✈️ Arriving in South Korea — Airports, Transfers & First Steps

Landing in South Korea can feel smooth and efficient when you know what to expect. From the moment you step off the plane to your first ride into the city, here’s a complete guide for travelers arriving in Seoul, Busan, or Jeju.

 

🛬 Major Airports in South Korea

South Korea’s main international gateways are modern, spotless, and connected by public transport to nearly every region.

• Incheon International Airport (ICN) — Seoul’s main airport (Terminals 1 & 2). 60–70% of all international arrivals.
• Gimpo Airport (GMP) — domestic hub and short-haul flights (Japan, China). Linked to Line 5 and AREX.
• Gimhae Airport (PUS) — Busan’s international airport, 30–40 minutes from the city center by light rail or taxi.
• Jeju Airport (CJU) — Korea’s busiest domestic airport; also has direct flights from Tokyo, Taipei, Hong Kong.

 

 

Official websites:
Incheon Airport |
Gimpo Airport |
Gimhae Airport

 

 

🧾 Immigration & Customs

1) Immigration Process

• Present your passport and K-ETA approval (if applicable).
• If you submitted the e-Arrival Card online, no paper form is needed.
• Biometric check (fingerprints + photo).
• Stamp or electronic entry record given — valid 90 days for most short-term visitors.

🪪 Tip: Some nationalities are exempt from K-ETA until Dec 31, 2025. Check official eligibility at k-eta.go.kr.

 

2) Customs

• Choose the green lane (nothing to declare) or red lane (if declaring goods).
• Duty-free limit: ₩600,000 (~USD 450) per adult traveler.
• Declare electronics or professional equipment when in doubt.

 

3) Baggage Claim

• Baggage claim carousels display airline + flight number clearly in English.
• Lost luggage desks are available near each carousel exit.

 

 

🚆 Transfers from Incheon Airport to Seoul

There are multiple reliable options depending on your time, budget, and destination.

 

AREX (Airport Railroad Express)

• Express train: direct to Seoul Station in 43 minutes, ₩9,500.
• All-stop train: stops at major stations (Hongik Univ., Gimpo, etc.) — ~60 minutes, ₩4,750.
• Accepts T-Money or card purchase via machine (English available).
• Website: arex.or.kr

 

Airport Limousine Buses

• Serve all major hotels and districts (Gangnam, Hongdae, Myeongdong, Jamsil).
• Tickets: ₩15,000–₩17,000 depending on route. Buy at counters or kiosks outside Arrivals 1F.
• Runs every 15–30 minutes, 5 a.m.–11 p.m.

 

Taxis

• Follow signs to the official taxi queue (no touts).
• Standard taxis: ~₩60,000–₩70,000 to central Seoul (plus tolls).
• Deluxe/Black taxis: ~₩90,000–₩100,000; English-speaking drivers available.
• Use apps like K-Ride or Uber Korea for fixed prices and card payments.

 

Private Transfer

• Book through Trazy, Klook, or Etourism Korea for door-to-door options.
• Recommended if arriving late or with heavy luggage.

 

 

🚉 From Gimpo, Gimhae & Jeju

• Gimpo → Seoul: Line 5 or AREX to Hongdae or Seoul Station (25–40 min).
• Gimhae → Busan: Light Rail to Sasang Station (20–25 min), transfer to Subway Line 2.
• Jeju Airport: Airport Limousine Bus lines cover the island’s coastal route; taxis and rental cars available onsite.

 

💳 Money, SIM & Transport Setup After Landing

• SIM/eSIM counters: SKT, KT, LG U+ available at arrival halls; or scan your eSIM QR from Airalo or Klook.
• T-Money card: buy at convenience stores (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven) inside the terminal.
• ATMs: available 24/7 (look for “Global ATM” with Visa/Master logos).
• Currency exchange: official banks inside arrivals — better rates than in your home country.

 

 

🧳 Tips Before Leaving the Airport

• Download Naver Map or Citymapper for directions and transit alerts.
• Check your Wi-Fi or eSIM connection before leaving.
• Keep ₩10,000–₩20,000 cash handy for small purchases.
• Public lockers available at Seoul Station, Hongdae, and major subway stops.

 

🔗 Useful Links & Contacts

• Incheon Airport Info: airport.kr | Call: +82-1577-2600
• Korea Immigration Service: 1345 (in Korea) / +82-2-1345 abroad | immigration.go.kr
• Travel Korea 1330 Hotline: 24h English/Japanese/Chinese support | Dial 1330 (in Korea) or +82-2-1330 abroad
• K-ETA & e-Arrival Card: k-eta.go.kr | e-arrivalcard.go.kr

 

✨ Summary

Arriving in Korea is fast and simple when you prepare: check K-ETA eligibility, fill your e-Arrival Card, buy a T-Money card or eSIM, and take the AREX or Limousine Bus to the city. Within an hour, you’ll be exploring Seoul like a local.