How to Take AREX Airport Express? Step-by-Step Guide for First-Timers

What’s the easiest way to get from Incheon Airport to Seoul without losing your mind?

If you’re tired, jetlagged, and trying to figure out your first move after landing, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too. The signs, the options, the crowds… it can be a lot.

That’s why this guide is here: to walk you through the AREX Airport Express, so you can ride with confidence, not confusion.

And in case you’re wondering, yes – AREX stands for Airport Railroad Express. So when someone says “take the airport railroad,” they mean AREX.

AREX Express vs All-Stop Line?

There are two types of trains on the AREX line, and knowing the difference can save you both time and stress:

1. AREX Express

• Route: Non-stop from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station
• Travel Time: Around 43 to 51 minutes, depending on your terminal
• Price: ₩9,500 + ₩500 refundable deposit (total ₩10,000), roughly USD 7.30
• Seats: Reserved seats – no stress about finding a spot
• Extras: Free Wi-Fi, power outlets, large luggage space, comfy seats
• Discounts: Often available via Klook, Creatrip, or airline promos

This is the best option if you want a quiet, smooth ride straight to the city without making any stops.

2. AREX All-Stop

• Route: Stops at 13 stations between Incheon and Seoul Station
• Travel Time: Around 59 to 66 minutes
• Price: ₩4,750, roughly USD 3.50
• Seats: No reservations – grab what you can
• Extras: Standard subway-style setup

This is a great pick if you’re staying somewhere like Hongdae, Digital Media City, or Gimpo Airport, or if you’re traveling on a tighter budget.

Confused about which to take? Here’s a quick tip:

• If you’re staying near Seoul Station → Express
• If you’re going to Hongdae, Gimpo, or want to save money → All-Stop

Not sure which station is closest to your hotel? Check this guide that shows how to reach popular areas like Hongdae, Myeongdong, and Gangnam.

How to Buy AREX Tickets?

You don’t need to worry about standing in long lines – here are your options:

• For AREX Express:
  • Book online through platforms like Klook, Creatrip, or Trazy
  • Buy tickets at vending machines or ticket counters at the airport
  • Machines support multiple languages and payment methods
• For AREX All-Stop:
  • Simply tap your T-Money card at the gate
  • Or buy a single-use ticket at the machine (includes a ₩500 refundable deposit)

Pro tip: Get a T-Money card at the airport if you’ll be using public transport around Seoul – it’ll save you time and effort later.

And yes – you can use T-Money for AREX All-Stop, just not for the Express train.

Don’t have a T-Money card yet? Here’s where to buy one at the airport along with a SIM card and money exchange.

Where to Board at Incheon Airport?

No need to panic when you land. The AREX platforms are easy to find:

• Terminal 1: Head to B1 level, near Exit 8
• Terminal 2: Go to B1 level, inside the Transportation Center

Follow the signs for “Airport Railroad.” They’re in English and well-marked. Just make sure to check the signs – Express and All-Stop depart from different platforms.

Don’t worry – signs are in English, Korean, Chinese, and Japanese. Just look for the purple AREX symbol.

How to Transfer from AREX to Subway or Bus?

If your hotel isn’t near Seoul Station, you’ll likely need to transfer:

• When you arrive at Seoul Station, the Express platform is separate from other lines.
• You’ll need to walk about 5 to 10 minutes to get to Subway Line 1 or Line 4.

Using a T-Money card? You can transfer without paying again – just make sure it’s within the transfer time window.

Good to know: Luggage carts and elevators are available at Seoul Station, and there’s plenty of space to navigate even with big suitcases.

Got extra bags? You can store luggage or use delivery services at the airport or Seoul Station to lighten your load.

Tips for First-Time Riders

Here are some small things that can make a big difference:

1. Book ahead if you want Express tickets during busy travel periods – they can sell out.
2. Use All-Stop if you’re staying near one of the intermediate stations.
3. Check train times if you’re arriving late – the last AREX Express usually leaves around 10:50 PM.
4. Traveling with Korean Air, Asiana, or Jeju Air? You can use the City Airport Terminal at Seoul Station to check in your luggage early.
5. Discount sites like Klook and Creatrip usually offer cheaper rates – plus you can skip the ticket machines altogether.
6. Wondering about Uber? It’s not widely used in Korea. For taxi or ride-sharing, Kakao T is the go-to app.
7. Still unsure what’s the best way to get from Incheon Airport to Seoul? AREX is one of the most affordable, reliable, and beginner-friendly options. Here’s a full breakdown of AREX vs. Bus vs. Taxi to help you decide.

Final Thoughts

At the end of a long flight, you deserve a smooth and simple ride into the city. The AREX – whether you go with the non-stop Express or the budget-friendly All-Stop – is one of the most straightforward ways to do just that.

It’s clean, reliable, and easy even if it’s your first time in Korea. Plus, it saves you the headache of haggling with taxi drivers or getting lost in the bus lanes.

Still weighing your options? Take a look at our full comparison of AREX vs. airport bus vs. taxi to see what suits your trip best.

If you want a full overview of airport transport options, check out our Incheon to Seoul transportation guide for more options.

Transferring at Gimpo? Here’s how to get from Gimpo Airport to Seoul or even Busan.