Seoul Airport (ICN) Guide

The AREX express train is the fastest way to reach central Seoul, running non-stop from Terminal 1 to Seoul Station in around 43 minutes. A slower all-stop commuter service is also available. Both offer free Wi-Fi on board. 

Taxis queue outside the arrivals area at both terminals. Fares are metered, with highway tolls added to the total. Official taxi booths inside the arrivals hall accept credit cards and allow pre-payment for added convenience. 

Car rental agencies, including Hertz, Avis and Lotte Rent-a-Car, have desks in the arrivals lobby. Talk to your Travel Expert about organising car hire for your trip or book it yourself online before you leave. 

Numerous airport limousine buses serve major districts of Seoul and surrounding cities, operating from approximately 05:00 to 01:00. Routes cover popular areas including Gangnam, Myeongdong, Hongdae and many more. 

Short-term and long-term parking is available beneath each terminal at Seoul Airport. Long-term parking lots offer lower rates, and the airport’s website has a parking reservation system. 

Terminals 1 and 2 at Seoul Airport are linked by free shuttle buses and an intra-airport light rail service, making it easy to transfer between the two. Allow around 15–20 minutes for the journey between terminals. 

A large number of airlines fly into and out of Seoul Airport, including Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, British Airways, Lufthansa, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Delta, United, Cathay Pacific, Qantas and many more. ICN is one of the best-connected airports in Asia, with direct flights spanning the globe. 

As a general rule, you should aim to arrive at Seoul Airport at least three hours before international flights. During peak travel periods such as holidays and summer, arriving up to four hours early is often recommended. This should give you plenty of time to complete check-in, pass through immigration and reach your gate. Check with the airport, airline or your Travel Expert directly for more information on recommended arrival times. 

There are plenty of transport options available from Seoul Airport, including the AREX express train to Seoul Station, airport limousine buses, metered taxis, car rental and the intra-airport light rail. The AREX express is the fastest option, reaching central Seoul in around 43 minutes. 

Yes, Seoul Airport has dozens of lounges across both terminals, including Korean Air Prestige and Suite Lounges, Asiana Business Lounges, Matina Lounge, Sky Hub Lounge and the Plaza Premium Lounge. Amenities typically include food, drinks, Wi-Fi, shower facilities and comfortable seating. Access may be possible depending on your ticket class, frequent flyer membership, lounge membership or by purchasing a day pass. Check with the airline directly or talk to your Travel Expert for more information. 

Seoul Airport is famously comfortable for overnight stays and layovers. There are rest zones with reclining chairs in both terminals, as well as shower rooms and transit hotels available within the airport. Several lounges also offer sleeping facilities. ICN is consistently voted one of the best airports in the world for sleeping – which is quite the endorsement. 

You may be able to earn loyalty points or rewards on eligible flights to or from Seoul Airport booked with us. When booking online, you’ll see a place to add your loyalty program or frequent flyer membership details if this is available, or you can ask your Travel Expert for help when booking in-store. If the booking meets your program’s requirements, you’ll earn points! For more information, check with your specific loyalty program and see our Booking Terms and Conditions. Keen for even more travel perks? Subscribe to our email list for birthday surprises, competition entries, exclusive deals and VIP pre-sale access to the hottest holiday savings around. 

Check-in times and baggage rules for flights departing from Seoul Airport will vary depending on your ticket, so make sure you confirm with your airline in advance. Remember, it’s often possible to check in online or via your airline’s app, which can help save time at the airport. For more information or help finding your check-in times and baggage limits, talk to your Travel Expert. 

Seoul Airport has two terminals. Terminal 1 is used by the majority of international airlines, while Terminal 2 primarily serves Korean Air, its SkyTeam partners and several other carriers. Always check your airline’s designated terminal before heading to the airport, and remember there are free shuttle buses and a light rail service connecting the two. 

Yes, Seoul Airport offers both short-term and long-term parking beneath each terminal. Long-term lots offer lower rates for extended stays. You can reserve a parking space in advance through the airport’s website. 

Seoul Airport offers excellent family facilities including nursing and baby care rooms, children’s play areas and an observation deck in Terminal 1. The airport is also known for its free cultural experience zones, including traditional Korean craft workshops and performances – a great way to keep the whole family entertained during a layover. 

Keen to do a little retail therapy at Seoul Airport? You’re in for a treat. ICN is renowned for its incredible duty-free shopping, with a vast selection of Korean beauty brands, designer labels, electronics, food and souvenirs across both terminals. Check the airport’s website for an up-to-date directory of stores and their opening information. 

While last-minute sale fares to and from Seoul Airport may become available, you’ll generally find it pays to plan ahead, especially if you’re booking international flights. As a rough guide, we recommend booking domestic flights three to six months in advance and international flights six to nine months before you plan to fly. When it comes to balancing flexible travel dates with the biggest savings, this should give you the best of both worlds!