Incheon Airport to Seoul by Subway: AREX All-Stop vs Express Train
How to ride the AREX airport railroad from Incheon Airport T1 and T2 to Seoul Station, Hongdae, Myeongdong and Gangnam, and which train to take.
The AREX airport railroad in a nutshell
AREX runs from Incheon Airport Terminals 1 and 2 through Gimpo Airport, Digital Media City, Hongik University and Gongdeok to Seoul Station. It never sits in traffic and costs a fraction of a taxi, which is why most visitors use it.
From arrivals, follow the “Train to City” signs to the AREX station. Trains from Terminal 2 stop at Terminal 1 on the way.
All-stop train or express train?
All-stop trains call at every station and take about an hour from Terminal 1 to Seoul Station. You simply tap a T-money card, and changing to the subway counts as a transfer. For most visitors this is the easiest and cheapest option.
Express trains run non-stop to Seoul Station (about 43 minutes from Terminal 1, 51 from Terminal 2). Seats are reserved, you need a separate ticket and it costs more. It's worth it if you're staying near Seoul Station or want a guaranteed seat with big luggage.
Where to change for your hotel
Hongdae and Yeonnam-dong: get off at Hongik University. The walk from the AREX platform to Line 2 is long, so allow a few extra minutes.
Myeongdong and Dongdaemun: change at Seoul Station to Line 4 (Myeongdong is two stops). The AREX platforms at Seoul Station are very deep, so the transfer takes around 10 minutes.
Itaewon: change at Gongdeok to Line 6. Gangnam: change at Gimpo Airport to a Line 9 express train, which runs straight to Sinnonhyeon, a short walk from Gangnam.
Landing late?
AREX runs from early morning until around midnight. If you land late, check the last train time on the AREX website first; if you miss it, take a late-night bus or a taxi.