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Incheon Airport to Seoul
what's the best option?
AREX, limousine bus, subway, taxi — here's exactly which option works for your situation.
Quick Answer
Take the AREX Express to Seoul Station (43 min, ₩13,000). Pay with a foreign credit card at the ticket machine. If you have a lot of luggage, take the Limousine Bus to your hotel area instead.
Incheon Airport options
All times are approximate and may vary by traffic.
Not sure which to take? We break down each option in detail — including what to do if you land after midnight.
By route
Best options depending on where you're going.
Incheon Airport → Seoul City Center
AREX Express to Seoul Station (43 min, ₩13,000)
AREX All-stop to Seoul Station (66 min, ₩4,950)
Limousine Bus to your hotel area (60–90 min, ₩17,000)
Kakao Taxi (no subway after midnight)
Gimpo Airport → Seoul City Center
Subway Line 9 to Gimpo Int'l Airport Station (20–30 min, ₩1,400)
Taxi (20–30 min, ₩15,000–25,000)
Kakao Taxi
Things to know
Practical tips for getting around smoothly.
💡 Buy T-money at the airport
Get a T-money card at the convenience store (GS25, CU) in the arrival hall. Load ₩20,000–30,000. Works on all subway and buses.
💡 AREX Express needs a ticket
Buy at the AREX ticket machine or counter. Accepts foreign credit cards. The express train goes direct to Seoul Station — no stops.
💡 Limousine bus drops at hotels
Different bus lines go to different areas (Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gangnam). Check the route map before boarding. Buy ticket at the bus counter.
💡 Kakao Taxi for late nights
Download Kakao T app before arrival. Add your card. Works in English. Best option after midnight when AREX stops running.
Also helpful
Terminal 1 or Terminal 2?
Incheon Airport has two terminals. Check your ticket before you arrive.
Terminal 1
Asiana Airlines, Jeju Air, Jin Air, Air Busan, and most international carriers.
AREX station is directly connected underground.
Terminal 2
Korean Air, Delta, Air France, KLM, and select partners.
AREX station is a short walk from the arrivals hall. Follow signs for "Airport Railroad."
⚠️ Both terminals share the same AREX line. The express train stops at Terminal 2 first, then Terminal 1, then Seoul Station. If you're at Terminal 1, the train goes direct to Seoul Station.
AREX operating hours
Arriving late? Check if the train is still running.
AREX Express
5:20 AM – 10:48 PM
From Incheon T1 to Seoul Station
AREX All-stop
5:24 AM – 11:38 PM
From Incheon T1, stops at all stations
After midnight
No AREX service
Take Kakao Taxi or a regular taxi instead
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a foreign credit card on AREX?
Yes. The AREX ticket machines at the airport accept Visa, Mastercard, and most foreign credit cards. You can also pay with a T-money card loaded with cash.
How long does it take from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station?
The AREX Express takes 43 minutes non-stop. The All-stop train takes about 66 minutes with stops along the way.
What is the cheapest way from Incheon Airport to Seoul?
The AREX All-stop train is ₩4,950 and the cheapest reliable option. The subway via Line 9 is slightly cheaper but involves transfers and is not recommended with heavy luggage.
Is there a direct bus from Incheon Airport to my hotel?
Yes. The KAL Limousine Bus service covers major hotel areas including Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Gangnam. You can book in advance or buy tickets at the bus counter in the arrivals hall.
What should I do if I arrive after midnight?
AREX and buses stop running after midnight. Your best option is Kakao Taxi. Download the Kakao T app before you arrive, add your foreign credit card, and you can request a taxi directly from the airport.
What is the difference between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at Incheon?
Terminal 2 is used by Korean Air, Delta, Air France, and KLM. Terminal 1 is used by most other airlines. Both terminals have AREX stations. The express train stops at Terminal 2 before Terminal 1.