A Guide for International Visitors
If you’re arriving at Incheon International Airport and heading to cities like Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, or Daejeon instead of Seoul, here are the best transportation options available.
1. Domestic Flights
- Most domestic flights depart from Gimpo Airport, not Incheon.
- To reach Gimpo Airport from Incheon:
- Take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) (~40 minutes)
- Or use an airport limousine bus (~1 hour)
- Destinations include Busan, Jeju, Gwangju, Ulsan, and Pohang.
- Airlines: Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Jeju Air, Jin Air, and others.
Note: A few domestic flights (especially to Jeju) may depart directly from Incheon. Always check with your airline.
2. KTX High-Speed Train
- Take the AREX from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station or Gwangmyeong Station.
- Transfer to a KTX train for major cities:
- Seoul → Busan (~2.5 hours)
- Seoul → Gwangju (~2 hours)
- Seoul → Daegu or Daejeon (~1–1.5 hours)
3. Intercity and Express Buses
- Direct long-distance buses run from Terminals 1 and 2 to major cities.
- Destinations include Busan, Daegu, Jeonju, Sokcho, and more.
- Example travel times:
- Incheon → Busan: ~5–6 hours
- Incheon → Jeonju: ~3.5 hours
4. Rental Car
- Good for families or those with flexible plans.
- Rental counters are available at the airport.
- Requirements:
- International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Valid passport
- Credit card
- Note: Toll roads are common, and parking may be limited in some urban areas.
Summary
| Method | Best For | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic Flight | Speed, Jeju-bound travelers | Transfer to Gimpo usually required |
| KTX Train | Fast, comfortable travel | Requires transfer to Seoul station |
| Express Bus | Budget-friendly, direct routes | Longer travel time, good coverage |
| Rental Car | Freedom, scenic travel | Driving experience and IDP required |
- Plan enough transfer time if you need to move between airports or stations.
- Purchase tickets in advance during holidays or weekends.
- Check final bus/train times, especially if arriving late at night.