Check In at Seoul Station Before Flying Home — Enjoy Your Last Day in Korea Without the Rush!

No matter how many trips we take, the last day always feels like a race against time. The fun peaks mid-trip, but when departure day hits, suddenly it’s all stress: packing in a rush, dragging suitcases, catching trains, and beating the check-in counter deadline. And if you went on a shopping spree the day before? Say hello to an exhausting morning.

But here’s a travel hack that will change your game—especially if you’re heading to South Korea. Use the Seoul Station check-in service at the City Airport Terminal, and turn your departure day into a relaxing one. You can check in luggage at Seoul Station, clear immigration in advance, and enjoy Seoul freely without the burden of bags or time pressure. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step and share smart tips to help you make the most of your final day in Seoul.

The City Airport Terminal at Seoul Station is a smart, time-saving solution for travelers flying out of Incheon Airport. Conveniently located in the heart of the city, it functions like a mini airport where you can take care of everything before even heading to the actual terminal.

If you’re planning to take the AREX (Airport Railroad Express) to the airport, you can easily use the Seoul station check-in service. Just head to Seoul Station, check in your luggage, get your boarding pass, and even clear immigration—all in one seamless stop. After that, you’re free to explore the city without the burden of bags or time pressure.

It’s the perfect option for anyone who wants to make the most of their last day in Seoul. No rushing, no heavy lifting, and no long queues. Just smooth travel and more time to enjoy the city before your flight.

Planning to make the most of your last day in Seoul? Here’s how to use the Seoul station check-in service at the City Airport Terminal with ease:

1. Go to the B2 Level, Seoul Station

Follow the signs for “City Airport Terminal.” The directions are clear and easy to navigate—you won’t get lost.

2. Purchase an AREX Express Train Ticket

This service is available only for travelers with an AREX Express (non-stop) ticket to Incheon Airport. Tickets cost around 11,000 KRW. Be sure to choose your departure time carefully—you can’t switch trains later.

3. Scan Your Ticket and Head to the Airline Check-In Counter

Once your AREX ticket is scanned, proceed to the designated check-in area. Airline staff will be there to assist you. Keep your passport ready.

4. Check In and Drop Off Your Bags

Use the Seoul station luggage check-in counter to drop off your baggage. You’ll receive your boarding pass and bag tags. A staff member will escort you to the baggage scanning area. The process takes around 10–15 minutes, depending on how many bags you have and whether everything is packed properly.

5. Proceed to Immigration

After your bags are cleared, head to the on-site immigration checkpoint inside the City Airport Terminal. Show your passport and boarding pass to clear immigration on the spot. Once done, you’re free to enjoy Seoul hands-free!

6. Go Straight to the Gate at Incheon Airport

When you arrive at the airport, you can skip the immigration queues. Just follow the signs for “Crew/Transfer” or “Fast Track” and head straight to your boarding gate. Since you’ve already cleared immigration, there’s no need to wait in line again.

Not every airline participates in the Seoul station check-in service, so it’s important to check in advance whether your flight is eligible. Some of the airlines that currently support this service include:
 

• ● Korean Air
• ● Asiana Airlines
• ● Jeju Air
• ● Jin Air
• ● T’way Air
• ● Air Busan

The City Airport Terminal follows a clear operating schedule, so make sure to plan your timing carefully:
 

• ● Open daily from 05:20 AM to 7:00 PM
• ● You must check in at least 3 hours before your flight
• ● Service is available only with an AREX Express Train ticket (non-stop train only)
• ● Double-check your airline’s baggage rules before using the Seoul station luggage check-in service

After using the Seoul station check-in service at the City Airport Terminal, you might be wondering—what can you do with your free time before heading to the airport? Good news: there are plenty of great spots just a short walk or subway ride from Seoul Station that are perfect for a relaxed final day in the city.

Here are 5 must-visit places to enjoy your last few hours in Seoul—no luggage, no rush:
 

1. Deoksugung Palace

Just a 15-minute walk from Seoul Station, this historic palace blends traditional Korean architecture with Western influences in a truly unique setting. Stroll through peaceful gardens, catch the royal guard changing ceremony at the front gate, and snap some final trip photos in a classic atmosphere. You can even rent a hanbok nearby for that picture-perfect moment.
 

2. Seoullo 7017

This elevated urban garden was once a highway overpass and is now a green oasis above the city. Only minutes from Seoul Station, it features over 200 types of plants, resting spots, and scenic viewpoints. It’s ideal for an afternoon walk, taking in panoramic views of the Seoul skyline. If your flight is in the evening, go during golden hour for a breezy, picture-perfect sendoff.
 

3. Namdaemun Market

Looking for last-minute souvenirs or one final Korean food fix? Head to Namdaemun Market, Seoul’s oldest and most vibrant traditional market, just 10 minutes on foot. Shop for local snacks, accessories, home goods, or dig into street food classics like Korean dumplings (mandu), oxtail soup, and hot porridge.
 

4. Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA)

5. Yongsan & Sookmyung Café Street

Wrap up your trip on a cozy note with a café crawl in Yongsan or Sookmyung—just 1–2 subway stops away. These neighborhoods are full of charming cafés, including rooftops with skyline views and spots perfect for journaling or sipping on a last cup of artisan coffee. Many places also offer cute, homemade pastries ideal for an Instagram-worthy farewell.

Who says your departure day has to be hectic? With the Seoul station check-in service at the City Airport Terminal, you can turn your last day into extra time to explore—no stress, no heavy bags.

There’s no need to rush out early, drag your luggage around, or wait in long airport lines. Just check in your luggage at Seoul Station, clear immigration on the spot, and enjoy the city hands-free. Whether you want to stroll through a park, shop for souvenirs, or unwind at a café, you’ve got time to do it all.

So for your next Korea trip, plan smart. Book your flights, stays, AREX Express tickets, and activities all in one place with Gother—your go-to platform for smooth, hassle-free travel.