Incheon International Airport
인천국제공항
Seoul, South Korea · Since 2001
Last updated:
About ICN
Incheon International Airport is the largest airport in South Korea and the primary hub for Korean Air and Asiana Airlines. Opened in 2001 on reclaimed land between two islands in the Yellow Sea, Incheon has consistently been ranked among the world's best airports, winning numerous Skytrax awards for service quality and cleanliness. The airport features two passenger terminals connected by an automated people mover, with Terminal 2 being the newer and more modern facility primarily serving Korean Air and its SkyTeam partners. Incheon is renowned for its exceptional efficiency, cultural experiences, and passenger amenities that make it one of the most pleasant airports in the world.
Why "ICN"?
ICN comes from Incheon, the metropolitan city west of Seoul where the airport is located. The airport was built on reclaimed land between two islands (Yeongjong and Yongyu) in the Yellow Sea and opened in 2001.
Hub For
Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Jeju Air, Jin Air, T'way Air
Airlines Operating
Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Jeju Air, Jin Air, T'way Air, Air Busan, Air Seoul, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, British Airways, Lufthansa, Air France, KLM, Swiss, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines, ANA, China Airlines, EVA Air, Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, Thai Airways, Vietnam Airlines, Philippine Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, Air India, Aeroflot, Finnair, LOT Polish Airlines
Terminals
Terminal 1
The original terminal opened in 2001, Terminal 1 is a massive facility handling most airlines. Renowned for its efficiency, cleanliness, and the Korean Culture Museum and traditional craft experience areas in the transit zone. Features a free Korean culture experience center, ice skating rink (seasonal), and extensive duty-free shopping. Terminal 1 has three concourses connected by underground shuttle trains.
Terminal 1 Concourse
The satellite concourse of Terminal 1, connected by an underground shuttle train (3 minutes). Opened in 2008 to expand capacity. Features additional gates, lounges, duty-free shops, and restaurants. The shuttle train runs every 5 minutes.
Terminal 2
Opened in January 2018, Terminal 2 is one of the most modern airport terminals in the world. Primarily serves Korean Air and SkyTeam alliance partners. Features cutting-edge technology including self-service kiosks, automated immigration, and a massive media art installation in the transit area. The Korean traditional culture experience area offers free hanbok (traditional dress) try-on and K-pop experiences.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at ICN
Showing 8 of 84 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
AREX (Airport Railroad Express) offers two services: Express train to Seoul Station in 43 minutes (KRW 11,000) and All-Stop train in 66 minutes (KRW 4,850). KTX high-speed train connections available from Seoul Station. Limousine buses run to all major Seoul neighborhoods and surrounding cities (KRW 10,000-18,000). Taxis to Seoul cost KRW 65,000-100,000 depending on destination (tolls included in deluxe taxis). Uber and Kakao T available for ride-hailing. Hotel shuttles and intercity buses to destinations throughout Korea. Ferry connections to Chinese cities.
Taxi
₩65,000-80,000 (~$50-62 USD) to Seoul city center
60-90 minutes depending on traffic to city center
Public Transport
₩9,500 (~$7.30 USD) AREX Express
43 minutes to Seoul Station to city center
Parking at ICN
Terminal 1 Short-term Parking
Terminal 2 Short-term Parking
Long-term Parking (Lot 1)
Tower Parking (Premium)
Airport Lounges
Korean Air First Class Lounge (Terminal 2)
The most exclusive lounge at Incheon. A la carte dining with Korean and Western menus, premium champagne and whisky bar, private shower suites, massage chairs, and sleeping rooms. The ginseng chicken soup and Korean BBQ dishes are highlights. Limited entry ensures a peaceful, uncrowded experience.
Korean Air Prestige Class Lounge (Terminal 2)
Korean Air flagship lounge in the new Terminal 2. Features Korean and international buffet with bibimbap station, noodle bar, premium bar with Korean soju and craft beer, shower suites, rest area with recliners, and panoramic tarmac views. The design incorporates elegant Korean traditional motifs.
Asiana Business Lounge (Terminal 1)
Asiana main business class lounge featuring a Korean and Western buffet, noodle station, full bar with Korean beverages, shower facilities, and business center. The bibimbap bar where you can customize your own bowl is a highlight. Comfortable seating with runway views.
Delta Sky Club (Terminal 2)
Delta dedicated lounge in Terminal 2 with Korean and American food options, a full bar, shower facilities, and comfortable seating. The Korean food station offers authentic local dishes. Amex Platinum card provides access. A good alternative to the crowded independent lounges.
Matina Lounge (Terminal 1)
Independent lounge open 24 hours in the transit area. Features Korean and international food options, shower facilities, rest area with recliners, and quiet zones. Popular with overnight transit passengers. The 24-hour operation and affordable walk-in price make it accessible to most travelers.
Sky Hub Lounge (Terminal 1)
A popular independent lounge accessible with most premium credit cards. Korean and international buffet, alcohol bar, shower rooms, and a business area. Can get crowded during peak hours when multiple departures are scheduled. Arrive early for the best seating.
