Purpose Sign design in public facilities is one of the most important factors for information transmission because it helps people to easily understand the meaning of the signs in the complex public environments. So we investigated designs of public signs of three intercity bus terminals in Seoul and suggested the direction of effective public signs. Methods Firstly, we analyzed research trends of the color environment of public signs through the literature review. Secondly, we measured color schemes of the signs, and analyzed whether Color Universal Design was applied to the signs or not, considering the visually handicapped at the bus terminals (Gangnam, Dongseoul, and Southern). Results Firstly, the color schemes of all three sites lacked coherence and color contrast of the signs was unclear, so it was difficult for the visually handicapped to understand information. Secondly, the signs of the Dongseoul and the Southern terminals showed high visibility but low perceived quality because of the higher chroma of background than that of contents. Thirdly, the signs of all sites lacked the uniformity, and color connections with connected subways. Implications The signs of the bus terminals in Seoul are required redesign for the visually handicapped. At this point, we should consider consistency, color contrast, saturation adjustment, and uniformity in sign design. Then, public facilities will be improved to effective spaces.