How to get from Seoul Gimpo Airport to Hongdae
Cities & Metropolitan Areas · South Korea · Urban & Cultural · Gimpo International Airport · Hongdae · Seoul
Seoul Gimpo Airport is actually the “close” airport to downtown Seoul, so getting to Hongdae (Hongik University area) is quick and easy by AREX all-stop train, regular subway, airport limousine bus or taxi, and this guide walks you through each option with times, costs and exact steps so you can choose the right balance of speed, comfort and price.
At A Glance (Seoul Gimpo Airport to Hongdae)
| Mode | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 🚆 AREX All-Stop Train (Gimpo Airport → Hongik Univ Station) | ~13–20 min station to station | Most travelers, fast & cheap |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~₩1,450–₩1,850 one-way with transit card » AREX info | subway overview | ||
| 🚉 Seoul Subway (Line 5/9 + Line 2/AREX) | ~20–35 min with transfers | Travelers connecting beyond Hongdae |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~₩1,450–₩2,150 depending on distance » Seoul Subway info | using transit cards | ||
| 🚌 Airport Limousine Bus (e.g. 6003) | ~30–50 min, traffic-dependent | Seated ride, light transfers |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~₩7,000–₩8,000 one-way » bus overview | airport buses | ||
| 🚖 Taxi / Private Transfer | ~20–40 min door to door | Late arrivals, heavy luggage, groups |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~₩20,000–₩35,000 per taxi/vehicle » private transfer deals | alt. transfers | ||
Which Option or Route Should You Choose?
- Fastest / Most Convenient: Take the AREX all-stop train directly from Gimpo Airport Station to Hongik Univ Station (Hongdae). Minimal walking, frequent departures and no traffic.
- Cheapest: The AREX all-stop train or standard Seoul subway routes are both very cheap, especially with a T-money or Korea Tour Card.
- Most Comfortable with Luggage: Choose the airport limousine bus or a taxi/private transfer so you can sit down with your bags without squeezing onto rush-hour trains.
- Best for Late Arrivals / Traveling in a Group: A prebooked private transfer or regular taxi is ideal if your flight lands late or you’re sharing costs with friends or family.
How to Book and Practical Tips
- Get a transit card: Pick up a T-money or Korea Tour Card at Gimpo Airport convenience stores; it works on AREX, subway, buses and even some taxis. You can also bundle a SIM and transport card via GetYourGuide packages or similar deals on Klook.
- Plan your route before landing: Use the official subway map on Visit Seoul or real-time directions on Naver Map/KakaoMap (more accurate than some global apps) so you know which exits to use at Hongik Univ Station.
- Booking private transfers: If you want door-to-door service, compare fixed-price cars and vans on Klook’s Gimpo→Seoul transfers, Trip.com private transfers or taxi-style rides through platforms like GetTransfer. On arrival, locals mainly use the Kakao T app for ride-hailing.
- Thinking beyond Hongdae: If you’ll continue by train or intercity bus from Seoul, you can research longer-distance routes and passes across Korea on 12Go’s Korea rail section alongside regional buses.
- Luggage and timing: For the 10:00 and 15:00 orangutan feeding sessions… (oops, wrong jungle!). For Hongdae, just aim to leave the airport 60–90 minutes before hotel check-in. If you need to roam bag-free first, stash luggage near Hongdae at options like Radical Storage Yeonnam-dong.
- Where to stay near Hongdae: The area is packed with guesthouses and apartments; browse stays around Hongik Univ Station on Booking.com Seoul and filter by “Mapo-gu / Hongdae” to be within walking distance.
- Bike or scooter once you’re in the city: For exploring wider Seoul on two wheels, compare bike or scooter rentals on BikesBooking or use the city-run public bike scheme (Seoul Bike “Ddareungi”).
🚆 Option #1 — AREX All-Stop Train (Most Popular, Fast & Direct)
Direct Frequent Budget-friendly
- Overview: The AREX all-stop train runs directly from Gimpo International Airport Station to Hongik University Station on the Airport Railroad line. Trains are modern, air-conditioned and integrated with the Seoul Metro network.
- Duration & frequency: Around 13–20 minutes travel time, with trains typically every 5–10 minutes throughout the day.
- How to book (with price): No advance booking required. Buy a single-journey ticket or tap a T-money/Korea Tour Card at the gate; expect about ₩1,450–₩1,850 one-way depending on distance and card type. For more info on the line and timetables see the official Airport Railroad (AREX) site, and general route planning tips on VisitKorea’s transit card guide.
- Pros: Fast, cheap, immune to road traffic, clear English signage and announcements. Drops you right in the middle of Hongdae at Hongik Univ Station.
- Cons: Can be crowded at rush hour; you need to handle your own luggage on escalators and trains.
Step-by-step: AREX All-Stop Train
- After landing at Gimpo (domestic or international), follow the signs for Airport Railroad / AREX / Subway. You’ll head down one or two levels to the train concourse.
