Getting from Gimpo Airport to Seoul? (or Busan) Subway, AREX, Taxi

Just landed at Gimpo Airport and wondering what’s the best way to get into Seoul — or maybe you’re heading straight to Busan? Been there. 

I still remember the first time I walked out of that terminal with zero clue where to go, just hoping I wouldn’t end up on a bus to nowhere. So let me walk you through it.

Where Is Gimpo Airport?

Gimpo International Airport (GMP) is tucked in western Seoul, which makes it a lot closer to downtown compared to Incheon.

• Distance to Seoul Station: Roughly 15 to 20 km
• Travel time: Around 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and your ride of choice

If your hotel’s in Seoul, great — you’re already halfway there. 

If you’re catching a flight or train to Busan, hang tight, I’ll get to that too.

How to Get into Central Seoul from Gimpo?

1. By Subway

Honestly, the subway is my go-to. It’s clean, reliable, and surprisingly easy to navigate — especially if you’ve dealt with subways in other big cities. 

I usually grab a seat, zone out for 20 minutes, and I’m in central Seoul before I know it.

Here’s what runs from Gimpo:

• Line 5 (Purple): Heads to places like Yeouido and Gwanghwamun
• Line 9 (Express): Makes getting to Sinnonhyeon and Gangnam a breeze
• AREX All-Stop: Straight to Hongdae and Seoul Station — no transfers

Fare: Around ₩1,250 to ₩1,350 (about $1 USD with a T-Money card)
Operating hours: About 5:30 AM to midnight

Pro tip: Grab a T-Money card at any convenience store. It’ll save you time and spare you the drama of figuring out ticket machines.

2. By AREX All-Stop Train

Technically, AREX All-Stop is part of the subway system — it’s just got its own name and fewer stops. 

It’s perfect if you’re going to Seoul Station or planning to transfer to a KTX train.

• Route: Gimpo → Digital Media City → Hongdae → Seoul Station
• Travel time: Around 20 minutes to Seoul Station
• Fare: ₩1,450 (about $1.10 USD)
• Trains every: 10 to 15 minutes

Heads up: People sometimes get confused between the AREX All-Stop and the AREX Express. The Express only runs between Incheon and Seoul Station — so from Gimpo, just stick with the All-Stop.

3. Taking a Taxi from Gimpo

Some days, I’m just not in the mood to deal with subways — especially after a long flight. If you’re in the same boat, a taxi can feel like a blessing.

• Fare to central Seoul: ₩15,000 to ₩25,000 ($11 to $19 USD)
• Time: About 30 to 60 minutes depending on traffic
• Available: 24/7, right outside the Arrivals hall

There’s also the deluxe option, which is bigger, fancier, and… yeah, pricier. Totally worth it if you’ve got a lot of luggage or just want to relax.

Trying to Get to Busan from Gimpo?

It’s doable — but not direct. You’ll need to hop over to Seoul Station first.

Here’s the play-by-play:

1. Take Line 5 or AREX All-Stop to Seoul Station (about 20 to 30 minutes)
2. Transfer to a KTX train headed for Busan Station

KTX travel time: 2.5 to 3 hours
Fare: Around ₩50,000 to ₩60,000 ($38 to $46 USD)

Want to make your life easier? Check out this guide for buying KTX tickets.

Luggage Storage at Gimpo?

Got a few hours to kill or just want to roam around baggage-free? Gimpo’s got you covered:

• Coin lockers: You’ll find them near subway entrances and exits
• Cost: ₩2,000 to ₩6,000 per day

Final Thoughts?

Gimpo might not be as fancy as Incheon, but when it comes to getting into Seoul, it wins for convenience. 

Whether you’re hopping on the subway, catching a train to Busan, or just grabbing a taxi and calling it a day — it’s all pretty painless.

If you’re still piecing together your trip, here are some links that might help:

• Things to Do in Seoul
• Where to Stay in Korea
• Complete Guide to Korean Trains

Want a full comparison between Incheon and Gimpo airport options? Here’s a complete guide to getting from the airport to Seoul — including AREX, buses, and taxis.