How to Get to Hwaseong-si. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Airports & Airlines

Incheon International Airport ICN

ICN is found roughly 1 to 1.5 hours' drive from Hwaseong-si. It serves as the main international gateway to South Korea and handles the vast majority of international flights.

ICN Highlights

Major hub for international airlines (Korean Air, Asiana, Delta).
Direct flights from numerous international cities.
Check Dollar Flight Club for deals.

Gimpo International Airport GMP

GMP is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours' drive from Hwaseong-si. It mainly handles domestic flights and some short-haul international flights to nearby Asian cities.

GMP Highlights

Mainly domestic and regional international travel.
Hosts Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Jin Air, Jeju Air.
Use Skyscanner for comparing flight pricess.

Peak Season Flights

Higher prices and limited availability during summer, Christmas, New Year, Lunar New Year, and Chuseok. Book well in advance.

Shoulder Season Flights

Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer better value and greater availability, but can still be popular for blossom/foliage views.

Low Season Flights

Winter (December-February, excluding holidays) often has the lowest prices and most availability.

Airport Transfers to Hwaseong-si

From Incheon International Airport ICN

Airport Limousine Bus: Direct courses to Hwaseong-si or nearby cities like Suwon (90-120 min).
AREX to Seoul Station, then transfer to Seoul Subway Line 1 South (multiple transfers).
Taxi: Approximately ₩70,000-₩100,000+.
Rental Car: Desks at the airport.

From Gimpo International Airport GMP

Airport Limousine Bus: Routes to Gyeonggi-do cities, including Hwaseong-si or neighbors.
Subway: Connect to Seoul Metro, then Line 1 South to Hwaseong-si.
Taxi: Approximately ₩60,000-₩90,000+.
Both airports offer duty-free, dining, lounges, currency exchange, SIM cards.

Airport Facilities

Shopping & Dining

Duty-free shops, wide array of restaurants and cafes.

Connectivity

SIM card and portable Wi-Fi rental booths.

Services

Currency exchange, tourist information centers, medical aid.

Land Transportation

Train Services

South Korea's land transportation network is extensive, offering connections to Hwaseong-si via train and bus. Border crossings for tourism are not applicable, as South Korea shares a land border only with North Korea.

Train Connections

Seoul Subway Line 1 (Gyeongbu Line) serves Byeongjeom and Seodongtan stations.
Direct connections to Seoul and other Gyeonggi-do cities.
SRT high-speed rail at Dongtan Station connects to Suseo Station (Seoul) and southern cities.

Long-Distance Buses

Hwaseong-si features several intercity bus terminals, including Hyangnam Intercity Bus Terminal and Balan Intercity Bus Terminal. These terminals routes connect Hwaseong-si to major cities across South Korea.

Bus Companies & Access

Numerous major bus companies operate comfortable and affordable routes.
Wider range of rapid bus services from the vicinity Suwon Bus Terminal.
No specific border crossing for tourism.

Self-Driving & Requirements

Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring Hwaseong-si and the larger Gyeonggi-do region at your own pace.

Car Rental Info

International Driving Permit (IDP) and national driver's license.
Drivers typically 21+ with 1+ year license experience.
Book in advance, especially during peak season. Companies at ICN or nearby Suwon.

Roads & Safety

South Korea boasts an excellent network of well-maintained highways and local roads. GPS networks are highly recommended; local apps like KakaoNavi or Naver Map offer accurate navigation and real-time traffic updates.

Driving Safely

Traffic can be heavy during rush hours/weekends in metropolitan areas.
Roads are generally safe. Strict traffic laws enforced.
Drive defensively; speed limits clearly posted.

Sea/River Arrivals Not Applicable

Sea/river arrivals are not generally applicable for international tourist access to Hwaseong-si.
Hwaseong-si's small ports (e.g., Gungpyeong Port) serve local ferries to islands like Jebudo.
No river transportation options for tourist access.

No international seaport immigration procedures in Hwaseong-si.
Major international ferry/cruise ports are in Incheon and Busan.
These local services are not for international entry.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Timing

No specific exit fees or taxes are typically charged to departing passengers at South Korean airports; these costs are usually an element of your airfare.

Departure Timing

International Flights (ICN/GMP): Show UP 2.5 to 3 hours before departure.
Domestic Flights (GMP): Arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure.
Consider check-in, baggage drop, security, and immigration procedures.

Departure Procedures

Ensure you complete all necessary steps for a smooth departure. Airport facilities are extensive for your convenience.

Checklist

Complete airline check-in (on the internet or at counter).
Drop off any checked baggage.
Proceed through security screening.
Clear immigration (for international flights).

Duty-Free Shopping

ICN and GMP have extensive duty-free options.

Dining & Lounges

Wide range of dining options and comfortable lounges.

Tax Refund & Currency

Tax refund counters and currency exchange services.

Helpful Departure Reminders

Planning Your Airport Travel

Use a navigation app like KakaoMap or Naver Map to estimate your travel time to the airport or station. Account for potential traffic delays, especially during rush hour.

Pre-Departure Steps

Confirm airport transfer method and schedule.
Return any rented Wi-Fi devices or SIM cards.
Convert any leftover local currency.

Last-Minute Checks

A few final checks can prevent last-minute stress. Ensure all your belongings are accounted for and securely packed.

Final Review

Double-check passport and boarding pass.
Unplug all electronics from accommodation.
Inform your accommodation of your departure.

Remember to Enjoy the Journey Home

Relax and Reflect

Make time to enjoy your final moments in Korea.

Capture Memories

Review photos and videos from your trip.

Plan Your Return

Start dreaming of your next Korean adventure.

Travel Safely

Your journey concludes as you depart, but the recollections of Hwaseong-si will linger. We hope you had a fantastic and enriching experience.

How to Get to Hwaseong-si