Incheon Airport to Seoul City Center (Hongdae Entrance) Transportation Guide: A Must-Read for Foreign Tourists
Seoul, as the capital of South Korea, attracts millions of international tourists every year. Incheon International Airport (ICN) is the first stop for most visitors to South Korea, and Hongdae Entrance Station (Hongik University Station) is the preferred destination for many, thanks to its vibrant artistic atmosphere, trendy shops, and lively nightlife. This guide will provide a detailed analysis of the five main transportation options from Incheon Airport to Hongdae Entrance Station, covering time, cost, pros and cons, and useful tips, helping you start your Seoul journey with ease!
Airport Railroad AREX: The Fast and Economical Choice
Express Train (AREX Express) (Direct to Seoul Station only) followed by a transfer to Hongdae Entrance Station.
Route and Time: Incheon Airport T1/T2 Station → Seoul Station (서울역), the express train takes approximately 43 minutes without any stops. At Seoul Station, transfer to the regular train to Hongdae Station (about 15 minutes in total).
Total time: approximately 58 minutes (including transfer and walking time).
Cost: AREX Express Train ticket: 13,000 KRW (purchased on-site) + subway transfer fee: 0 KRW (the transfer time limit is generally 30 minutes, and it’s free only within that time). Total cost = 13,000 KRW.
Money-saving tip: Book in advance on the Klook platform to get a discounted price of 11,500 KRW.
How to Buy Tickets: Tickets can be purchased at the AREX ticket machines or the customer service counters on the B1 level of the airport (both cash and credit card are accepted). Alternatively, book in advance via Klook.
Pros and Cons:
✅ Spacious and comfortable seats, free Wi-Fi and luggage racks, no stops along the way. You can buy tickets directly from international platforms like Klook.
❌ Requires one transfer to the subway, which can be inconvenient if carrying large luggage.
All Stop Train
Route and Time: Incheon Airport T1/T2 Station → Hongdae Station (Hongik University Station), travel time is approximately 53 minutes.
Total time: Approximately 53 minutes
Cost: Departure from T1: 4,350 KRW / Departure from T2: 4,950 KRW
Ticketing Method:
Directly swipe the Korean transportation card (recommended to purchase and recharge in advance).
Pros and Cons:
✅ The most economical, no transfers required.
❌ No reserved seating, may be crowded during peak hours, and it stops at 16 stations along the way.
Airport Bus Route 6002: The Most Convenient Option to Hongdae
Route:
Incheon Airport T1/T2 → Hongdae Entrance Station (Stop: Hongdae Entrance Station), takes about 60-70 minutes.
Cost:
17,000 KRW (Cash or Transportation Card).
Ticketing Method:
Buy tickets at the bus ticket booth outside the arrival hall on the 1st floor of the airport (with signs in Chinese and English).
Frequency: Approximately every 15-20 minutes, operating from 5:15 AM to 10:10 PM.
Pros and Cons:
✅ Direct to Hongdae, spacious seats with space for large luggage, free Wi-Fi on board.
❌ Traffic jams may occur during peak hours (5:00 PM - 8:00 PM).
Taxi: The Comfortable Option for Late-Night Arrivals or Groups of People
Type and Cost: Regular Taxi (Orange/Silver):
The fare to Hongdae Entrance Station is approximately 50,000-70,000 KRW (including tolls of about 3,200 KRW and fuel surcharge of around 8,000 KRW).
Time: 50-70 minutes (depending on traffic conditions).
Large Taxi (Black Model Taxi):
The starting fare is higher (about 6,500 KRW), and the total cost is approximately 80,000-100,000 KRW.
Pickup Point: Designated taxi area on the 1st floor of the airport (follow the “Taxi” signs).
Payment Methods: Cash or credit card (some drivers accept international cards, please confirm with the driver before getting in).
Pros and Cons:
✅ Operates 24 hours, point-to-point service, ideal for groups of 5 or more, some drivers can communicate in international languages (Chinese, English; inquire with the driver before getting in).
