Dongdaemun is one of Seoul’s most famous shopping districts, especially popular for fabric markets, fashion wholesalers, and plastic surgery clinics. If you’re flying into Incheon International Airport (ICN) and plan to stay in or visit Dongdaemun, you have several options for getting there — by subway, airport bus, or taxi. Each route varies in terms of cost, time, and convenience.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get from Incheon Airport to Dongdaemun step-by-step, comparing different transportation options so you can choose what fits your travel style best. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Seoul, this post has you covered.
Option 1: Subway (AREX + Line 1) – Affordable and Reliable
Taking the subway is the most cost-effective option and works well if you’re traveling light.
Step-by-step directions:
At Incheon Airport (Terminal 1 or 2), go to the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) station. It’s well-signposted in English.
Purchase a T-money card or single journey ticket from the machines.
Take the AREX All-Stop Train (NOT the Express) to Seoul Station.
Time: Approx. 60 minutes
Fare: Around 4,150 KRW
At Seoul Station, transfer to Subway Line 1 (Dark Blue Line).
Ride Line 1 for 4 stops and get off at Dongdaemun Station (동대문).
Time: Approx. 10–15 minutes
Take Exit 6 or 7 depending on your final destination.
Total Time: 75–90 minutes
Total Fare: Around 4,750 KRW
Pros: Cheap, efficient, no traffic
Cons: May be tiring if you have large luggage or arrive late at night
Option 2: Airport Limousine Bus – Comfortable With No Transfers
The airport limousine bus offers direct service to the Dongdaemun area and is especially convenient if you want to avoid stairs or transfers.
Step-by-step directions:
After exiting customs, go to the Transportation Center and look for the Limousine Bus counters.
Purchase a ticket for Bus 6002, which stops at multiple points in Dongdaemun.
Fare: 17,000 KRW
Duration: 70–90 minutes depending on traffic
Board at Bus Stop 5B or 12A (Terminal 1) / Bus Stop 28 (Terminal 2).
Get off at one of the following Dongdaemun stops:
Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station
Heunginmun Gate
JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square
Total Time: 70–90 minutes
Total Fare: 17,000 KRW
Pros: Direct, comfortable seats, room for luggage
Cons: Slower during peak traffic hours
Tip: Keep your luggage tag from the driver — you’ll need it to retrieve your bags.
Option 3: Taxi – Fastest But Most Expensive
If you have large bags, arrive late at night, or are traveling in a group, a taxi may be the best option.
Step-by-step directions:
Go to the Taxi Queue outside the arrivals gate.
Choose between:
Regular taxi (Silver or orange): Approx. 70,000–90,000 KRW
Deluxe taxi (Black with yellow stripe): Approx. 90,000–110,000 KRW
International taxi (English-speaking drivers): Book in advance here
Show your hotel name or address written in Korean.
Ride directly to your hotel or clinic in Dongdaemun.
Total Time: 60–75 minutes
Total Fare: Varies by traffic and tolls
Pros: Door-to-door service, no transfers, good for groups
Cons: High cost, may hit traffic, not ideal during rush hour
Tip: Always ask for a printed receipt and avoid unlicensed taxis inside the terminal.
Option 4: Private Airport Transfer – Easiest for First-Timers
If you’re booking through a plastic surgery clinic, travel agency, or hotel concierge, they might offer private airport transfer services. Some platforms like Klook or Trazy also offer bookable car services with English-speaking drivers.
Features:
Pickup with a sign at arrivals
Fixed price regardless of traffic
Can be shared with other travelers
Drop-off directly at your hotel or clinic
Estimated Cost:
Sedan (1–3 passengers): 90,000–120,000 KRW
Van (4+ passengers): 120,000–150,000 KRW
Time: 60–80 minutes
Booking Platforms:
Which Option Is Best for You?
| Mode | Best For | Price (KRW) | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subway (AREX + Line 1) | Budget travelers with light luggage | ~4,750 | 75–90 mins |
| Limousine Bus (6002) | Solo travelers or those avoiding transfers | 17,000 | 70–90 mins |
| Taxi | Groups or travelers arriving late | 70,000–110,000 | 60–75 mins |
| Private Transfer | First-time visitors or VIP experience | 90,000–150,000 | 60–80 mins |
Tips for a Smooth Arrival
Buy a T-money Card at any convenience store inside the airport for subway and bus rides.
Exchange some Korean Won at the airport for taxis or local shops.
Use Naver Map or KakaoMap for navigation — Google Maps is limited in Korea.
Download Papago (by Naver) for Korean-English translation in real time.
Avoid rush hour (7–9am and 5–7pm) if taking a taxi or bus into Seoul.
Dongdaemun Is Closer Than You Think
Incheon Airport may be located outside of Seoul, but getting to Dongdaemun is surprisingly straightforward once you know your options. Whether you’re headed there for fabric shopping, plastic surgery, or just a cultural experience, you can find a travel method that fits your budget and comfort level.
With modern transport systems, English-friendly services, and clear signage, even first-time visitors can arrive smoothly. Prepare ahead, download the right apps, and enjoy your journey into one of Seoul’s most vibrant districts.