Where to Stay
Transit Hotels (Airside)
Incheon Airport Transit Hotel (Terminal 1)
Airside in the transit area of Terminal 1, 4th floor near gate 43
Compact hotel rooms available airside without clearing immigration. Clean, quiet rooms with beds, private bathrooms, and basic amenities. Available by the hour (minimum 6 hours) or overnight. Perfect for transit passengers. Book at the counter or online. Fills up quickly during peak seasons.
Connected Hotels
Grand Hyatt Incheon
Connected to Terminal 1 via underground walkway and airport railroad station
The most luxurious hotel near Incheon Airport. Features spacious rooms, multiple restaurants (including an excellent Korean restaurant), indoor golf driving range, swimming pool, casino, and full spa. Connected to the airport via underground walkway. Day rooms available for layover passengers.
Nearby Hotels
Nest Hotel Incheon
Free shuttle from terminals (15-minute ride), near Unseo Station
Budget-friendly hotel with modern rooms, free airport shuttle, and proximity to convenience stores and restaurants. Near Unseo Station on the airport railroad for easy access. Coin laundry available. Good option for budget travelers needing an overnight stay.
Best Western Premier Incheon Airport
Free shuttle from both terminals (10-minute ride)
Good value hotel with free 24-hour airport shuttle. Comfortable rooms, on-site restaurant, fitness center, and business center. Korean and Western breakfast included. Popular with travelers on early morning flights. The shuttle runs every 20 minutes.
Capsule Hotels
Capsule Hotel Darakhyu (Terminal 2)
Basement level of Terminal 2 (landside, before immigration)
Modern capsule hotel with Korean-style sleeping pods, shared shower facilities, and a rest lounge. Open 24 hours with check-in by the hour. Clean and well-maintained. Separate male and female areas. A budget-friendly option for early morning departures or late arrivals.
Food & Dining
Noodle Bar (Korean Ramen)
Korean Ramen/Noodles
A beloved institution among Korean travelers - the convenience store ramen bar. Buy instant ramyeon (Korean ramen) from the CU or GS25 store and cook it fresh in hot water machines. Add a rice ball and banana milk for the authentic Korean airport meal experience. Extremely cheap and surprisingly satisfying.
24 hours
Burger King
Fast Food
Familiar fast food chain in both terminals. Korean menu items include the Bulgogi Whopper and Kimchi Fries, which are worth trying for a Korean twist on fast food. Reliable option for picky eaters or those wanting a quick familiar meal.
6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Paris Baguette
Korean Bakery / Cafe
Korea most popular bakery chain serving pastries, cakes, sandwiches, and coffee. Try the red bean bread, cream cheese garlic bread, or seasonal fruit cakes. Fresh baked goods throughout the day. A quick and pleasant breakfast or snack option with multiple convenient locations.
6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Hansot Dosirak
Korean Lunch Box
Popular Korean lunch box (dosirak) chain serving affordable and hearty Korean meal boxes. Rice with various Korean toppings including bulgogi, kimchi fried rice, chicken cutlet, and more. Fast service and excellent value. A favorite among Korean domestic travelers.
6:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Korean Traditional Food Court
Korean Traditional
A food court dedicated to authentic Korean cuisine. Multiple stalls serve bibimbap, bulgogi, japchae, tteokbokki, and Korean fried chicken. The bibimbap counter lets you customize your bowl with fresh ingredients. An excellent last taste of Korea before departure.
7:00 AM - 9:30 PM
Shilla Duty Free Food Hall
Korean / International
Part of the Shilla Duty Free complex in Terminal 2. Features Korean and international dining options in a modern setting. Tteokbokki, gimbap, and Korean-style toast stalls alongside Western options. Convenient for a quick meal while shopping duty-free.
7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Car Rental
Lotte Rent-A-Car
Transportation Center, 1st floor, between Terminal 1 and long-term parking
SK Rent-A-Car
Transportation Center, 1st floor
Hertz Korea
Transportation Center, 1st floor
AJ Rent-A-Car
Transportation Center, 1st floor
What to Do During a Layover
Free City Tour Available!
Incheon Airport offers free transit tours for passengers with layovers of 3+ hours. Tours visit destinations like Incheon Chinatown, Songdo Central Park, and traditional Korean cultural sites. Sign up at the Transit Tour desk on the 1st floor of Terminal 1 or Terminal 2. Valid passport and boarding pass required.
Inside the Airport
Korean Culture Experience Center
Free Korean cultural experience zones in both terminals. Try on hanbok (traditional Korean dress) for free photo opportunities, learn Korean calligraphy, try making Korean crafts, and sample Korean tea. Terminal 2 has a K-pop experience zone with dance rooms and photo booths. A uniquely Korean airport experience.
