Whether you’re visiting South Korea for business or pleasure, chances are your first introduction to the country will be at Gimpo International Airport just outside of Seoul. After a long flight, the last thing you want is the hassle and stress of unreliable ground transportation. That’s why it’s important to be prepared and know your options for getting an affordable yet safe and comfortable taxi from Gimpo Airport to your final destination.
The Official Airport Taxi Services at Gimpo
The most convenient option for visitors is to use one of the official airport taxi services located right outside the arrivals hall at Gimpo. Here you’ll find designated ranks for regular taxis as well as deluxe van/premium cab services like Uni cab and International.
While these official airport cabs are more expensive than typical street taxis in Seoul, you get benefits like:
Able to pay by credit card
Drivers have completed english training
Clean, modern vehicles
Regulated fares with no negotiating required
Ability to pre-book online in advance
The taxi ranks have airport staff on hand to assist with any issues as well as pamphlets explaining the fare structure which is based on a combination of base fee plus distance travelled. For most trips into Seoul’s city centre hotels, expect the metered fare to be around 60,000-80,000 won ($50-65 USD). Premium cabs charge a bit more.
Worried about overcharging? Don’t be – the airport taxis are all required to run the meter and fares are closely regulated by authorities. Tipping is not expected.
Using a Regular Street Taxi in Gimpo
If you’re on a very tight budget, you can attempt to save a bit by skipping the official airport ranks and instead taking a regular call taxi from the public pick-up area on the arrivals floor. These cabs have lower base rates on the meter compared to the airport companies.
However, you need to be prepared to clearly communicate your destination to the driver and may face language barriers. Many regular street taxis also only accept cash in Korean won. Overall, this option is less convenient for most visitors but can shave 10,000-20,000 won off the fare.
Female-Friendly and Women-Only Taxi Options
One complaint some female travelers to Korea have is feeling uncomfortable due to cultural barriers or harassment from some male taxi drivers even at the official airport ranks. Thankfully, there are a couple female-friendly options:
Look for the pink “Women-Only” taxis at Gimpo Airport which guarantee you’ll get a female driver who has undergone special safety training. Although slightly more expensive than regular taxis, many female travelers feel it’s worth it for the added security and comfort. You’ll have an easier time communicating destination and any special requests.
Another option is to book a ride with Korea’s women-only ride share service like the In driver app. While not technically taxis these pre-arranged female drivers using their personal vehicles offer airport transportation at very affordable rates compared to taxis.
Pre-Booking Airport Transfers and Shuttle Services
For total convenience and peace of mind you can pre-book an airport transfer through a company like KoreanBuddy or KoreanPrivateTransfer in advance of your arrival. Rates are similar to airport taxis but you’ll have guaranteed transportation with a professional english-speaking driver waiting while skipping the taxi lines.
Many services use higher-end vehicles like SUVs and vans which can be preferable for large groups or lots of luggage.There are also shared airport shuttle bus services like Korea Shuttle Bus which can be extraordinarily cheap at around $10 per person if you don’t mind making multiple stops on the way to your hotel.
No matter which option you choose be sure to have your accommodation’s address and destination specifics ready (ideally written out in Korean) to avoid any miscommunications. With a bit of preparation taking a taxi or airport transfer from Gimpo Airport can be an affordable and easy start to your Korean travels!