How to Take the Airport Railroad (AREX) from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station

How to Take the Airport Railroad (AREX) from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station

Step 1: After Arrival

After passing through immigration, baggage claim, and customs, exit to the Arrivals Hall at Incheon International Airport (Terminal 1 or Terminal 2).

Step 2: Finding the Airport Railroad (AREX)

Look for signs saying "Airport Railroad" or "AREX". In Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, AREX is located at Basement Level 1 (B1). Follow clearly marked signs pointing downward toward the trains.

Step 3: Choosing the Type of AREX Train

You have two options to reach Seoul Station:

• Express Train (Non-stop): Direct from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station without stops. Travel time: approximately 43 minutes. Cost: about 9,500 KRW (7-8 USD). Seats are reserved and it’s less crowded.
• All-stop Train (Local): Stops at every station between the airport and Seoul Station (about 12 stations). Travel time: approximately 60 minutes. Cost: about 4,250 KRW (3-4 USD). More affordable but may be crowded during peak hours.

Recommendation: For convenience and comfort, first-time travelers often choose the Express Train.

Step 4: Buying a Ticket

At the AREX station, look for automatic ticket machines with instructions in English. Select your destination (Seoul Station), number of passengers, and train type (Express or All-stop). You can pay using cash (Korean Won), credit/debit card, or a T-money card (available at convenience stores).

Tip: Purchasing a T-money card is useful for additional transportation in Seoul.

Step 5: Entering the Platform

Use your ticket (paper or T-money card) to pass through the electronic gates by tapping it on the reader. Keep your ticket safe as you'll need it to exit at your destination.

Step 6: Boarding the Train

Check the electronic signboards for the destination (Seoul Station) and departure time. Stand behind the yellow safety line until the train arrives. For the Express Train, sit in the reserved seat shown on your ticket; for the All-stop Train, choose any available seat.

Step 7: Arrival at Seoul Station

When the train arrives at Seoul Station, follow the signs marked "Exit" and tap your ticket or T-money card at the exit gate.

Step 8: Exiting Seoul Station

After exiting the gate, you will be at Seoul Station, a central hub offering connections to subways, buses, and taxis. Follow the English signs to reach your next destination.

Additional Tips

• AREX station staff generally speak basic English and can assist if needed.
• Free Wi-Fi is available on AREX trains.
• Seoul Station connects directly to subway lines 1 and 4, providing easy access throughout the city.

Enjoy your visit to Korea!

AREX Fare Details

All-stop Train (Local Service)

Fare: 4,250 KRW (~$3.50 USD)

This train makes multiple stops (about 12 stations) between Incheon Airport and Seoul Station. It takes approximately 60 minutes to reach your destination and is a more economical option.

Express Train (Non-stop Service)

Fare: 9,500 KRW (~$7.90 USD)

The Express train offers a direct, non-stop service from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station, reducing the travel time to approximately 43 minutes. Seats are reserved and provide extra comfort.

Additional Information

Tickets can be purchased at the AREX station using ticket machines with English instructions. Payment methods include cash (KRW), credit/debit cards, or a T-money card.

A T-money card is also useful for other public transportation in Seoul, such as subways and buses.

Please note that fares are subject to change. The USD conversions are approximate, based on an exchange rate of 1 USD ≈ 1,200 KRW.