Navigating Incheon Airport Like a Pro

Hey there! If you’re about to land in Seoul and feeling a little unsure about what to do next, don’t worry.

Quick Note: Incheon vs. Gimpo Airport

• Incheon International Airport (ICN): Seoul’s main airport for most international flights.
• Gimpo International Airport (GMP): Handles domestic flights and short international routes, mainly to Japan and China.

Now, let’s get into the airport procedures at Incheon Airport.

Airport Procedures in Short:

0. Before Your Flight

1. On the Airplane

2. Arrival

3. Immigration Check

4. Baggage Claim

5. Customs Declaration

6. Welcome (Money, Simcards and co)

7. Transportation Options

Must-Have Travel Apps for a Smooth Journey

Make your airport experience easier with these essential travel apps:

• Naver Maps: The best navigation app in Korea.
• KakaoTaxi: Book a taxi hassle-free.
• Papago: For translation needs.
• Airports by Travelpayouts: Get real-time info on your flight and airport facilities.
• Klook: Book tours, SIM cards, and more at the airport.

Detailed Arrival 

0. Before Your Flight

• Prohibited Items: Avoid bringing fresh produce, large quantities of cash (declare if over USD 10,000), or items restricted by Korean customs.
• Useful Apps:
  • Naver Maps: Best navigation app in Korea.
  • KakaoTaxi: For booking taxis easily.
  • Papago: Great for translations.

1. On the Airplane

During your flight, the cabin crew will distribute an arrival card and a customs declaration card. If they don’t, you can find these at counters near immigration in the airport.

• Arrival Card: Fill out your personal details, purpose of visit, and accommodation address.
• Customs Declaration Card: Declare any items exceeding duty-free limits.

Pro Tip: Complete these forms before landing to save time.

2. Arrival

Once your flight lands, you’ll deplane and follow the signs for arrivals. These signs are in multiple languages. Just keep an eye out for “Immigration” or “Arrivals.”

Pro Tip: Incheon is a huge airport, so expect a lot of walking until immigration. There are also moving walkways to make it easier.

3. Immigration Check

Next, you’ll come to the immigration area. This is where you’ll join the line and show your documents.

• Documents Needed: Passport, arrival card, visa (if applicable), or alien registration card (for residents).
• What to Expect: The officer may ask about your purpose of visit, length of stay, and accommodation. They’ll also take your fingerprints and a photo.
• Automated Gates: Returning residents or registered visitors can use automated gates, while tourists must go through a staffed counter.

Pro Tip: Have your accommodation address handy for the arrival card.

4. Baggage Claim

After immigration, head down the escalator to baggage claim. Screens will display your flight number and carousel.

• Lost Luggage: Report missing bags at the airline’s baggage service counter near the carousels.
• Free Carts: Available near the carousels for easy transport of your luggage.

Pro Tip: Double-check the luggage tags to ensure you’re grabbing the right bag.

5. Customs Declaration

Once you have your luggage, proceed to customs.

• Green Lane: Use this if you have nothing to declare.
• Red Lane: For items requiring declaration (e.g., expensive electronics, cash over USD 10,000).
• Customs Declaration Card: Sometimes, the card is collected in the customs area or at the exit tunnel. Be prepared to hand it over if requested.

Pro Tip: Check Korea’s customs regulations before flying to avoid surprises.

6. Welcome to Korea

Finally, you’ll exit into the arrivals hall. 

If You’re Hungry: Look for restaurants, cafes, or convenience stores (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven) in the arrivals hall.

Money Exchange: Exchange money at airport counters; rates are usually very fair.                                   - Shinhan, Hana and Woori-Banks: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Weekdays only)                                 Adiitionaly Woori Bank also operates 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Currency exchange daily -please double check, these times can change) Alternatively, for good rates use Money Box in Seoul.

SIM Cards: Available at booths in the arrivals hall. Options include KT, SKT, and Chingu Mobile. Just look out for these Names and lines of people. Prices vary but expect around 30,000-80,000 KRW for a short-term plan. Have your Passport ready when purchasing. 

7. Transportation Options

Airport Railroad Express (AREX):

Cost: 1,500-2,500 KRW.

How to Use: Follow signs for Railway/Subway. Purchase tickets at machines near the station entrance. Hold your card over the scanner to enter and exit.

T-Money Card: For stays under 4 weeks, get a T-Money card (approx. 4,000 KRW). For longer stays, consider a Climate Card for discounts.

Airport Buses (Limousine Buses):

• Cost: 15,000-20,000 KRW.
• How to Use: Purchase tickets at sales counters or machines. Follow signs to the bus boarding area. Comfortable and direct to major locations. When waiting there the bus driver will check your ticket. These buses have a few stops, so watch out. 

Taxis:

• Cost: 60,000-90,000 KRW to central Seoul.
• Types:
  • Regular (orange/white): Standard fares.
  • Black (luxury): Higher fares.
  • International: English-speaking service, more expensive.

-Tip: pay with your credit card.

Rental Cars:

Available at the airport if you plan to drive.

Pro Tip: Download Naver Maps for easier navigation.

I hope this guide makes your arrival in Korea a breeze! If you’re transferring to Gimpo Airport, there’s a convenient AREX connection or airport shuttle buses available. Remember, take it one step at a time, and don’t hesitate to ask airport staff for help – they’re very friendly.

Welcome to Korea, and have an amazing time exploring! 👫