Your comprehensive guide to Seoul's airports

In recent years, South Korea has emerged as a must-visit destination, fueled by the growing appeal of its modern culture and cuisine. Thankfully, Seoul is equipped with two major airports to accommodate the increasing number of travelers: Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP). Both airports facilitate easy access for international visitors to the Land of the Morning Calm and travel within the country.

Gimpo International Airport (GMP)

Gimpo International Airport (GMP) is the smaller of Seoul's two international airports, primarily catering to domestic flights and international routes within Asia. Until the opening of Incheon International Airport in 2001, GMP was the city's sole major international airport.

Location

Among the two airports in Seoul, Gimpo is the closest to the city center, situated about 10 miles away. Its convenient location makes it a preferred choice for locals traveling to other regions of South Korea, including Busan, Jeju Island, and Daegu. It’s also popular for short trips to cities in Japan like Tokyo and Osaka, or to Shanghai in China. While it's possible to fly from the US via Gimpo, it usually requires a layover and is generally more expensive than using Incheon.

Terminals

Gimpo has just two terminals: one dedicated to domestic flights and the other for international travel.

The domestic terminal is where you’ll find flights to inter-Korea destinations. Airlines operating from this terminal include Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Air Busan, Jeju Air, T'way Air, and Jin Air.

The international terminal hosts airlines such as Japan Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, All Nippon Airways, and various South Korean carriers serving both regional and global destinations. Arriving passengers will need to go through immigration here.

A shuttle bus is available to transport passengers between the two terminals.

How to reach Gimpo?

Gimpo International Airport is conveniently accessible via rideshare or public transport. You can catch the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) train from Seoul Station (be sure to board the all-stop train), which services both airports and takes about 20-30 minutes to reach Gimpo.

Alternatively, you can use Line 5 or Line 9 of the Seoul Metro, both of which stop at Gimpo. Pro tip: Line 9 is an express line with fewer stops, potentially getting you to the airport faster depending on your starting point. Whichever line you choose, be prepared for a bit of a walk to the terminals.

There are several bus routes available to take you to Gimpo. Regardless of which terminal you're heading to, make your way to the second floor for check-in.

What can you do at Gimpo International Airport?

Being a smaller airport, I find that you don’t need to arrive as early as you would at Incheon. For domestic flights, arriving an hour in advance is usually sufficient, even with checked baggage. However, if you find yourself with some spare time at Gimpo, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained.

If you arrive by subway, you'll pass the Lotte Mall on your way (or you can easily visit if you opted for a rideshare). The mall features a variety of shops, supermarkets, and even a movie theater. You can conveniently leave your bags at a luggage check-in station before exploring, making it easy to shop without the hassle of carrying your luggage.

If you're flying in or out of the international terminal, you'll find duty-free shopping at Lotte and Shilla, along with a small food court. Just a heads-up: there's only one coffee shop beyond security, so if you're in need of caffeine, consider grabbing a cup beforehand.

The domestic terminal has fewer dining options, which is perfectly fine since most flights are quite short. However, you can still enjoy a tasty brown sugar boba at Gong-Cha and browse popular K-beauty products at Designskin while you wait.

Incheon International Airport (ICN)

This relatively new airport in Seoul serves as South Korea's primary international hub. Visitors are often struck by its contemporary design and the wide variety of high-end and mid-range shops and dining options available. It even includes an in-airport hotel, a spa, and cultural tour experiences. With such amenities, it's no wonder that Incheon frequently ranks as one of the best airports in the world.

Location

Incheon International Airport (ICN) is situated approximately 30 miles from Seoul and is likely where you'll arrive and depart if you're coming from abroad, such as the US. A majority of international airlines operate flights to and from Incheon.

Terminals

Incheon features two terminals, each catering to different airlines.

Terminal 1 is home to a diverse range of major international carriers like United, Lufthansa, and Air Canada, along with budget airlines such as the newer Air Premia, and regional airlines like Jeju Air and VietJet Air. As the larger of the two terminals, it also boasts luxury shops like Louis Vuitton and Chanel, impressing visitors with its stunning architectural design.

Terminal 2 primarily caters to airlines in the SkyTeam alliance, including Korean Airlines, Delta, and Air France. This terminal features several airport lounges, and on the fifth floor, you'll find a small observation deck that’s perfect for entertaining active children.

How to get there?

One of the simplest ways to reach Incheon is by taking the AREX train from Seoul Station. The all-stop train takes about an hour to arrive at Terminal 1, with Terminal 2 requiring just a few extra minutes. I prefer the Express Train, which has fewer stops and reaches Incheon in roughly 45 minutes.

If you're not near an AREX station, you can take the Seoul Metro and transfer to an AREX station at stops like Seoul Station, Hongik University, or Gimpo International Airport.

Alternatively, taxis or rideshares are available, taking about an hour to 90 minutes. However, due to heavy traffic in Seoul, it's wise to allow for extra time beyond your initial estimate.

What can you do at Incheon International Airport?

Incheon International Airport offers a wealth of activities. I often make it a point to arrive a few hours early so I can shop for last-minute souvenirs and indulge in one last delicious Korean meal before my flight back to the US.

Don’t forget to visit the stunningly designed Baskin Robbins in Terminal 1 and grab some Korean face masks at the Lotte Duty Free store. Luxury enthusiasts will be pleased to find boutiques for Cartier, Hermes, Prada, and many other high-end labels.

Beyond the numerous cultural exhibits in both terminals, you can also enjoy live performances that celebrate Korean heritage. During my last visit to Incheon, I was lucky enough to catch a mesmerizing display of traditional dancers and drummers.

If you find yourself with a long layover or an early morning flight, consider booking a room at the Transit Hotel in Terminal 2. You can rent a room by the hour for a half or full day, equipped with a bed and a private bathroom, allowing you to work, rest, and refresh before your flight.

Another option is Spa on Air, located in the basement of Terminal 1 (note that it’s outside of Immigration). For a nominal fee, you can enjoy a Korean spa experience featuring pools, steam and sauna rooms, showers, and lounge areas for a nap.

Which is the best airport in Seoul for arrivals and departures?

The best airport for your travels in and out of Seoul really hinges on your destination. If you plan to explore other parts of South Korea like Busan or Jeju Island, or visit nearby countries such as Japan and China, Gimpo International Airport is likely your best bet. It’s closer to downtown, typically has shorter wait times, and offers great convenience.

However, for international flights beyond neighboring countries, you’ll need to use Incheon International Airport, as Gimpo does not accommodate those routes. Not only will your airfare likely be cheaper, but you’ll also benefit from more direct flight options and a greater variety of amenities during your time at Incheon.

How was this guide developed?

As a Korean-American with extended family still residing in South Korea, I’ve spent my life traveling between the US and Seoul. I enjoy sharing my travel insights with friends who are exploring this dynamic country, rich in history, known for its incredible cuisine, K-pop culture, and innovative beauty products.

In this guide, I’ve compiled my insider tips and essential information to help ease your travels, allowing you to focus more on planning your adventures in this stunning country. For more details on airports worldwide, Dinogo offers comprehensive airport guides for various destinations.