
Seoul Station Guide: KTX, AREX, Subway, GTX-A and Travel Tips

By TaraKai
October 20, 2026

Seoul Station is one of the main transport hubs in Seoul, connecting high-speed KTX trains, local rail services, Seoul Subway, AREX airport trains and GTX-A. Whether you are heading to Busan, travelling to Incheon Airport or exploring central Seoul, knowing the station layout can make transfers much easier.

Understanding the Seoul Station Map

Seoul Station is more than one train hall. Different train services use different parts and levels of the station, so check the signs carefully before heading to your platform.
KTX and Korail Area
The main Seoul Station building is where you can board KTX and other Korail trains.
Popular KTX routes from Seoul Station connect Seoul with major destinations including:
- Busan
- Daejeon
- Daegu
- Gyeongju
- Pohang
- Other cities served by Korail routes
Seoul Station is one of Korea's main railway hubs and the starting point of the Gyeongbu Line towards Busan.
🚆 Pro Tip: Reserve popular Korea train tickets early if you are travelling on weekends, Korean public holidays or during major festivals.
Seoul Subway Line 1
Line 1 connects Seoul Station with areas such as City Hall, Jongno, Dongdaemun and other parts of the Seoul metropolitan area.
Follow the dark blue Line 1 signs when transferring from the railway station.
Seoul Subway Line 4
Line 4 is useful for reaching popular areas including Myeongdong and Dongdaemun.
It is one of the easiest subway options if your hotel is around Myeongdong or central Seoul.
Gyeongui-Jungang Line
The Gyeongui-Jungang Line also serves Seoul Station, although its platforms are separate from some of the main subway areas.
Check the train destination carefully because not every Gyeongui-Jungang Line service follows the same operating pattern.
AREX Airport Railroad
AREX provides a direct rail connection between Seoul Station and Incheon International Airport.
There are two main types of AREX service:
AREX Service | Best For |
|---|---|
Express Train | Faster airport transfer with no intermediate stops between Seoul Station and Incheon Airport |
All-Stop Train | Cheaper travel and access to intermediate stations such as Hongik University and Gimpo Airport |
The AREX Express takes about 43 minutes between Incheon Airport Terminal 1 and Seoul Station and around 51 minutes from Terminal 2.
✈️ Airport Tip: Leave extra time when transferring between AREX and KTX because the airport railway platforms are below the main station area.
GTX-A
GTX-A is now another rail option at Seoul Station. The northern section connects Seoul Station with the northwestern Seoul metropolitan area, including the direction of Unjeong Jungang.
The Unjeong Jungang to Seoul Station section opened in December 2024. Later GTX-A sections are being developed separately, so always check the latest operating route before travelling.
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Seoul Station Exit Guide

Seoul Station has several exit systems because the KTX, subway and AREX areas are connected but managed separately.
These are some of the most useful exits for travelers:
Exit | Useful For |
|---|---|
Exit 1 | Main Seoul Station building, KTX, Lotte Mart and Lotte Outlet |
Exit 2 | Culture Station Seoul 284 |
Exits 5–6 | Seoullo 7017 |
Exits 7–8 | Namdaemun Market direction |
Exit 9 / 9-1 area | Seoul Square and bus connections |
Exit 15 area | AREX side of Seoul Station |
Exit numbers can belong to different parts of the station complex, so follow the current station signs rather than relying only on an exit number.

How to Get to Seoul Station
From Incheon International Airport
The easiest rail option is AREX.
AREX Express Train
Take the non-stop AREX Express Train directly to Seoul Station.
- Terminal 1 to Seoul Station: about 43 minutes
- Terminal 2 to Seoul Station: about 51 minutes
- No transfer required
The Express Train is useful if Seoul Station is your final destination or if you are connecting to a KTX train.
AREX All-Stop Train
The All-Stop Train also travels to Seoul Station but stops at intermediate stations.
It can be more convenient if you are coming from:
- Gimpo International Airport
- Hongik University
- Digital Media City
- Gongdeok
From Myeongdong
Take Seoul Subway Line 4 directly to Seoul Station.
This is one of the easiest connections for travelers staying around Myeongdong.
From Hongik University
Take the AREX All-Stop Train directly from Hongik University Station to Seoul Station.
From Other Korean Cities
KTX and other Korail services connect Seoul Station with many cities across South Korea.
Popular connections include Busan, Daejeon, Daegu and several other major destinations.
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Hotel in SeoulHow to Transfer at Seoul Station
Subway to KTX
After getting off Line 1 or Line 4, follow signs marked:
KTX / Korail / Seoul Station
Allow at least 10 to 15 minutes if you are unfamiliar with the station. Give yourself more time if you need to collect tickets or have large luggage.
KTX to AREX
Follow signs marked:
Airport Railroad / AREX / 공항철도
The AREX platforms are on lower levels of the station complex, so allow extra walking time.
AREX to Subway
After leaving the AREX area, follow the signs for:
- Line 1
- Line 4
Do not follow only the Seoul Station name because several rail services use the same station complex.
GTX-A Transfers
Follow the GTX-A signs inside the station. Because GTX-A uses its own station area, leave additional transfer time when connecting from KTX, AREX or the subway.
🚆 Transfer Tip: If you have a reserved KTX train, arriving at Seoul Station around 20 to 30 minutes before departure gives you more time to find your platform, buy food and manage your luggage.
Seoul Station City Airport Terminal

