Essential Tips for Traveling in Korea: Complete Guide to Subway & Transportation Cards + Airport to City
Planning your trip to Korea?
Then you definitely need to know how to use the subway and T-money card!
Let’s also cover in detail how to get from Incheon Airport to downtown Seoul.
1️⃣ What is a T-money Card?
- Korea’s most popular transportation card
- Usable on buses, subways, taxis
- Buy & recharge at convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven)
- Price: 2,500~4,000 KRW for the card + recharge amount
👉 TIP: Recharge at kiosks in subway stations too!
2️⃣ How to Get from Incheon Airport to Seoul
✅ AREX (Airport Railroad Express)
- Express Train: Incheon Airport → Seoul Station (43 minutes, nonstop)
- Fare: ~9,500 KRW
- Reserved seating, spacious luggage area
- All Stop Train: Incheon Airport → Seoul Station (56 minutes, stops at each station)
- Fare: ~4,150 KRW
- No reservation needed
- T-money accepted
👉 TIP: Take the Express for speed, All Stop for budget!
✅ Airport Limousine Bus
- Direct buses to major hotels, tourist spots
- Fare: 15,000~17,000 KRW
- Good for travelers with large luggage
- Luggage assistance provided
- Destinations include Myeongdong, Gangnam, Jongno, Shinchon
👉 TIP: Best if you want door-to-door service.
✅ Taxi
- Airport taxi stand available
- Fare: 40,000~50,000 KRW (tolls extra)
- Recommended for late-night arrivals or lots of luggage
- English-speaking “International Taxi” available (higher fare)
👉 TIP: Beware of traffic during peak hours!
✅ Private Shuttle/Car Service
- Book in advance via Klook, KKday, etc.
- Driver meets you with a name sign
- Private vehicle, fixed schedule
- Fare:
80,000120,000 KRW (depends on vehicle, number of passengers)
✨ Final Tip for Airport Transfer
Choose depending on:
✅ Budget
✅ Luggage amount
✅ Accommodation location
✅ Arrival time
Leave a comment sharing your experience!
