Seoul Station, Seoul - a group of people walking around a building
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Seoul Station Seoul

4.3
·1k reviews·, South Korea

Seoul Station: A vibrant hub for KTX travel, shopping at Lotte Mart, and cultural exploration. Your gateway to Korea.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the rush hour crowds

CrowdMedium
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Seoul Station, Seoul - a group of people walking around a building

Seoul Station Seoul

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the rush hour crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Seoul Station: A vibrant hub for KTX travel, shopping at Lotte Mart, and cultural exploration. Your gateway to Korea.

4.3
(1k reviews)

"More than just a station, it's a destination for shopping, culture, and seamless travel."

Vertical photo
TIP

🗺️ Explore Beyond the Station

Don't just stay inside! Wander one street over from the station for better finds and local vibes .

🚆 Unlimited Transit Pass

Consider the Climate Card for unlimited subway/bus travel in Seoul. Cheaper than T-Money for longer stays .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lotte Mart Seoul Station

Lotte Mart Seoul Station

Adjacent to Seoul Station

A massive supermarket and shopping complex offering everything from Korean snacks to household goods. A must-visit for souvenirs!

Culture Station Seoul 284

Culture Station Seoul 284

Seoul Station

A former train station now a cultural space hosting exhibitions and performances. A blend of history and modern art.

Namdaemun Gate

Namdaemun Gate

Short walk from Seoul Station

One of Seoul's historic gates, offering a glimpse into the city's past. Great for a quick cultural immersion.

Planning Your Visit

Navigate Seoul Like a Local

Seoul Station is a major hub, but don't just stick to the main concourse. Explore the back alleys for hidden gems and local eateries. Consider the Climate Card for unlimited subway and bus travel within Seoul, a great alternative to T-Money for extended stays.TikTok+1

Smart Travel & Luggage

Arriving early or have a long layover? Seoul Station offers luggage storage options, perfect for exploring without your bags.Reddit If you need to change KTX tickets, the station staff are usually accommodating.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Beat the rush hour crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

all the places that are worth going to are on the back alleys and what not - just pop out of a subway and go get lost! you never know what youll find :)
@maxnotbeer
58.8K likes • 592.4K views

🗺️ Explore Beyond the Station

Don't just stay inside! Wander one street over from the station for better finds and local vibes.TikTok

🚆 Unlimited Transit Pass

Consider the Climate Card for unlimited subway/bus travel in Seoul. Cheaper than T-Money for longer stays.TikTok

💛 the perfect getaway destination from Seoul, that feels like stepping into a cozy K-drama episode 🕰️✨ 
Bought train tickets on the spot at Seoul Station (no pre-booking needed!) — just 30 minutes awa...
@byanastasiya
41.5K likes • 207.6K views
Ever just come to Seoul Station to catch a train or transfer? 🚉 Don’t just sit and wait inside—why not explore like I did? ✨ And guess what? I’ve saved 55+ must-visit spots around Seoul Station, excl...
on.k_culture
1.6K likes • 742.2K views

🛍️ Lotte Mart Haul

Allocate ample time for Lotte Mart; it's easy to get lost in the aisles of snacks and goodies.TikTok

🧳 Luggage Storage

Use luggage storage at Seoul Station if you have a long layover or early arrival.Reddit

🇰🇷Diaries: What to do in Seoul Station 💕 ❣️Bricksand @happybricksand ❣️Lotte Outlets @lotteoutlets_official ❣️Culture Station Seoul 284 @culturestationseoul284 ❣️중소기업명품마루 ❣️Focal Point @focal.poin...
karenyuu_
2.4K likes • 73K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🗺️ Explore Beyond the Station

Don't just stay inside! Wander one street over from the station for better finds and local vibes.TikTok

🚆 Unlimited Transit Pass

Consider the Climate Card for unlimited subway/bus travel in Seoul. Cheaper than T-Money for longer stays.TikTok

