Welcome / Seoul / Gimpo Airport to Seoul City Center

How to get from Gimpo Airport to Seoul City

April Dwyer

Travel/Copy Writer - 10+ years with private, NGO and startups | Adventure Seeker/World Explorer

January 7, 2025

Gimpo International Airport (GMP) is Seoul’s second major airport, following Incheon Airport which is located to the west of the city. From Gimpo Airport to Seoul the distance is just 16 kilometres and you have four modes of transport to choose from to reach the city center; taxi, bus, train, or a pre-booked private transfer.

Taking a Seoul Airport taxi is the most convenient option and also very affordable, especially when traveling in a group. Under normal traffic conditions, the total journey time will be around 40 minutes.

The cheapest and fastest option is to take the AREX Airport train which runs from Gimpo Airport to Seoul Station in 23 minutes. Another cheap alternative is to take one of the local city buses which take around 60 minutes, making numerous stops across the city.

For comfort and ease, yet still at an affordable price point, one of the limousine bus services is a great choice, especially for solo travelers with luggage. Otherwise, you may wish to take a Gimpo Airport transfer for a private door-to-door ride with an English-speaking driver which takes the same time as a taxi.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Seoul at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi Learn more

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€14.60	40min	24/7
Airport Railway	€2	23min	05:43–00:16
Limousine Bus	€10.60	45min	06:22–23:47
City Bus	€2	55min	04:00–22:50
Welcome Airport Transfer	€52	25min	24/7

How to get from Gimpo Airport to Seoul by taxi

Taking a taxi from Gimpo Airport to Seoul is not only the most convenient transfer option, but it’s also highly affordable. Standard orange taxis which seat 4 passengers are available at Gimpo Airport 24/7 and will get you to the center of Seoul in around 40 minutes, in light traffic. The cost of your trip will be calculated by a taximeter, and no bookings are required.

*International taxis can also be taken from the airport. These cost 20% more than a standard taxi and usually need to be booked in advance.

Gimpo Airport to Seoul taxi fare

Taxis at Gimpo International Airport don’t have a flat rate fee for the journey to Seoul, instead, they use a taximeter to calculate their price. The total cost for your journey will depend on your exact destination in the city, as well as the level of traffic. In any case, it should come to approximately €14.60 (KRW 22,000) for a 4-passenger sedan.

Cost

€14.60

Trip Duration

40 Min.

*Prices may vary unless booked in advance.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis are available 24/7 at Gimpo International Airport

Where can I catch a taxi from?

Each type of Seoul taxi will depart from a separate rank just outside the terminal building. The stands are located in front of Gates 2 and 3 on Level 1 at the International Terminal, and Gates 6 and 8 at the Domestic Terminal.

Convenience

Other than a private transfer, a Seoul Airport taxi is the only way to guarantee a door-to-door service from Gimpo Airport to Seoul. You can keep all of your personal belongings safe, and won’t need to worry about navigating public transport in a foreign language. If you’re keen to make the most of your time in Seoul, and budget isn’t an issue, a taxi is a great choice.

Editor’s Note

Taxis are the most convenient option for those who haven't booked a ride in advance.

Useful Tips

A deluxe or jumbo taxi should cost around €21 (KRW 33,160).

There will be a 20-40% increase in your taxi fee for traveling at night.

Other than a standard taxi, there are three other types of taxis to cater to your needs at Gimpo Airport, but they all come with extra costs. Deluxe taxis are luxury vehicles with high-end service, Jumbo taxis can fit up to 8 people and the International taxis guarantee English-speaking drivers (as well as other languages).

Standard taxis in Seoul can take up to 4 people with one piece of average-sized luggage each.

Make sure your driver has their license on display and that your meter is set to the base fare before starting your ride.

How to get from Gimpo Airport to Seoul by train

For anyone who loves adventure and is familiar with how a train network in a busy city works, then traveling from Gimpo Airport to Seoul by train is a fast and affordable transport option. The AREX Airport train runs frequently throughout the day, taking just 23 minutes to reach Seoul Station without wait times.

How much is the Gimpo Airport train to Seoul?

The cost of the train from Seoul to Gimpo Airport and visa versa is €1 (KRW 1,450) for a one-way ticket. However, this doesn’t include the 500 won deposit that will be added to your ticket price. You can get a full refund of this deposit at your destination station by using the refund deposit machine.