Korean Traditional Craft Workshop
Free workshops in the transit area where you can create Korean traditional crafts. Learn to make Korean paper art, ceramic painting, or traditional knots. Workshops run on a schedule - check at the Korean Culture Center in Terminal 1, 4th floor. A meaningful souvenir you make yourself.
Ice Skating Rink
A seasonal ice skating rink in Terminal 1 transit area (typically winter months). Includes skate rental. A fun and unique way to spend a layover, especially for families. The rink is small but well-maintained. Check the airport website for seasonal availability.
Duty-Free Shopping Extravaganza
Incheon has some of the best duty-free shopping in Asia. The Shilla, Lotte, and SM Duty Free stores offer Korean cosmetics (Sulwhasoo, Innisfree, Laneige), K-beauty products, Korean snacks, ginseng, and electronics at competitive prices. Korean cosmetics in particular are significantly cheaper here than abroad.
Spa on Air
Korean-style jjimjilbang (sauna/spa) experience inside the airport. Features hot baths, saunas, sleeping areas, and relaxation rooms. Open 24 hours. Includes a basic set of toiletries. A truly Korean wellness experience without leaving the airport. Popular for overnight layover passengers.
CGV 4DX Cinema
Watch the latest movies at the CGV cinema near Terminal 2. The 4DX experience includes motion seats, wind, scents, and water effects. Korean and Hollywood films with English subtitles available. A fun way to pass time during a long layover.
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Free Transit Tour
Incheon Airport offers free guided transit tours for passengers with layovers of 3+ hours. Multiple tour options visit Incheon Chinatown, Songdo Central Park, Wolmido Island, and traditional Korean cultural sites. Sign up at the Transit Tour desk on the 1st floor. Valid passport and boarding pass required. Tours run several times daily.
Visit Incheon Chinatown
Take the AREX All-Stop train to Incheon Station (40 min) to explore Korea only official Chinatown. Colorful gates, jajangmyeon (black bean noodle) restaurants, and the nearby Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village with painted murals. A fun and affordable layover excursion. Combine with the free transit tour if timing works.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Speed Rating: ●●●●●
- Power Outlets: Type C/F (European two-pin), Type A (US-style at some outlets), USB charging stations throughout
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: ₩5,000-10,000 per item per day (~$4-8 USD) at luggage storage in basement level
- Showers: Free in transit area (T1 4F, T2 basement) and airline lounges
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
- Pet Relief Areas
Money & Currency
- Currency: South Korean Won (KRW / ₩)
- Exchange: Multiple bank counters (KEB Hana, Woori, Shinhan) in Arrivals Hall and throughout both terminals. ATMs that accept international cards are widespread. Currency exchange available 24 hours in Terminal 1.
- Hours: 24 hours (Terminal 1 main counter), 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM (other locations)
- Tipping: Tipping is not customary in South Korea. Service charges are included in restaurant bills. Taxi drivers do not expect tips. Tipping at hotels is not expected but appreciated for exceptional service.
Exchange a small amount at the airport and use ATMs for larger sums. Myeongdong money changers in Seoul offer the best rates. T-money cards (transit cards) can be purchased at convenience stores in the airport.
Smoking Areas
Designated smoking rooms available in both terminals, both landside and airside. Terminal 1: near gates 11, 26, 42, 117. Terminal 2: near gates 232, 252, 268. Well-ventilated enclosed rooms with seating.
Lost & Found
- Phone: +82-32-741-3110
Entry Requirements
Visa Information
Citizens of many countries can enter visa-free for short stays. US, UK, EU, Canadian, and Australian citizens get 90 days. Japan gets 90 days. K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) may be required for some nationalities. Transit without visa (TWOV) available for certain nationalities for up to 72 hours.
Insider Tips
Incheon is remarkably efficient - immigration rarely takes more than 20 minutes even at peak times. Take advantage of the free Korean Cultural Museum and craft experiences in the transit area. The Transit Tour Program offers free guided tours of Seoul for layovers of 5+ hours (book at transit desk). Terminal 2 serves Korean Air and SkyTeam; Terminal 1 handles Star Alliance and most other carriers. The transfer shuttle between terminals takes 15-20 minutes. Korean duty-free cosmetics are excellent value - popular brands like Innisfree and Etude House are much cheaper than abroad. Install Kakao T app for seamless taxi booking. The jjimjilbang spa is perfect for overnight layovers.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Korean Cultural Street offers free traditional craft experiences including hanbok wearing, calligraphy, and musical instrument demonstrations. Transit tours (free) take passengers to Seoul attractions for layovers over 5 hours. ICE rink and golf putting course for entertainment. Spa on Air with Korean jjimjilbang-style facilities including sleeping areas, showers, and relaxation zones. CGV cinema showing current movies. Extensive duty-free shopping including Korean cosmetics, K-pop merchandise, and electronics. Korean BBQ restaurants, bibimbap, and international dining options. Numerous lounges including Korean Air and Asiana flagship facilities. Capsule hotels for transit rest.
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