Travel Smart: Utilizing Seoul Station City Airport Terminal for a Stress-Free Journey

Long lines, complicated procedures, and heavy luggage can drain your energy before an international flight even begins. The Seoul Station City Airport Terminal offers a smart alternative by letting travelers complete check-in, baggage drop-off, and departure screening in the city.
This guide explains how the Seoul Station City Airport Terminal works, including operating hours, cut-off times, and how to use the Airport Railroad Express and Regular trains for a faster and more comfortable start to your trip.
What Is the Seoul Station City Airport Terminal
The Seoul Station City Airport Terminal allows passengers to complete airline check-in, baggage drop-off, and departure screening at Seoul Station instead of Incheon Airport.
It is located at Airport Railroad Seoul Station on Basement Level 2 and is directly linked to the Airport Railroad Express Train.
Services and Who Can Use Them
Available services include airline check-in, baggage check-in, and early departure screening.
This service is available to passengers holding Airport Railroad Express Train tickets. Eligible airlines may vary, so it is important to check participating carriers in advance.
Operating Hours and Cut-Off Times
Check-in and baggage drop-off are available from 05:20 to 19:00.
The cut-off time is three hours before departure for flights from Terminal 1 and three hours and twenty minutes before departure for Terminal 2.
Departure screening operates from 05:30 to 19:00, allowing travelers to pass immigration before heading to the airport.
Why Using the City Airport Terminal Makes Sense
Early check-in lets you choose a comfortable time on the day of departure instead of rushing at the airport.
After completing departure screening at Seoul Station, you can use a dedicated departure lane at Incheon Airport, making the final airport process much faster.
Airport Railroad Train Types and Travel Time
The Airport Railroad operates two train types: Express and Regular.
The Express Train runs from Seoul Station to Incheon Airport Terminal 1 in 43 minutes and to Terminal 2 in 51 minutes. It offers reserved seating and a more comfortable ride.
The Regular Train takes about 59 minutes to Terminal 1 and 66 minutes to Terminal 2, with possible minor delays depending on stops.
Ticket Purchase Methods and Costs
Express Train tickets can be purchased online or on-site at the Express Train Customer Information Centers located at Seoul Station and Incheon Airport Terminals 1 and 2.
The Express Train fare is 13,000 KRW for adults and 9,500 KRW for children, with normal fares varying slightly by terminal.
Regular Train tickets can be purchased using single-journey tickets or prepaid transportation cards at ticket vending machines and convenience stores.
Step-by-Step City Airport Terminal Usage Procedure
First, purchase an Airport Railroad Express Train ticket.
Next, proceed to airline check-in and baggage drop-off on Basement Level 2, followed by departure screening at the adjacent immigration center.
After screening, enter the Express Train gate, take the elevator down to the platform on Basement Level 7, and board the train to Incheon Airport.
Final Thoughts on Starting Your Trip Smart
Using the Seoul Station City Airport Terminal transforms the beginning of an overseas trip into a calm and efficient experience.
By completing major airport procedures in the city and traveling via the fast Airport Railroad, you can arrive at Incheon Airport relaxed and ready for your journey.
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