Korea Travel Essential Guide: Transport, SIM, Food & Must-Know Tips

Getting from the Airport to Seoul

There are 3 main options: AREX (train), Airport Limousine Bus, and Taxi.
Each option depends on your arrival time, luggage, and where your accommodation is located.

1. AREX Airport Express (Fastest)

AREX is usually the quickest and most affordable way to get into Seoul. There’s no traffic, and the ride is smooth and comfortable.

Travel time: ~43–50 minutes
Price: around ₩9,500–₩13,000
Good for: when your accommodation is close to a subway line

If you buy your AREX ticket online in advance, it’s usually a little cheaper than buying at the airport. 👉 Buy AREX Tickets Online (Discounted)

📌 Tip: If your place requires multiple transfers or the subway is far, the Airport Bus might be more convenient.

2. Airport Limousine Bus (Most Comfortable)

If your accommodation isn’t close to a subway station, the airport limousine bus may be the best option. It stops near major hotels and popular areas, and they’ll store your luggage for you. You can purchase a ticket at the machines or the ticket counter.

From the airport to Seoul, you must buy a bus ticket first (T-money is not accepted).
But from Seoul to the airport, T-money card usually works.

Travel time: 60–80 minutes (depending on traffic)
Price: around ₩15,000–₩17,000
Good for: luggage, minimal transfers, comfortable ride

Even though it’s slightly more expensive than AREX, it’s still very reasonable and stress-free. If you want more detailed information about routes, prices, and real-time schedules, we’ve written a full guide here 👇
Read the full Airport to Seoul guide

3. Taxi / Jumbo Taxi (Most Convenient)

If you’re traveling with multiple people or large luggage, a taxi can be surprisingly cost-efficient.

Travel time: 50–70 minutes
Price: around ₩65,000–₩85,000
Jumbo taxi: recommended for 3+ passengers with luggage

You can also book a taxi in advance here 👇

4. Arriving Late at Night?

Most regular airport buses run from around 05:30–06:00 AM until about 10:00–10:30 PM.
If you arrive after that, you can take a Night Bus (N Bus), which operates from roughly 11:00 PM to 4:40 AM.
In that case, it’s easiest to get off at the closest major stop and take a short taxi ride to your accommodation.

You can check more details such as where to catch the night bus and the full timetable 👉🏻 right here.

✨ Quick Recommendations

• Close to subway = AREX
• Far from subway OR heavy luggage = Airport Bus
• 3+ people = Jumbo Taxi
• Arriving past 10 PM = Late bus + short taxi