🛍️ Lotte Mart Haul

Allocate ample time for Lotte Mart; it's easy to get lost in the aisles of snacks and goodies.TikTok

🧳 Luggage Storage

Use luggage storage at Seoul Station if you have a long layover or early arrival.Reddit

🚄 KTX Ticket Flexibility

You can often reschedule KTX tickets at the station if your plans change.Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if exploring nearby areas like Namsan Tower.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Seoul Station is a bustling transportation hub that offers much more than just train services. Visitors praise its convenience for travel, extensive shopping at Lotte Mart, and cultural offerings like Culture Station Seoul 284. However, some find the sheer size and crowds overwhelming.

"Seoul Station also called Seoul Central Station is the main train station in Seoul, having trains going to Busan, Daejon and other big hubs. It is also connected to the Metro.

The Station is connected to a Mall like outlet which has Shops, Stalls and Restaurants. There are two information counters one inside and one outside, the staff inside are very nice and helpful(they know a little of English).

The ticket booking stand is inside.
There is a section to do it with counter staff and a section to do it electronically at a kiosk.

There are elevators and a lift aside from the stairs to get you down to the platform. However for my platform the escalator going down was not operational, fortunately the lift was operational as I had a big and heavy bag.

Furthermore there is an outlet mall next to the station called Lotte Outlets which is a multi-level mall with stores selling clothes, food and a supermarket."

Dr Reviews

"We took a train to Jeonju from Seoul Station. The Station was really really clean and authentic. There were limited space for storage so recommended to find luggage storage elsewhere. The toilet were super clean and many food stalls open early. The train arrived sharp as stated on the ticket, so be prepared."

Katethip Varanyuwatana

"To leave or reach Incheon Airport, the best option is to take the "All Stop Train". It’s the most cost-effective choice😍.
e.g from Seoul Station fare is 1,250 KRW for a 56-minute journey. "Express Train", will saves you few minutes 🙄 (43 minutes in total) but costs 9,500 KRW. Then "Airport Bus 6001"😢 is not competitive, taking approximately 90 minutes for a fare of 17,000 KRW."

Big Dream

What People Like

Convenient transport hub
Lotte Mart shopping
Cultural exhibits

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Very large and complex

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The AREX (Airport Railroad Express) is the most convenient way to get from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station. It's a direct line and takes about 43 minutes for the express train.TikTok You can purchase tickets at the airport or use your T-Money card for the all-stop train. The Seoul Station KTX station is also a major hub for travel to other cities like Busan.TikTok

Seoul Station is a major interchange for several subway lines, including Line 1 and Line 4 of the Seoul Metropolitan Subway. It also connects to the KTX high-speed rail network, making it a central point for both local and inter-city travel.TikTok

Yes, it's quite straightforward. You can take Subway Line 4 directly from Myeongdong Station to Seoul Station. The journey is short, typically around 10-15 minutes, and it's a common route for travelers.Reddit

To get from Seoul Station to Gangnam Station, take Subway Line 4 towards Danggogae and transfer at Chungmuro Station to Line 3 towards Ogeum. Then, transfer again at Express Bus Terminal Station to Line 7 towards Seongnam, and finally transfer at Express Bus Terminal Station to Line 3 towards Ogeum. Alternatively, you can take Line 4 to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park and transfer to Line 2 towards City Hall, then transfer to Line 3 at Chungmuro Station. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes.

Take Subway Line 1 from Seoul Station towards Soyosan and alight at Seoul National University of Education Station. Transfer to Line 2 towards City Hall and alight at Hongik University Station. The journey takes about 20-25 minutes and is a popular route for accessing the vibrant Hongdae area.TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Absolutely! Seoul Station is the primary KTX hub, and you can purchase tickets for destinations like Busan directly at the ticket counters or machines. It's often possible to reschedule tickets here if needed.Reddit

Seoul Station operates 24 hours a day for general access, but specific ticket counters and services have their own operating hours, typically from early morning until late evening. The KTX trains run on a schedule throughout the day and night.