Single-journey tickets can be purchased from ticket machines outside the platform gates or from one of the AREX counters.

Cost

€1

Trip Duration

23 Min.

There's a wait time of up to 10 minutes for the train

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The train is available from 05:43 to 00:16.

Where does the train depart from at Gimpo Airport?

After you collect your luggage, follow the transportation signs and use the escalators to enter the underground station. Once you pay for your tickets and swipe them at the gates, look for the Airport Railway platform.

Convenience

If you’re after a fast transfer option that doesn’t come with the price tag, then taking the Airport train from Gimpo Airport to Seoul is a fantastic option. Not only does the train take just 23 minutes to reach Seoul Station, but it also runs every 10 minutes, so there’s almost always going to be a train available for you when you arrive. That being said, if you’re arriving late at night or in the early hours of the morning, you’ll need to take a taxi or private transfer.

Timetables

Airport railway information

Editor’s Note

The train is a good option for those on a tight budget who don't mind carrying their luggage to and from the train.

Useful Tips

Luggage storage is available on board near the front and back of each carriage.

Be sure to keep an eye on your personal belongings as the Airport train is a public service.

Keep your tickets on hand while traveling as conductors may carry out random checks along the way.

If you need to catch a flight from Incheon Airport, you can board the airport line headed in the opposite direction to the city.

How to get from Gimpo Airport to Seoul by limo bus

A more comfortable way to travel from Gimpo Airport to Seoul is by shuttle. While one of the slower transport options, limousine buses provide shuttle services between the airport and several locations across Seoul so you can choose a route that drops you closest to your hotel. They also have comfortable seating and plenty of space for luggage. The two city routes are the 6003 which terminates at Daerim Station, and the 6014 which terminates at Gwangmyeong La Casa Hotel.

How much is the bus from Gimpo Airport to Seoul?

A one-way ticket from Gimpo International Airport to Seoul on a Limousine bus costs €5.30 (KRW 8,000). You can purchase your ticket from the driver or the transport counter.

Cost

€5.30

Trip Duration

45 Min.

Buses depart every 25 to 45 minutes.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The 6003 bus is available from 06:22 to 23:42 and the 6014 is available from 07:02 to 23:47.

Where do limousine buses depart from?

Buses depart from the first floor of each terminal; from Platform 6 at the International Terminal, and Platform 4 at the Domestic Terminal.

Convenience

Limousine buses aren’t the most convenient way to travel since they are one of the slowest. However, they are very comfortable and if you’re staying near one of the drop-off points, then it may be ideal. That being said, if you’re traveling in a group of two or more people, taking an airport taxi directly to your hotel may be cheaper.

Timetables

Limousine bus timetables

Gimpo Airport – Gwangmyeong La Casa Hotel/Daerim Station

Editor’s Note

If you're traveling on a budget and want a more comfortable seat than the AREX train, a limousine bus is a great option. Although this service takes a little longer than other transfer options, it runs regularly and takes you directly into Seoul city center.

Useful Tips

Buses depart from the Domestic Terminal 3 minutes later than the International Terminal.

Be sure to carry cash to purchase your ticket as the driver doesn't accept card payments.

Buses may run less frequently on weekends.

Getting from Gimpo Airport to Seoul by bus

The final and most affordable public transport option between Gimpo Airport and Seoul is the local city bus. While there are several routes to choose from, the 601 line, which passes through Jongno, Yonsei, and Gwanghwamun, before terminating in Seodaemun, is the most popular choice. Since the bus makes several stops along the way, it is the slowest and least convenient option, taking 55 minutes without wait or transfer times. However, it may still be ideal for those not staying right within the city center.

How much does the city bus cost?

A single-journey ticket for the city bus costs just €1 (KRW 1,500) per person, which is as cheap as the train. You can purchase your ticket using cash, a credit/debit card, or a transportation card such as T-money.

Cost

€1

Trip Duration

55 Min.

Buses depart approximately every 20 minutes.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The 601 departs daily between 04:00 and 22:50.

Where will the city bus depart from?

The 601 departs from Platform 2 or 6 near Gate 6 of the Domestic Terminal and from Platform 4 near Gate 3 on Level 1 of the International Terminal.

Each of the city lines that depart from Gimpo Airport are commuter buses used by locals so they can often be crowded with limited luggage space, especially during rush hour. If you are traveling with baggage and on a budget, a more convenient option would be a limousine bus or train. However, since it makes more stops along the way than other transport options, you may be able to get off nearer to your hotel which would reduce your onward travel time.

