelers can use to get their deposit back when using physical one time use cards on lines such as the Seoul Subway and AREX All Stop Train.
Use this machine if you have purchased a single use plastic card that required a 500 won deposit in addition to the normal fare. While the AREX Express Train used these physical cards in the past, it has since moved to a deposit-free system. Currently, only the subway and all stop train continue to issue the physical cards that require a refund.
It is important to note that these machines are only for single use cards and cannot be used for T-money card refunds. If you need to refund the balance on a T-money card, you will need to visit a convenience store or a subway service counter instead.
When you are done traveling and have reached your final destination, exit the turnstiles and then look for these machines. The machines can be found easily at almost all metro stations. If you have just arrived from Incheon International Airport, you will see these located near the exit gates of your destination station.
Next, simply insert your card into the slot to be recycled. After a moment, you will hear your 500 won coin drop into the tray below.
Your transportation card will not be returned to you. Don’t forget to pick up the coin before you head out.
Last Updated on Feb 11, 2026