Korea Airport Bus (KAL Limousine 6701/6702) vs AREX Train Comparison

AREX: the train option

The Airport Railroad Express (AREX) runs from Incheon Airport into central Seoul, with an express service reaching Seoul Station in well under an hour, and an all-stop version serving more stations along the way for a lower fare. AREX is generally the fastest way into the city center, but it ends at a station -- if your hotel isn't within easy walking distance of an AREX stop or a connecting subway line, you'll need a taxi or another transfer at the end.

KAL Limousine bus: routes 6701 and 6702

KAL Limousine buses run fixed routes from the airport with stops directly outside major hotels and landmarks, so you can often walk straight from the bus to your hotel entrance with no further transfer. Route 6701 generally serves the City Hall / Gwanghwamun corridor, while 6702 covers the Namsan / Dongdaemun corridor -- confirm the exact stop list for your specific hotel before booking, since route details are adjusted periodically.

• Buses load luggage into an under-bus compartment, which is easier for travelers with several large suitcases.
• Journey time is longer than AREX express and more exposed to road traffic, especially during rush hour.
• Buses run less frequently than the train -- check the schedule for your route rather than assuming a short wait.

Which to choose

Choose AREX if speed matters most and your hotel is near a station on the line. Choose a KAL Limousine route if your hotel is directly on that route's stop list, you're carrying substantial luggage, or you'd rather avoid a subway transfer with bags after a long flight. Both accept T-money transit cards in addition to standalone tickets.