Editor’s Note

This option is only recommend if you don't have much luggage, and if the bus can drop you near to your accommodation. Otherwise, the train is much faster and just as affordable.

Useful Tips

It's not possible to book in advance so if the bus is full you will need to wait for the next one.

Speak to a member of staff at the transport counter to determine which route is best for you.

Be prepared to pay with cash if you plan on buying your ticket on board.

How to get from Gimpo Airport to Seoul by private transfer

The most popular way to travel from Gimpo Airport to your Seoul accommodation is to take a private Gimpo Airport transfer. A Gimpo Airport transfer offers ease and comfort in an air-conditioned private vehicle that will drop you right at the curb of your hotel.

You’ll be provided a guaranteed fixed fare rate with 24/7 customer support and an English-speaking driver. Furthermore, upon arrival, you’ll be provided with a meet-and-greet service, just one of the personalized touches of a private transfer.

Your driver will also kindly point out some sites along the way and share their local tips and tricks for how to enjoy this bustling city best.

How much is an airport transfer from Gimpo to Seoul?

One of the advantages of booking a private transfer is receiving an upfront fixed-price quote before booking. This provides complete transparency around pricing, unlike a metered taxi which can be affected by traffic, tolls, and surcharges.

Nevertheless, the price of your Gimpo Airport transfer is still very affordable, with a ride in a stylish sedan costing €52 (KRW 78,800) for 3 passengers, or €78 (KRW 118,215) for an air-conditioned station wagon for 6 people. For those traveling in a larger group, a spacious minivan with room for up to 12 passengers and their luggage will cost just €143 (KRW 216,718).

Booking with Welcome is easy and can be done in less than a minute either online or via the app. Just enter your flight details, fill in a few bits of personal information, and select a time that suits you best.

Cost

€52

Trip Duration

40 Min.

*When booked in advance, a vehicle will be ready for you on arrival.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

*Private transfers can be booked 24/7 from Gimpo International Airport.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

After arriving at Gimpo Airport, you’ll find your driver waiting for you in the Arrivals Hall, holding up a sign with your name on it. Following a friendly introduction, you’ll be shown to your pre-selected private vehicle and given a hand with any luggage so that your transfer to the city can begin.

Convenience

While a private transfer may be a little pricier than other transfer options from Gimpo Airport, it’s still a very affordable choice considering all the additional benefits, and even more so if the costs are being split amongst a group. You won’t need to worry about finding your way around the airport on arrival, the language barrier, or rushing to catch a train or bus with heavy luggage or children. Instead, you can sit back and relax knowing everything has been taken care of for you.

Editor’s Note

Private transfers are the most seamless travel option for a stress-free ride with zero wait time.

Useful Tips

To ensure you recognize your driver on arrival, we'll send you an email the day before including their name, contact number, and a photo.

You driver will receive live updates on any changes to your flight time so that if your flight is delayed or arrives early, your driver will still be there to greet you when you land.

Your private transfer is fully customizable which means requests and additions such as a baby seat or wheelchair-accessible vehicle can all be accommodated.

We suggest selecting a pickup time at least 45 minutes after your flight’s scheduled arrival time to ensure you have enough time to pass through Immigration and collect any luggage.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Seoul. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

Frequently asked questions

How do I get from Gimpo to Seoul?

When making the 16 km journey from Seoul Gimpo Airport to Seoul you have four different transfer options: taxi, private transfer, bus, or train. The Airport train is the fastest and cheapest option, taking 23 minutes, followed by the local bus which takes around one hour to reach the city center.

The most convenient option is to take a taxi which takes 40 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic, or you can opt for a limousine bus which is a comfortable choice if you’re staying at one of the well-known hotels.

Your last option is a private transfer which offers a competitive fixed rate fare in a modern and stylish vehicle direct to your door.

How much is a taxi from Gimpo Airport to Seoul?

Since set rate fares aren’t offered for this journey, your taxi from Gimpo Airport to Seoul will be calculated using a taximeter, based on the distance traveled. While the final price will depend on traffic and your exact location, you can expect to pay around €14.60 (KRW 22,000) for up to 4 passengers.

How long is train from Gimpo Airport to Seoul?

The AREX Airport train is the fastest transport option from Gimpo Airport, taking just 23 minutes to reach Seoul Station, not including wait times.

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