Last Updated on 2025 年 5 月 25 日 by 総合編集組
Ultimate Guide to Late-Night Transportation from Incheon Airport to Seoul and 7 Top Attractions
Introduction: Embrace Seoul’s Late-Night Charm
Seoul, often dubbed the “City that Never Sleeps,” radiates vibrant energy even under the cover of night. For travelers landing at Incheon International Airport (ICN) on a late-night flight, navigating transportation to Seoul’s city center can seem daunting. However, with the right guidance, this journey becomes an exciting prelude to exploring Seoul’s neon-lit streets and serene Han River views.
This comprehensive guide offers detailed, professional, and original insights into late-night transportation options from Incheon Airport to Seoul, including routes to seven must-visit attractions: Myeongdong, Namdaemun, Gyeongbokgung, Hongdae, Dongdaemun, Seongsu-dong, Gangnam, and Lotte World. Whether you prioritize speed, affordability, or comfort, this guide ensures a seamless start to your Seoul adventure.
Incheon International Airport: Your Gateway to Seoul
Incheon International Airport, South Korea’s primary aviation hub, serves millions annually through its two terminals (T1 and T2). For late-night arrivals, understanding transportation options is crucial, especially since public transport may have limited schedules. This guide covers three main options—Airport Railroad (AREX), late-night buses (N-Bus), and taxis—along with an overnight stay option at the airport.
Airport Railroad (AREX): Fast and Reliable
The Airport Railroad (AREX) is the fastest and most dependable way to reach Seoul’s city center, offering two types of trains: Express and All-Stop.
- Express Train: This non-stop service connects Incheon Airport to Seoul Station in approximately 43 minutes from Terminal 1 and 51 minutes from Terminal 2. Operating from 05:15 AM to 10:40 PM with 40-minute intervals, it costs around 9,500 KRW for adults and 7,500 KRW for children (6-12 years). Online platforms like Klook or KKday offer discounted fares (as low as 8,250-8,300 KRW), saving about 500 KRW compared to on-site purchases. Features include free Wi-Fi, charging ports, and spacious luggage areas, ideal for travelers with heavy bags. Note: The last train departs at 10:40 PM, so late-night arrivals after this time must consider alternatives.
- All-Stop Train: A budget-friendly option, the All-Stop Train stops at stations like Unseo, Yeongjong, Geomam, Gyeyang, Gimpo Airport, Digital Media City, Hongdae, Gongdeok, and Seoul Station. It takes about 59 minutes to Seoul Station and 53-59 minutes to Hongdae from Terminal 1, costing 4,450-5,050 KRW to Seoul Station or 4,350-4,950 KRW to Hongdae. Payment via T-money card simplifies boarding, and the direct route to Hongdae is perfect for those staying in this trendy area.
- T-money Card: Essential for seamless travel, T-money cards cost 2,500-4,000 KRW and can be purchased or recharged at airport convenience stores (e.g., GS25, CU, 7-Eleven). Recharge amounts range from 1,000 to 90,000 KRW, offering a 100 KRW discount per ride and free transfers within 30 minutes (60 minutes from 9:00 PM to 7:00 AM). This card is a must for late-night travelers to avoid cash exchanges and language barriers.
Late-Night Buses (N-Bus): Affordable and Wide-Reaching
When AREX stops running, late-night buses (N-Bus) provide an economical alternative, covering key Seoul districts. Key routes include:
- N6000: Incheon Airport to Gangnam Express Bus Terminal
- N6001/N6002: Incheon Airport to Seoul Station
- N6701: Incheon Airport to Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
- N6703: Incheon Airport to Jamsil (Lotte World)
Buses operate from 11:50 PM to 4:40 AM (Terminal 1) with 40-60 minute intervals, costing 17,000-18,000 KRW for adults and 10,000-12,000 KRW for children. Tickets can be paid with T-money, cash, or TmoneyGO App. Boarding locations are at Terminal 1 (1F, Gates 3 or 6) and Terminal 2 (B1, Gate 20). Caution: A transportation gap exists between 4:40 AM and 5:15 AM, requiring taxis or private cars as alternatives.
