Incheon Airport to Seoul Station by AREX All-Stop Train
I recently took the AREX All-Stop Train from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station.
It is generally one of the most affordable ways to get into Seoul, but the actual experience can feel quite different, especially because most travelers are carrying luggage and space can quickly become limited.
What the AREX All-Stop Train Is Actually Like
The AREX All-Stop Train feels more like a subway than an airport train.
There are no reserved seats, and during busy hours, it can get crowded. Many passengers travel with suitcases, so it is common to see people standing while holding their luggage.
This is quite different from the Express Train, which offers assigned seating and a more comfortable, KTX-style experience.
Read more: AREX Express Train: Fastest Way from Seoul Station to Incheon Airport?
How to Take the AREX All-Stop Train
Taking the All-Stop Train is simple.
You can buy a single ticket from a machine or use a T-money card. The fare is around ₩5,000, making it one of the most affordable options from the airport to Seoul.
If you plan to use public transportation during your trip, it is better to use a T-money card instead of buying single-use tickets. It allows convenient transfers and offers small fare discounts, making it much more practical for most travelers.
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Platform and Boarding Experience
Trains run frequently, and there is no seat reservation.
You wait on the platform and board when the train arrives. During busy hours, standing is common.
Inside the Train: Crowds and Luggage
Some travelers mistakenly think that only the Express Train has luggage racks, but the AREX All-Stop Train also has a designated luggage rack area inside.
In practice, it is often underused, especially during busy hours. Many passengers keep their luggage with them, either placing it in front of their seat or holding it while standing.
If you are traveling with one suitcase, this will likely be your experience as well.
Travel Time and Cost
The journey takes about 60 to 70 minutes.
The cost is around ₩5,000 when using a T-money card.
The Express Train is faster, typically taking 40 to 50 minutes. However, once transfers and walking time are included, the difference can be smaller than expected.
The Important Part Most People Miss
The time difference between the Express and All-Stop Train is based on reaching Seoul Station.
For many travelers, Seoul Station is not the final destination.
If you take the Express Train, you arrive in a separate paid area, so you cannot transfer directly within the same system. You need to exit and re-enter the subway to continue your journey.
For example, going to Myeongdong requires exiting and then taking Line 4.
With the All-Stop Train, transfers are more straightforward. You can transfer within the subway system without exiting, and in some cases, you can transfer earlier along the route.
For example, if you are heading to Hongdae, the All-Stop Train can actually be faster in practice.
Taking the Express Train requires going all the way to Seoul Station and then coming back, while the All-Stop Train stops directly at Hongdae without an extra transfer.
AREX Express Train vs AREX All-stop Train
When You Should Take the AREX All-Stop Train
The All-Stop Train is a good choice if:
- You want to keep transportation costs low
- You are traveling to Hongdae or along the subway line
- You prefer direct transfers within the subway system
(You want to avoid exiting and re-entering the subway at Seoul Station) - You are comfortable with a subway-style ride
When You Might Prefer the Express Train
You may prefer the Express Train if:
- You want a more comfortable and less crowded ride
- You prefer guaranteed seating
- You have heavy luggage
- You received a free Express Train ticket
Conclusion
The AREX All-Stop Train is one of the most affordable ways to travel from Incheon Airport to Seoul.
At the same time, it is not always the most convenient option. If your destination requires additional transfers or longer walking, the overall experience may feel more time-consuming than expected.
Read more: AREX Train Timetable: ICN ↔ Seoul Station
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
It is generally one of the most affordable options, especially when using a T-money card.
It can be, especially during busy hours. Most passengers travel with luggage, so standing while holding a suitcase is common.
Yes, there is a luggage rack area. However, it is often underused or unavailable during busy times, so many travelers keep their luggage with them.
It is faster between the airport and Seoul Station, but once transfers and walking time are included, the difference can be smaller.
It depends on your priorities—cost, comfort, and how many transfers you need.
The All-Stop Train is often the most practical option because it stops directly at Hongdae without requiring an extra transfer.
You do not need one, but it is highly recommended because it allows easier transfers and small fare discounts.
