Author
H.D. PARK
When you land at Incheon International Airport (ICN), you have a few ways to reach downtown Seoul—taxis, airport limousine buses, and the airport railway known as AREX (Airport Railroad Express).
For most travelers, the train is the fastest, cheapest, and most predictable option because you never have to worry about Seoul’s notorious rush-hour traffic.
However, the biggest mistake first-time visitors make in the airport basement is assuming there is only one train. There are actually two completely different AREX trains running on the same tracks: the Express Train (orange branding) and the All-Stop Train (blue branding).
Here is a breakdown of the differences, which one you should take based on where you are staying, and how to skip the ticket booth lines.
AREX Express vs. All-Stop at a Glance
| Feature | AREX Express Train (Orange) | AREX All-Stop Train (Blue) |
| Travel Time (T1 to Seoul Station) | 43 minutes non-stop | 59 minutes (13 stops) |
| Travel Time (T2 to Seoul Station) | 51 minutes non-stop | 66 minutes (14 stops) |
| Seating | Guaranteed assigned seat (forward-facing) | Subway-style bench (first-come, first-served) |
| Luggage Storage | Dedicated luggage racks & overhead space | No racks; hold bags between your knees |
| Standard Price | 13,000 KRW (~$9.50 USD) | ~4,750 KRW (~$3.50 USD) |
| Payment Method | Separate QR ticket / Reservation only | T-Money card / Transit card |
| Free Onboard Wi-Fi | Yes (Fast & reliable) | Standard public subway network |
1. The AREX Express Train (The Best Option for Most Tourists)
The Express Train runs non-stop directly from Incheon Airport Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 straight to Seoul Station.
Once you board, the doors close and do not open again until you reach the center of the city.
Why it’s worth taking:
- Guaranteed Seats: After a long flight, the last thing you want is to stand for an hour. Every Express ticket comes with a reserved seat assignment.
- Dedicated Luggage Racks: There are large luggage compartments at the end of each car, so you don’t have to wrestle giant suitcases in crowded aisles.
- Speed: At 43 minutes from Terminal 1, nothing beats it into downtown Seoul.
Standard Price vs. Online Discount:
At the airport ticket counter or automated kiosk, a walk-up ticket costs 13,000 KRW. However, you can save money and skip the machine lines by booking your voucher online in advance.
Local Tip: You can grab a discounted AREX Incheon Airport Express Train Ticket on Klook for around $7–$8 USD. You get an instant voucher on your phone, which you can easily redeem for your train seat QR code before heading down to the platform.
2. The AREX All-Stop Train (The Commuter Option)
The All-Stop Train looks and operates exactly like a standard Seoul subway line. It stops at 13 or 14 stations along the way, including Gimpo Airport, Digital Media City (DMC), and Hongik University (Hongdae).
When you should take the All-Stop train:
- You are staying in Hongdae: If your hotel or Airbnb is in Hongdae, taking the All-Stop train directly to Hongik University Station takes about 45 minutes and drops you right in the neighborhood without needing to transfer at Seoul Station.
- You are on a strict budget: The fare is under 5,000 KRW, paid simply by tapping your physical T-Money card or WOWPASS at the regular turnstile.
The downside: Seating is not guaranteed. During morning and evening commuter hours, local workers pack the train starting around Gimpo Airport and DMC, leaving you standing in a crowded car while holding your luggage.
How to Find the Trains at Incheon Airport
Both trains depart from the Transportation Center located in the basement (B1) of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
- After clearing customs and retrieving your bags, walk out into the Arrival Hall and follow the bright signs overhead that say “Airport Railroad” or “Train / 철도”.
- Take the escalators down to the B1 level.
- Look at the entrance gates:
- Orange Gates: AREX Express Train entrance. Scan the QR code on your mobile ticket to enter.
- Blue Gates: All-Stop Train entrance. Tap your T-Money card to enter.
What to Do Once You Reach Seoul Station
Seoul Station is the main transit hub of Korea. When the Express Train terminates at Seoul Station, you will arrive at the deep underground B7 level.
- To take the Subway (Line 1 or Line 4): Follow the internal transfer signs for Subway Line 1 (Dark Blue) or Line 4 (Light Blue) to reach areas like Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, or City Hall.
- To catch the KTX bullet train: Take the main escalators up to the 2nd-floor ground lobby to connect to trains heading to Busan, Daegu, or Gangneung.
- To take a Taxi: Follow the signs to Exit 1 or Exit 15 to find the designated central taxi rank.
Final Recommendation
- If your accommodation is in Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, Insadong, Gangnam, or near Seoul Station, book the AREX Express Train for a comfortable, non-stop trip with guaranteed luggage space.
- If your accommodation is directly in Hongdae (Hongik Univ. Station), save time on transfers and hop straight on the All-Stop Train.
(Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you book your train tickets through the links above, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.)