One of Seoul Station's most useful services for international travelers is the City Airport Terminal.
Eligible AREX Express Train passengers travelling from Incheon International Airport may be able to complete selected airport procedures before taking the train to the airport, including:
- Airline check-in
- Checked baggage drop
- Departure immigration procedures
AREX completed renovation work on the Seoul Station City Airport Terminal in 2026 to improve the check-in and waiting areas.
Only participating airlines and eligible flights can use the service. Airline participation, check-in deadlines and baggage conditions can change, so check the latest AREX information before your flight.
✈️ Airport Tip: Do not assume your airline is eligible for city check-in. Confirm your flight and airline before arriving at Seoul Station.
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How to Buy Tickets at Seoul Station
KTX Tickets
KTX requires a separate train ticket.
You can:
- Reserve online before travelling
- Buy from a station ticket counter
- Use station ticket machines
- Book through Trip.com Korea trains
Booking early is recommended for popular departure times.
Seoul Subway
For normal subway trips, you can use:
- Tmoney card
- Compatible transportation cards
- Single-journey tickets
Using a rechargeable transportation card is usually easier if you plan to take several subway or bus trips.
AREX
The AREX Express Train uses its own ticket system, while normal transportation cards can be used for the All-Stop Train.
Check the latest fare before travelling because ticket prices and promotions can change.
Luggage Storage at Seoul Station

Luggage storage is available at Seoul Station.
Seoul's official T-Luggage service has a location on B1 near Exit 1 at Seoul Station. Storage prices depend on luggage size, day and storage time.
You can also find lockers and private luggage storage services around the station.
If you are travelling during a busy weekend or holiday, store your bags early because large luggage spaces can fill quickly.
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Things to Do Near Seoul Station
Culture Station Seoul 284
The former Seoul Station building has been preserved as Culture Station Seoul 284, an arts and cultural space with exhibitions and events.
It is located beside the modern Seoul Station complex.
Seoullo 7017
Seoullo 7017 is an elevated pedestrian walkway close to Seoul Station.
It is a convenient place for a short walk before or after your train and connects the station area with nearby neighborhoods.
Namdaemun Market
Namdaemun Market is within walking distance of Seoul Station.
It is a good place to look for Korean food, snacks, clothing and souvenirs if you have extra time before your train.
Shopping at Seoul Station
The station area also has shopping and dining options, making it easy to pick up food or last-minute items before boarding a train.
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Hotels Near Seoul Station
Staying near Seoul Station can be convenient if you have an early KTX train, an airport transfer or several day trips planned.
The area offers easy access to:
- KTX trains
- AREX Airport Railroad
- Subway Lines 1 and 4
- Myeongdong
- Namdaemun Market
- Central Seoul
Recommended Hotels Near Seoul Station
Four Points by Sheraton Josun, Seoul Station
A convenient option with an underground connection to Seoul Station, making it easy to access KTX, AREX and subway services.
Hotel Manu Seoul
A comfortable option near Seoul Station and Namdaemun Market, convenient for both transport and sightseeing.
R Guesthouse Seoul Station
A budget-friendly option near Seoul Station, with Seoullo 7017 and Namdaemun Market also nearby.
💡 Pro Tip: Stay near Seoul Station if you plan to use KTX for day trips or AREX for easy airport transfers.
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Seoul Station Travel Tips
- Check your train operator. KTX, subway, AREX and GTX-A use different platforms and ticket systems.
- Arrive early for KTX. Give yourself extra time to find the correct platform.
- Save your train number. KTX departure boards show the train number, destination, time and platform.
- Use a Tmoney card. It is convenient for Seoul subway and bus trips.
- Follow the colored signs. They are usually easier to follow than trying to remember platform numbers.
- Allow more time with luggage. Some transfers involve long corridors, elevators and several station levels.
- Check your exit before leaving. Choosing the wrong exit can add unnecessary walking.
- Book popular KTX trains early. Weekend and holiday services can sell out.
- Check AREX before your flight. Airport train schedules and City Airport Terminal eligibility can change.
- Use the information counter if needed. Seoul Station is large, so ask station staff if you cannot find your platform.

FAQs About Seoul Station
-
Is Seoul Station the main KTX station in Seoul?
Yes. Seoul Station is one of Seoul's main KTX stations and is an important starting point for trains heading towards Busan and other cities. -
Does Seoul Station connect directly to Incheon Airport?
Yes. AREX connects Seoul Station directly with Incheon International Airport. The Express Train operates non-stop between Seoul Station and the airport. -
Which subway lines stop at Seoul Station?
Seoul Subway Lines 1 and 4 serve Seoul Station. The station is also connected to the Gyeongui-Jungang Line, AREX and GTX-A. -
Can I take KTX from Seoul Station to Busan?
Yes. Seoul Station is the starting point of the Gyeongbu Line, which connects Seoul with major stations including Daejeon, Daegu and Busan. -
Can I check in for my flight at Seoul Station?
Selected passengers using the AREX Express Train may be able to use the Seoul Station City Airport Terminal for airline check-in, baggage drop and departure procedures. Eligibility depends on the airline and flight.
Related products
Seoul Station
- 1. Understanding the Seoul Station Map
- 2. Seoul Station Exit Guide
- 3. How to Get to Seoul Station
- 4. How to Transfer at Seoul Station
- 5. Seoul Station City Airport Terminal
- 6. How to Buy Tickets at Seoul Station
- 7. Luggage Storage at Seoul Station
- 8. Things to Do Near Seoul Station
- 9. Hotels Near Seoul Station
- 10. Seoul Station Travel Tips
- 11. FAQs About Seoul Station
I enjoy exploring new destinations, testing travel products, and sharing useful travel tips that help Filipino travelers enjoy smoother and more comfortable trips.
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