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The Airports of Seoul: Incheon Airport & More
Among the world’s major metropolises, Seoul is no longer an insider tip: the capital of South Korea is one of the most populous and economically powerful cities on the planet, and its cultural influence extends far beyond Asia. Seoul presents itself as a vibrant and dynamic city to both locals and travellers alike. Since more than half of South Korea’s population lives in the metropolitan area, large airports are naturally a necessity. This article provides an overview of Seoul’s airports and the must-see attractions in the South Korean capital.
Contents:
An Overview of Seoul’s Airports
As befits a globally significant metropolis, Seoul is served by multiple airports. The larger of the two is technically not located within the city limits, but nonetheless functions as South Korea’s primary international hub.
Incheon International Airport
The larger and more modern of the two airports is Incheon Airport. The city of Incheon itself, with over three million residents, is the third-largest in the country. And Incheon International Airport is by no means small either: in terms of passenger traffic, it ranks among the top 15 airports worldwide—placing ahead of Paris, Singapore, and Amsterdam—and is in the top 10 globally for cargo traffic.
Despite its size, the airport is relatively young, having only opened in 2001. Its construction was prompted by South Korea’s hosting of the Olympic Games in 1988. The increasing volume of international flights led to planning for a new airport, and construction began in 1992. In this respect, the airport shares a similar history with Rome’s Fiumicino Airport, which was also built in the wake of Olympic preparations.
Architecturally, Incheon Airport also ranks among the world’s leading hubs. Like Chek Lap Kok Airport in Hong Kong, which was built around the same time, Incheon stands on an island reclaimed in part from the sea. Since its initial completion, the airport has gone through several construction phases, adding a second terminal and a fourth runway. A third terminal and a fifth runway are currently planned.
The most convenient link to the city centre, which lies 48 km away, is the Airport Railroad Express. It connects with both the Seoul and Incheon metro systems and offers transfers to Gimpo Airport. Travellers from Seoul can use the central Seoul Station, which is equipped with a City Airport Terminal that allows passengers to check in for their flights before boarding the train.
By the way: In 2006, an Airbus A380 landed at Incheon as part of the aircraft’s certification flight.
Gimpo International Airport
The smaller Gimpo International Airport is still the third-busiest airport in South Korea. Located at the western edge of Seoul, it has a much longer history. It was originally built in 1939 as a base for the Japanese military, which was occupying Korea at the time. In the years that followed, it continued to be used primarily for military purposes and was only fully converted into a civilian airport in the late 1950s.
Since then, Gimpo has undergone numerous renovations and upgrades. Today, it features two runways and two passenger terminals, as well as a cargo terminal, with a third passenger terminal currently in planning. While it primarily handles domestic flights, it also serves several nearby international destinations, including Tokyo.
Sights in Seoul
Since the mid-2010s at the latest, South Korea has experienced a cultural boom. In addition to economic growth, the global success of K-pop, films such as Parasite, and series like Squid Game has generated significant international interest in the country. Seoul has become one of the world’s top travel destinations – and rightly so, as the city offers plenty to discover:
The Five Grand Palaces
Built mainly during the 14th and 15th centuries, the so-called Five Grand Palaces provide a breathtaking insight into historic Asian architecture. Thanks to their close proximity, it’s easy to explore them all in succession.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Located in the heart of the city, this “village” is known for its traditional-style homes. It offers an authentic glimpse into Seoul’s past, and the narrow streets are ideal for a leisurely stroll.
Pop Culture and Nightlife
Those more interested in contemporary Korean culture will also find plenty to enjoy. Districts such as Gangnam – made internationally famous by Psy’s hit song Gangnam Style – are teeming with bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Seoul is a special city with a very unique culture, which is absolutely worth experiencing. No matter, where your next trip leads you to, we wish you a pleasant journey. Make sure you use our bonus programme for exclusive benefits.