❌ High cost, possible price increase during heavy traffic.
Ride-hailing （Kakao T/ Uber）: The Convenient Option for Tech-Savvy Travelers
Kakao T
Cost:
Standard vehicle costs around 50,000 KRW (may be cheaper than directly hailing a taxi).
Steps to Use:
- Download the “Kakao T” app in advance.
- Register and link your international credit card (Visa/Mastercard).
- Enter your destination as “홍대입구역” or in English “Hongik Univ. Station.”
Notes:
- Supports registration with both Korean and international phone numbers, and international credit card binding.
- When booking, choose “General” or “International Taxi” (some drivers may have better English skills).
Pros and Cons:
✅ Vehicles can be reserved in advance, with transparent pricing.
✅ Supports registration with international phone numbers and payment through international bank cards.
❌ A pre-authorization for the fare is made when you get in, and the amount will be refunded after payment. Refunds are fast for Korean cards, but for international cards, they can take anywhere from 3 to 15 days.
Uber
Target Audience: All tourists.
Key Features:
- Supports instant taxi hailing, reservations, and more.
- Supports registration with both Korean and international phone numbers, and linking international credit cards (Visa/Mastercard).
- Supports multiple languages, including Chinese and English.
- More international-friendly compared to Kakao T.
Real-name verification: Overseas phone numbers can be registered, but payments can be linked to both Korean and international bank cards.
Important Notes:
- Only some drivers support foreign language communication, and communication may sometimes require translation software.
Useful Tips: Make Your Journey Smoother
Transportation Card (T-money):
You can buy a T-money card at airport convenience stores (CU/GS25) for 3,000 KRW. After purchasing, you can directly top up at the convenience store, and use the card for subway, bus, and taxi rides.
Transfer Discount: Free transfers between different buses and subways within 30 minutes (up to 4 transfers).
Late-night Arrival (After 23:00):
The subway and buses are no longer in service. Prioritize taking a taxi or pre-booking a Kakao T ride.
Prepare the Korean address in advance: “홍대입구역” (Hongdae Entrance Station) or in English “Hongik University Station.”
Download translation apps (e.g., Papago) to help with communication with drivers or ticket sellers.
Luggage Storage:
On the 3rd floor of Incheon Airport, there are self-service luggage lockers (small luggage 5,000 KRW/day; large luggage approximately 7,000 KRW/day; oversized luggage 10,000 KRW/day or more).
There are also storage lockers near Exit 9 at Hongdae Entrance Station (3,000-6,000 KRW/day depending on luggage size).
Internet and Navigation:
Rent a Wi-Fi machine at the airport (about 10,000 KRW per day) or purchase a prepaid SIM card (KT/SKT counters).
Recommended Navigation:
Naver Map (supports English search, with more accurate real-time traffic updates).
Special Reminder: Avoid Pitfalls!
Beware of Illegal Taxis:
There may be private taxi drivers at the airport charging much higher fees than the market price. Always choose a legitimate taxi or book a ride in advance. Occasionally, even legitimate taxis may have bad drivers who cheat foreigners and overcharge. If this happens, call the Korean emergency number 112 (English and Chinese translation services are available).
Avoid Traffic During Peak Hours:
During weekday evening rush hours (17:00-20:00), there may be severe traffic congestion from the airport to the city center. It’s recommended to use the railway.
Prepare Cash:
Some taxis and small shops do not accept international credit cards, so it’s recommended to withdraw cash from airport ATMs (with lower transaction fees).
Conclusion: Start Your Seoul Journey with Ease!
Whether you are an efficient business traveler, a budget-conscious backpacker, or a family traveler, there are transportation options from Incheon Airport to Hongdae Entrance Station to suit your needs. By planning your route in advance, preparing the Korean address, and having your transportation card ready, you can avoid confusion during your journey.
The area around Hongdae Entrance Station is filled with delicious food, shopping, and art spaces. Wishing you an unforgettable time in Seoul! 🌟
