If you’re starting from Hongdae, you’re in a great spot: it’s easy to reach central Seoul fast, but the route details matter—especially on major event days when the “correct station” still leaves you stuck at the wrong exit.
This guide shows the fastest subway approach, the best transfer logic, and the exact exit strategy when you arrive near Gwanghwamun Square.
Official references (save these)
- Route planner (English): Hongik Univ. → Gwanghwamun (timing reference):
NAVITIME Transit (Hongik Univ. → Gwanghwamun) - Gwanghwamun Square official directions (best arrival exits + Haechi passage):
gwanghwamun.seoul.go.kr (Directions) - Seoul Metropolitan Government – official subway fares (as of Jun 28, 2025):
english.seoul.go.kr (Subway fares) - Visit Seoul (official tourism) – Exit 2 distance reference (235m):
english.visitseoul.net
Quick answer: how long does it take from Hongdae?
From Hongik Univ. Station (Hongdae) to Gwanghwamun, typical subway plans often fall in the 15–25 minute range depending on transfer timing and how far you are from the platform in Hongdae.
Timing reference: NAVITIME shows route options and estimated time between Hongik Univ. and Gwanghwamun. Always check the current suggestion right before you depart because platform wait time changes the “fastest” route.
The fastest strategy (don’t obsess over a single “perfect line”)
From Hongdae, there are multiple valid ways into the Gwanghwamun area. The route that wins is usually the one that:
- minimizes total transfer friction (shorter platform changes), and
- delivers you to an arrival station where you can use a reliable exit plan for Gwanghwamun Square.
So instead of memorizing one complicated “best route,” do this:
- Step 1: Use NAVITIME (or your preferred planner) for the fastest current route.
- Step 2: On arrival, use official exit guidance for Gwanghwamun Square (Line 5 Exit 7 / Haechi passage or Line 3 Exit 6).
Arrival matters more than the route: which station should you aim for?
The official Gwanghwamun Square directions highlight two “clean” subway approaches:
- Line 5 – Gwanghwamun Station: walk from Exit 7 or go via passageway to Haechi Lounge.
- Line 3 – Gyeongbokgung Station: walk from Exit 6 toward Government Complex and Gwanghwamun Gate.
Official source: Gwanghwamun Square – Train directions
Practical recommendation:
- Normal day: aim for Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5) because it’s the most direct for the square.
- Major event day: consider aiming for Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3) to avoid the biggest Line 5 crowd funnels.
Exit plan (this is what foreigners actually need)
If you arrive at Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5):
- Primary: Exit 7 (officially recommended)
- Calmer option: use the passageway to Haechi Lounge
- Tourist-friendly reference: Exit 2 (Visit Seoul lists it with a 235m reference)
If you arrive at Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3):
- Use Exit 6 and walk toward Government Complex / Gwanghwamun Gate
Cost: what should you expect to pay?
Seoul Metropolitan Government’s official table lists the adult base subway fare (transportation card) as ₩1,550 as of Jun 28, 2025.
Practical advice: Use a transportation card and tap in/out. It’s simpler, and it avoids the “cash single ticket” hassle.
Event-day survival tips (Hongdae → Gwanghwamun edition)
1) Decide your exit plan before you arrive.
When crowds are heavy, you don’t want to improvise at the exit gate. Pick: Exit 7 vs Exit 2 vs Haechi passage (or Line 3 Exit 6) and commit.
2) Don’t meet friends inside the square.
Meet at a station-level landmark first (Exit 7 top of stairs / Exit 2 outside / Haechi Lounge passage). Then enter together.
3) Screenshot the official directions page.
Data can slow down in dense crowds. Having the official exit guidance saved is genuinely useful.