- Buy a T-money or Korea Tour Card from convenience stores or vending machines, or use a single-journey ticket from the purple ticket machines near the gates.
- At the gates, make sure you enter for the all-stop AREX (not the Incheon Express). Check platform screens for trains toward Seoul Station / Hongik Univ.
- Board the train and keep your luggage close to the doors or use dedicated luggage areas if available. Listen for the announcement for Hongik University Station (usually the second or third stop).
- At Hongik Univ Station, exit toward Exit 8, 9 or 2 for most Hongdae guesthouses and nightlife streets. Use station maps to orient yourself.
Getting to the main embarking points (Gimpo Airport AREX / Subway Station)
- From International Terminal arrivals: Follow the floor signs marked “Subway / AREX” and take the escalator or elevator down to the B1/B2 level. Ticket machines and gates are just beyond the turnstiles.
- From Domestic Terminal arrivals: Walk through the internal corridor linking to the subway concourse (well signposted in Korean and English) and follow signs to the Airport Railroad platforms.
- Accessibility: Elevators and escalators are available; if you have large suitcases, allow a few extra minutes to reach the platforms.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
🚉 Option #2 — Seoul Subway (Alternative Routes & Transfers)
Low cost Flexible routes May require transfers
- Overview: Gimpo Airport is also on Line 5 and Line 9 of the Seoul Metro. You can ride these lines and transfer to Line 2 or the AREX at nearby stations, which is handy if you’re continuing through Hongdae to other neighborhoods.
- Typical routes: For example, Line 5 → Yeongdeungpo-gu Office then Line 2 → Hongik Univ, or Line 9 → Dangsan then Line 2 → Hongik Univ. These are just alternatives if AREX platforms are very crowded.
- Duration & cost: Around 20–35 minutes including transfer time, with similar fares to AREX (~₩1,450–₩2,150 depending on distance and any extra zones).
- How to pay: Use the same T-money or Korea Tour Card; simply tap in and out and the system calculates the fare automatically. See Seoul’s subway overview on Seoul Metropolitan Government.
- Pros: Extremely frequent, lets you route via different transfer stations if Hongik is not your final stop, and gives you more options during crowding or disruptions.
- Cons: Requires navigating transfers and extra stairs/escalators, which can be tiring with heavy luggage or children.
Step-by-step: Seoul Subway via Line 5/9 + Line 2
- From arrivals, follow signs for the Subway (Line 5 / Line 9) rather than specifically the Airport Railroad if you plan to transfer later.
- Buy or top up your T-money/Korea Tour Card at a convenience store or ticket machine.
- Enter the gates for Line 5 or Line 9, checking platform signs for trains heading toward central Seoul (e.g. Jangmaeul / Macheon on Line 5, or Sports Complex on Line 9).
- Ride to your chosen transfer station (such as Yeongdeungpo-gu Office or Dangsan), then follow signs for Line 2 / Airport Railroad toward Hongik Univ Station.
- After arriving at Hongik Univ Station, choose the closest exit to your accommodation; Exits 8 and 9 generally lead toward the main Hongdae walking streets.
Getting to the main embarking points (Gimpo Airport Subway Lines 5 & 9)
- Within the terminals: Line 5, Line 9 and AREX platforms share underground concourses; follow color-coded signs (purple for Line 5, brown/gold for Line 9, blue for AREX) from the arrivals hall.
- Buying tickets: Ticket machines offer English language; choose your destination station, pay in cash or card, or use a rechargeable transport card for easier transfers.
- Transfer tips: Avoid peak rush hours (around 8–9 am and 6–8 pm) if you have multiple suitcases; trains and transfer corridors can be very crowded.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
🚌 Option #3 — Airport Limousine Bus (Seated & Scenic)
Comfortable seating Minimal walking Traffic-dependent
- Overview: Several airport limousine buses, including routes like 6003, connect Gimpo Airport with university districts and the Hongdae/Sinchon area. These are coach-style buses with large luggage holds under the cabin.
- Duration: Typically 30–50 minutes depending on traffic along the Han River corridor and local stops in Mapo-gu.
- How to book (with price): Usually you just buy a ticket at the airport bus counter or pay with T-money when you board. Expect around ₩7,000–₩8,000 from Gimpo to Hongdae area stops. For an overview of options and fares, check guides such as Gimpo to Seoul transport on Trip.com or airport bus info on Visit Seoul.
- Pros: Comfortable seats, space for big suitcases, fewer stairs than the subway, and you get to see more of the city on the way in.
- Cons: Less frequent than trains, subject to traffic jams, and you’ll need to double-check that your chosen route stops within easy walking distance of your hotel in Hongdae.
Step-by-step: Airport Limousine Bus
- After clearing customs and exiting into the arrivals hall, look for signs marked Airport Bus / Limousine Bus and follow them outside to the bus stop area.
- At the ticket counter or kiosk, ask for a bus that stops near Hongik University / Hongdae. Staff can point you to the correct route and give you the stop name.