While it's recommended to book KTX tickets in advance, especially during peak travel times or holidays, you can often purchase tickets on the spot at Seoul Station. However, popular routes like Seoul to Busan can sell out, so booking ahead is safer.TikTok

Seoul Station is a public transportation hub, so there are no entrance fees to enter the station. However, you will need to purchase tickets for any train or subway services you plan to use.

T-Money cards can be purchased at convenience stores within Seoul Station and throughout the city. The Climate Card, offering unlimited subway and bus rides, can also be loaded at machines within the station and at various transit points.TikTok

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Seoul Station is more than just a transit point. You can shop at Lotte Mart for souvenirs and snacks,TikTok explore cultural exhibits at Culture Station Seoul 284,Instagram dine at various restaurants, and utilize services like luggage storage.Reddit It's a destination in itself!

Yes, Seoul Station has ample luggage storage lockers available for travelers who need to store their bags temporarily. This is very convenient if you have a long layover or want to explore the city hands-free.Reddit

Seoul Station boasts a wide array of dining options, from quick bites at fast-food chains to sit-down restaurants offering Korean and international cuisine. You'll find plenty of choices to satisfy your hunger before or after your journey.TikTok

Seoul Station is generally accessible, with elevators, escalators, and accessible restrooms available. Information desks can provide assistance, and most platforms are designed to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges.

Seoul Station is large, so pay attention to signage. Utilize the station maps available or download a navigation app like Naver Maps or Kakao Maps. Staff are also available to help if you get lost.Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

The most popular shopping destination is Lotte Mart, a massive supermarket where you can buy Korean snacks, cosmetics, and souvenirs.TikTok There are also various retail stores and duty-free shops within the station complex.

Lotte Mart is the ultimate destination for Korean snacks. You'll find an overwhelming selection of chips, candies, cookies, and traditional treats. It's a great place to stock up before heading home or for gifts.TikTok

Yes, Seoul Station has a wide variety of dining options, from food courts offering diverse Korean dishes to individual restaurants. Exploring the streets just outside the station can also lead to more authentic local eateries.TikTok

Popular souvenirs from Lotte Mart include Korean snacks like honey butter chips, seaweed snacks, and traditional sweets. You can also find K-beauty products, Korean teas, and unique stationery items.

While Korean cuisine is prevalent, Seoul Station also offers some international fast-food chains and restaurants, catering to a diverse range of tastes. You'll likely find options like McDonald's or Subway.

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior of the historic Seoul Station building offers a classic architectural shot. Inside, the bustling atmosphere of the KTX platforms and the vibrant displays at Lotte Mart can make for interesting photos.Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed in public areas of Seoul Station. However, be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography, especially in restricted areas or when photographing individuals without their consent.

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both the grand architecture and the candid moments. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive Lotte Mart or the station's main hall. Don't forget a portable charger for your phone if you're relying on it for photos.TikTok

A short walk from Seoul Station leads to Namdaemun Gate, offering historical architecture. For panoramic city views, consider a trip up Namsan Tower, which is accessible from the vicinity.Reddit

Early mornings or late evenings can offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for more atmospheric shots. During the day, the station is brightly lit, which is good for capturing details, but can be very busy.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Seoul Station can be an exciting starting point for families. Lotte Mart is a hit with kids, offering a vast selection of fun Korean snacks and colorful treats they'll love.TikTok The sheer scale of the station and the arrival/departure of trains can also be fascinating for younger children. Consider utilizing the luggage storage if you have strollers or extra gear, making your exploration more comfortable.Reddit

For a break from the station, the nearby Namdaemun Gate offers a glimpse into history without being too overwhelming for kids. If time permits and energy levels are high, a trip to Namsan Tower provides stunning views and a memorable experience. Remember to get a T-Money card or Climate Card for easy subway and bus access, which is often more convenient than navigating with multiple tickets.

