Airport to Seoul: Arrival & Transportation Guide

Landing in Korea can be exciting, and a little overwhelming. 

I still remember my first time stepping out of Incheon International Airport. I was sleep-deprived, dragging my suitcase behind me, scanning signs in four different languages, and just hoping I wouldn’t accidentally board a train to the wrong city. 😅

One of the biggest questions on my mind was, “How do I get from Seoul airport to the city?” and “How far is Seoul from the airport?”

This guide is here to help you figure things out before you’re standing in the arrivals hall wondering where to go next.

How do I Get From Airport to The City?

Seoul is served by two main airports:

• Incheon International Airport (ICN): This is the major international hub. It’s about 50 km from central Seoul, which usually means around 60–90 minutes of travel, depending on traffic and transport.
• Gimpo International Airport (GMP): Mainly used for domestic flights and some short-haul international routes. It’s much closer — about 20 km away, and takes 20–30 minutes by subway or taxi.

Chances are you’ll be flying into Incheon. So, let’s focus more on that.

Flying into Gimpo instead of Incheon? No worries — we also have a full guide on getting from Gimpo Airport to Seoul or Busan if you’re connecting by train.

What is the Best Way to Get from Airport to Seoul?

When I landed, I had no idea which way was best. I just saw signs for trains, buses, taxis — and honestly, it was too much. Here’s what I wish I had known:

Tip: If your flight arrives at night (past 10 PM), some options like the AREX Express might not be running. Plan ahead!

Still unsure? We compared all options in our article on AREX vs Airport Bus vs Taxi, including pros, cons, and when to pick each one.

1. AREX Trains

AREX is one of the easiest ways to get into the city — especially if you’re heading to Seoul Station or Hongdae. There are two options:

• Express Train: Direct to Seoul Station, no stops.
• All-Stop Train: Stops at every major station including Hongdae and Digital Media City.

First time riding AREX? No worries. We made a full step-by-step guide for taking the AREX Airport Express just for you.

2. Limousine Bus

These comfortable buses offer a direct ride to many hotels and neighborhoods like Myeongdong, Gangnam, and Itaewon. There’s space for big luggage and no transfers.

Curious how it works? Check our guide on taking the Airport Limousine Bus in Korea — includes ticket counters, routes, and arrival tips.

3. Taxis

Available 24/7, taxis are great for convenience, especially if you’re arriving with a group or at night. Just note there’s a 20% surcharge after midnight. Prices vary depending on traffic.

4. Private Pickup

Want a driver waiting with your name sign? Book a van or car in advance. This is the priciest option, but it’s great if you’re traveling with lots of luggage or small kids.

Buying T-Money & SIM Card on Arrival

I highly recommend grabbing a T-Money card as soon as you land. It makes hopping on subways and buses way easier.

Where to Buy T-Money:

• Convenience stores inside the airport: CU, GS25, 7-Eleven
• Price: ₩2,500 for the card, then top up with at least ₩5,000
• Use for: Subways, buses, some taxis, even vending machines!

Getting a SIM Card or eSIM

Staying connected is super helpful — especially if you’re using navigation apps or translating signs.

• Buy at airport booths: Look for KT, LG U+, or SK Telecom counters in the Arrival Hall.
• Open 24/7 most of the time
• Price: Starts from ₩27,500 for 5 days of unlimited data
• Tip: You can also pre-order via Klook or Trazy and just pick up at the airport.

Want full prices, locations, and tips? Check our guide on where to get T-Money, SIM cards, and exchange money at the airport.

Where to Store Your Luggage at the Airport?

If you arrive early and your hotel isn’t ready yet, carrying your suitcase around Seoul isn’t fun. Here are your options:

Coin Lockers:

• Found all over the airport, especially near subway exits
• Cost: ₩2,000–₩6,000 per 4 hours (depending on size)
• Use time: Usually up to 24 hours

Luggage Delivery:

• Send your bags straight to your hotel
• Cost: Around ₩15,000–25,000 per bag
• Vendors: Look for Safex or Hanjin desks in the airport

This saved me so much stress on my last trip — I dropped off my bag and went straight to explore Hongdae.

We explain both in detail (including prices, locations, and how to pay) in our Incheon Airport luggage & locker guide.

Late-Night Arrivals, What Are Your Options?

Flights that land after 10 PM are common, and trust me — figuring out transport at that hour when you’re jetlagged isn’t fun. Here’s what you can do:

1. AREX Trains

• Last Express train: Around 10:40 PM
• All-Stop Line: Runs till around 11:40 PM

2. Limousine Bus

• Some routes run until 1:00 AM
• Destinations include major areas like Gangnam or Myeongdong

3. Taxis

• Available 24/7
• Expect 20% surcharge after midnight

4. Private Pickup

• Book in advance
• Fixed pricing and the driver waits even if your flight is delayed

Extra Tip: If you’re arriving super late and exhausted, staying at an airport hotel might be your best bet. Look up Darakhyu Capsule Hotel — it’s inside the terminal.

Where Are You Headed First?

If you’re staying in Hongdae, Myeongdong, or Gangnam, we’ve mapped out the easiest routes based on where you land. Read our detailed guide on how to get from Incheon Airport to Hongdae, Myeongdong, Gangnam, and more.

Final Thoughts?

Your first hour in Korea doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little prep, you can go from touchdown to exploring the streets of Seoul like a pro.

I hope this guide made things feel a bit less chaotic. You’ve got this! 🙌 Whether you’re headed to a cozy guesthouse in Hongdae or a hotel in Gangnam, your journey starts here.