- Buy a paper ticket or tap your T-money card when boarding. Keep your ticket handy in case of inspections.
- Place large suitcases in the luggage compartment under the bus, then find your assigned or free seat. Most buses display upcoming stops on overhead screens.
- Get off at the Hongdae-area stop recommended by staff (often signed near Hongik University or Yeonnam-dong), then walk or take a short taxi to your accommodation.
Getting to the main embarking points (Gimpo Airport Bus Stops)
- Arrivals-level curb: Airport buses depart from clearly signed bays at the arrivals level outside each terminal. Look for route numbers and destination boards.
- Tickets & payment: Many travelers buy tickets at manned counters; you can also pay with T-money on board on some routes, but having a ticket in advance avoids confusion.
- Timing tips: Allow extra time in peak hours (rush hour, rainy days) when road traffic can slow significantly between Gimpo and Mapo-gu.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
🚖 Option #4 — Taxi or Private Transfer (Door-to-Door)
Door-to-door Great with luggage Higher cost
- Overview: Licensed taxis queue directly outside Gimpo’s terminals and can take you straight to your hotel or guesthouse in Hongdae. For extra convenience, you can also prebook a private car or van.
- Duration: Around 20–40 minutes depending on traffic. The route typically follows city expressways and local roads into Mapo-gu.
- How to book (with price): Metered taxis from Gimpo to Hongdae usually cost about ₩20,000–₩35,000 including basic tolls. For fixed-price rides and larger groups, compare private transfers on Klook, Trip.com, or GetTransfer.
- Ride-hailing apps: In Seoul, locals primarily use Kakao T for taxis and ride-hailing; you can also find limited Uber options. These are good alternatives if you prefer app-based payment and driver info.
- Pros: No transfers, very straightforward with big luggage, ideal for families, late-night arrivals or travelers unfamiliar with the subway.
- Cons: Most expensive option; traffic jams can slow you down during peak hours, and not all drivers speak fluent English (having your address written in Korean helps).
Step-by-step: Taxi / Private Transfer
- After customs, follow signs to the Taxi stands just outside the arrivals area, or meet your prebooked driver at the designated meeting point shown in your booking (often with a name board).
- Have your Hongdae hotel address ready in Korean (your hotel booking on Booking.com usually shows it), or show the location on your phone map.
- Confirm with the driver that you are going to Hongik University / Hongdae area and whether the fare will be meter-based or fixed (for prebooked transfers it should already be set).
- During the ride, keep passports and valuables with you rather than in the trunk. If using Kakao T or another app, check that the destination pinned in the app is correct.
- On arrival, pay in cash or card (or in-app), collect all luggage and double-check the car before saying goodbye to your driver.
Getting to the main embarking points (Gimpo Airport Taxi Stands)
- Standard vs deluxe taxis: Standard (silver/orange) taxis are cheaper; deluxe or jumbo vans cost more but offer more space. Both queue at marked taxi ranks outside arrivals.
- Late-night arrivals: Taxis and ride-hailing generally run late into the night; if trains and buses are less frequent or finished, this is your go-to option.
- Cash, card & apps: Most taxis accept cards, but carrying some cash (₩10,000–₩50,000) is wise. App-based rides via Kakao T can be linked to a foreign credit card.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
FAQ (Seoul Gimpo Airport to Hongdae)
How long does it take to get from Gimpo Airport to Hongdae?
Most journeys take between 15 and 40 minutes. The AREX all-stop train is usually around 13–20 minutes station-to-station, the subway with transfers is about 20–35 minutes, the airport bus 30–50 minutes depending on traffic, and taxis around 20–40 minutes.
What is the easiest option for first-time visitors?
For most first-time visitors who arrive during the day or early evening, the AREX all-stop train directly from Gimpo Airport Station to Hongik Univ Station is the simplest: clear English signage, frequent departures and an easy walk into Hongdae from the exits.
Is there a direct train from Gimpo Airport to Hongdae?
Yes. The AREX all-stop trains run directly between Gimpo International Airport Station and Hongik University Station, with no transfers required. Just make sure you board the all-stop service heading toward Seoul Station.
Can I use T-money or Korea Tour Card on all these options?
Yes, you can use transit cards like T-money or Korea Tour Card on AREX all-stop trains, Seoul Metro lines and city buses. Some taxis and ride-hailing apps also allow card or in-app payments; it’s still wise to carry a bit of cash for small balances or surcharges.
Which option is best if I’m arriving late at night?
If your flight lands very late, check the last train times; if trains or buses are less frequent or finished, a regular taxi or prebooked private transfer is the most reliable choice for reaching Hongdae safely and comfortably.
Is Hongdae a good base for exploring Seoul?
Yes. Hongdae is one of Seoul’s liveliest neighborhoods, with easy subway access (AREX, Line 2 and Gyeongui–Jungang), lots of cafes, nightlife and budget-to-midrange accommodation. It’s a very popular base for both short city breaks and longer stays.