💰 Budget Travelers

Seoul Station offers several budget-friendly options. The Climate Card is a fantastic investment for unlimited subway and bus travel within Seoul, significantly cutting down on daily transportation costs.TikTok For food, explore the food courts within Seoul Station or venture a street over to find more affordable local eateries and street food stalls.TikTok

Instead of expensive taxis, rely on the efficient subway system. If you have a long layover, utilize the luggage storage at Seoul Station to avoid paying for a hotel room just to store your bags.Reddit Shopping at Lotte Mart can also be budget-friendly if you focus on snacks and smaller souvenirs rather than high-end items.

✈️ Day-Trippers & Layover Travelers

Seoul Station is perfectly positioned for day-trippers and those with layovers. The AREX Express train connects directly to Incheon Airport (ICN), making transit seamless.TikTok If you have several hours, you can store your luggage Reddit and explore Lotte Mart for last-minute souvenirs or enjoy a meal. The Culture Station Seoul 284 offers a quick cultural fix. For those with a bit more time, a trip to Myeongdong or Hongdae via subway is easily manageable.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Seoul's Public Transport

Seoul boasts an incredibly efficient public transportation system, and Seoul Station is a central nexus for it all. For getting around the city, the Seoul Metropolitan Subway is your best bet. It's extensive, clean, and easy to navigate with clear signage in Korean and English.

For longer distances within Seoul, consider the Climate Card, which offers unlimited travel on subways and buses for a set period (e.g., 7 days). This can be significantly more cost-effective than individual fares if you plan on using public transport frequently.TikTok If you're not getting the Climate Card, a T-Money card is essential. These rechargeable cards can be purchased at convenience stores and ticket machines and are valid on subways, buses, and even some taxis.TikTok

When traveling between cities, the KTX high-speed train is the way to go. Seoul Station is the main departure point for popular routes like the KTX to Busan.TikTok Booking KTX tickets in advance is recommended, especially for popular times, but you can often reschedule them at the station if needed.Reddit

Shopping Extravaganza at Lotte Mart

A visit to Seoul Station isn't complete without a trip to Lotte Mart Seoul Station. This isn't just a supermarket; it's a retail wonderland where you can find an astonishing variety of Korean products. From an endless aisle of Korean snacks – think honey butter chips, seaweed crisps, and unique candies – to K-beauty products, traditional teas, and quirky stationery, it’s a shopper's paradise.TikTok

Many travelers use Lotte Mart as their primary spot for souvenir shopping. The sheer volume and variety mean you're bound to find something for everyone. It's easy to get overwhelmed, so take your time and explore. Pro tip: utilize the luggage storage lockers available at Seoul Station if you plan on doing some serious shopping and don't want to carry your haul around all day.Reddit

Beyond snacks and gifts, Lotte Mart also offers a wide selection of Korean household goods and fashion items. It's a fantastic place to experience a slice of everyday Korean life and pick up some unique items that you won't find elsewhere. Just be prepared to spend a good few hours browsing!

Exploring Seoul's Cultural Side Near the Station

While Seoul Station is primarily known as a transportation hub, it's also a gateway to cultural experiences. Culture Station Seoul 284, located within the old Seoul Station building, is a testament to this. This beautifully preserved space, once the original station, now serves as a venue for art exhibitions, performances, and cultural events.Instagram It offers a fascinating blend of historical architecture and contemporary artistic expression.

Just a short walk from the station, you can visit Namdaemun Gate, one of Seoul's historic landmarks. This impressive gate provides a tangible link to the city's past and is a great spot for a quick cultural immersion. For those looking for a more expansive view and a bit of a hike, Namsan Tower is also accessible from the Seoul Station area, offering panoramic vistas of the sprawling metropolis.Reddit

For a more local and less touristy experience, as some travelers suggest, venturing just one street over from the main station thoroughfares can reveal hidden gems – small shops, local eateries, and quiet alleyways that offer a more authentic glimpse into Seoul life.TikTok

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