Taxis: Flexibility and Comfort
For ultimate convenience, especially during public transport gaps, taxis offer door-to-door service. Seoul’s taxis include:
- Regular Taxis: White, silver, or orange with a “TAXI” sign. Base fare is 4,800 KRW (1.6 km), with 100 KRW added every 131 meters or 30 seconds. Late-night surcharges apply: 20% from 10:00 PM-11:00 PM and 2:00 AM-4:00 AM, and 40% from 11:00 PM-2:00 AM.
- Deluxe/Large Taxis: Black with “Deluxe” or “Large” markings. Base fare is 7,000 KRW (3 km), with 200 KRW per 151 meters or 36 seconds, and no late-night surcharge, making them cost-competitive during peak surcharge hours.
- International Taxis: Designed for foreigners, with drivers fluent in English, Japanese, or Chinese. Fixed fares from Incheon to Seoul range from 70,000-95,000 KRW, with a 20% surcharge for metered city rides. Pre-booking (24 hours in advance) is required.
Using apps like Kakao T, TADA, or Uber/UT ensures transparency in fares and routes, minimizing language barriers. Safety tips include verifying license plates (with “아, 바, 사, 자”), avoiding unsolicited drivers, and keeping receipts.
Overnight Option: Darakhyu Capsule Hotel
For very late arrivals or long layovers, the Darakhyu Capsule Hotel at Incheon Airport offers a comfortable stay without leaving the airport. Rates for a 12-hour stay are 58,000 KRW (single, shared bathroom), 66,000 KRW (single, private bathroom), 73,000 KRW (double, shared bathroom), and 79,000 KRW (double, private bathroom).
Transportation to 7 Popular Seoul Attractions
The guide details routes from Incheon Airport to seven iconic Seoul destinations, with estimated times and costs (using T-money, non-surcharge taxi fares):
- Myeongdong/Namdaemun: 50-70 min, 11,000-55,000 KRW. Take AREX Express to Seoul Station (9,500 KRW), then Metro Line 4 to Myeongdong (1,400-1,550 KRW). Taxis take 65-70 min (50,000-55,000 KRW).
- Gyeongbokgung/Samcheong-dong/Ikseon-dong: 55-80 min, 11,000-48,500 KRW. AREX Express to Seoul Station, then Line 3 to Anguk or Gyeongbokgung Station. Taxis take 70-80 min.
- Hongdae/Ewha: 55-70 min, 4,500-51,000 KRW. AREX All-Stop to Hongdae (4,350-4,950 KRW) is the cheapest and fastest. Taxis take 55-60 min.
- Dongdaemun: 50-90 min, 11,000-55,000 KRW. AREX Express to Seoul Station, then Line 4, or N6701 bus (18,000 KRW). Taxis take 80-90 min.
- Seongsu-dong: 95-105 min, 5,750-48,000 KRW. AREX All-Stop to Hongdae, then Line 2 to Seongsu. Taxis take ~100 min.
- Gangnam: 70-90 min, 11,000-50,000 KRW. AREX Express to Seoul Station, then Line 9, or N6703 bus. Taxis take ~90 min.
- Lotte World: 75-85 min, 11,000-60,500 KRW. AREX Express to Seoul Station, then Line 2, or N6703 bus. Taxis take ~79 min.
Conclusion and Tips
Choose AREX for speed (pre-10:40 PM), N-Bus for affordability, or taxis for convenience. Pre-plan with flight and transport schedules, use T-money for discounts, and opt for apps like Kakao T for safe taxi rides. Avoid DCC when paying by card and verify taxi legitimacy. With this guide, your late-night arrival in Seoul will be smooth and exciting, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey.
