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How to Get to Seongnam-si

How to Get to Seongnam-si

Seongnam-si Gyeonggi-do, South Korea Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports Serving Seongnam

Incheon International Airport (ICN) is South Korea's main international gateway. Gimpo International Airport (GMP) mainly serves domestic and short-haul international flights.

Airport Facts

  • ICN is 60-90 a short distance from Seongnam, handling most international flights.
  • GMP is closer to Seongnam, good for domestic or nearby international transfers.
  • Direct flights from global hubs to ICN. Find deals on Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Airlines & Price Fluctuations

Major international airlines fly to ICN. Korean Air and Asiana Airlines are national carriers. Domestic flights from GMP use Korean Air, Asiana, and low-cost carriers.

Booking Insights

  • Prices are higher during high seasons (Spring, Autumn, Summer) plus national holidays (Lunar New Year, Chuseok).
  • Seasonal availability and prices fluctuate throughout the year.

Shopping & Dining ICN

Extensive duty-free shops, diverse Korean and international restaurants, cafes, and eatery collections.

Accommodation & Lounges ICN

In-terminal transit hotel and nearby hotels. Numerous airline and priority pass lounges are available.

Services & Culture ICN

Medical center, currency exchange, SIM/Wi-Fi rental. Free traditional Korean cultural performances and workshops.

Transfers from ICN to Seongnam-si

Airport Limousine Bus

  • Often the most practical option, with direct routes to various parts of Seongnam (e.g., Bundang-gu).
  • Travel Time: Approximately 70-100 minutes, traffic dependent.
  • Fare: ₩10,000-₩17,000. Purchase tickets at bus ticket counter or use T-Money.
  • Recommended for straight and comfortable transfer, especially with luggage.

AREX + Subway / Taxi

  • AREX to Seoul Station, then transfer to subway (Suin-Bundang Line). Travel: 90-120 min, Fare: ₩5,000-₩8,000.
  • Taxi: Travel: 60-90 minutes, Fare: ₩70,000-₩100,000+ (standard, tolls extra). Check AirHelp for flight compensation.
  • International taxis (English-speaking) are obtainable but cost more.
  • Cost-effective option via AREX + Subway, but requires transfers.

Transfers from Gimpo Airport GMP

Subway Route

Take AREX from GMP to Digital Media City or Hongik University, then transfer to Seoul Metropolitan Subway for Suin-Bundang Line.

Subway Travel Details

Travel Time: Approximately 60-90 minutes, including transfers. Fare: ₩2,000-₩4,000 (using T-Money card).

Taxi from GMP

Travel Time: Approximately 45-70 minutes, traffic dependent. Fare: ₩40,000-₩60,000+ (standard taxi, tolls extra).

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Seongnam-si does not have a direct KTX or SRT high-speed rail station. Access these services via nearby Seoul stations.

Accessing High-Speed Rail

  • KTX/SRT: Travel by subway to Suseo SRT Station or Seoul Station.
  • From these stations, take high-speed trains to major cities like Busan, Gyeongju, Daejeon.
  • ITX-Saemaeul/Mugunghwa: Catch conventional intercity trains from major Seoul stations accessible by subway.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Long-distance buses offer a comprehensive and often more economical way to travel across South Korea.

Bus Terminal & Companies

  • Seongnam Bus Terminal: Located in Bundang-gu, offers express and intercity services nationwide.
  • Major coach operators like KOBUS and EasyTicket operate routes. Purchase tickets online or at the terminal.
  • Buses are generally more direct and cost-effective than trains if your destination is not a major KTX/SRT hub.

Self-Driving & Car Rental

Minimum age for rental is typically 21 or 23.

Rental Details

  • IDP, passport, credit card needed. No less than one year of driving experience.
  • Major companies: Lotte Rent-a-Car, SK Rent-a-Car, Hertz, Avis. Compare options at DiscoverCars.com.
  • Rental cars often come with GPS (English option). KakaoMap/Naver Map are excellent navigation apps.

Driving Laws & Conditions

South Korea has excellent, well-maintained roads and highways. Drivers can be assertive, especially in urban areas.

Road Rules & Parking

  • Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. Strict drunk driving laws.
  • Toll roads are common; consider a Hi-Pass device for electronic collection.
  • Parking can be challenging and expensive in urban centers like Seongnam.

Important Travel Notes

  • Motorcycle/scooter rentals are not as common for visitors and not recommended due to traffic.
  • Seongnam is not on the coast; sea or river transport is not a direct arrival/departure means.
  • Border crossing information is not applicable to Seongnam.
  • For intercity travel, buses are generally more direct and cost-effective than trains if not a major KTX/SRT hub.
  • If you rent a car, ensure your IDP is valid and local traffic rules are understood.
  • For city exploration, public transport is often simpler than driving.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures & Timing

An International Passenger Service Charge (₩17,000-₩28,000, airport dependent) is typically included in your air ticket. No separate exit fee.

Recommendations for ICN

  • International Flights: Arrive at ICN at least 2.5 to 3 hours before departure.
  • Domestic Flights (from GMP): Arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure.
  • Complete online check-in in advance if available.

Security & VAT Refunds

Allow ample time for check-in, security screening, immigration procedures, and any VAT refund processing. Lines can be long during peak travel times.

Tips for Departure

  • Security & Immigration: Account for potential long lines.
  • VAT Refund: Present passport, receipts, and items (if claiming for checked luggage, do before check-in).
  • Double-check flight status and terminal information before heading to the airport.

Airport Shopping

Extensive duty-free shops with luxury brands, cosmetics, electronics, and souvenirs.

Dining Options

Diverse range of Korean and international restaurants, cafes, and food courts.

Practical Services

Currency exchange, ATMs, SIM card and Wi-Fi egg rental returns, baggage services.

Station Facilities

Bus Terminal Amenities

Seongnam Bus Terminal provides basic amenities for departing travelers.

Available Services

  • Convenience stores for last-minute needs.
  • Small eateries for quick meals or snacks.
  • Comfortable waiting areas.

SRT Station Amenities

Suseo SRT Station, accessible from Seongnam, also offers services for travelers.

Available Services

  • Convenience stores for last-minute needs.
  • Small eateries for quick food or snacks.
  • Comfortable waiting areas.

General Departure Advice

Flight Status

Always double-check your flight status and terminal information.

Traffic Time

Allow extra time for potential traffic on the way to the airport.

Lost/Damaged Items

Report any lost or damaged luggage before leaving the airport.

Travel Insight

For a direct and comfortable transfer from Incheon to Seongnam, the Airport Limousine Bus is often the top choice, especially if you have luggage.