How Do I Transfer from AREX to Seoul Subway Line 2 at Hongik University Station?

QUICK ANSWER

Get off the AREX All-Stop Train at Hongik University Station, follow signs for Seoul Subway Line 2, pass through the required transfer gates and check the direction before reaching the platform. With large luggage, follow elevator signs and allow extra time because the station is long and busy.

OPEN HONGIK UNIVERSITY STATION IN NAVER MAP

Important: Use the All-Stop Train

The AREX Express Train runs between Incheon Airport and Seoul Station and does not provide the same Hongik University Station stop as the All-Stop Train. If Hongdae or a Line 2 transfer is your goal, check the train type before boarding at the airport.

Step-by-step transfer

1. Leave the AREX train at Hongik University Station.
2. Follow overhead signs marked Line 2 or the green Line 2 symbol.
3. Keep your transport card ready for any transfer gate required by the station layout.
4. Before entering the platform, check the direction and next stations.
5. Use an elevator if you have a suitcase; escalators may still require a longer walk.

Choose the correct Line 2 direction

Destination area	Check signs toward
City Hall, Euljiro, Dongdaemun	Sinchon and central Seoul direction
Yeongdeungpo or southwest Seoul	Hapjeong direction

Line 2 is circular, so do not rely only on “inner” or “outer” descriptions. Confirm the next one or two station names shown on the platform display.

With luggage or a stroller

• Allow at least 10–15 extra minutes inside the station.
• Follow elevator signs even if the route looks longer.
• Avoid Exit 9 with a large suitcase during busy evening hours.
• For hotels on the quieter Yeonnam-dong side, check whether Exit 3 or a nearby elevator route is more suitable.
• Save the exact hotel pin before leaving the station.

Do you need a new ticket?

If you use a compatible transport card for the AREX All-Stop Train and subway, follow the transfer gates and tap as instructed. Ticket handling can differ if you use a separate product or single-use ticket. Check the gate instructions instead of forcing a card that is rejected, and ask station staff for help.

Common mistakes

• Boarding the AREX Express Train when the destination is Hongik University Station.
• Following an exit sign before completing the Line 2 transfer.
• Choosing the Line 2 platform without checking the next station.
• Assuming all exits have equally convenient elevators.
• Searching only “Hongdae” instead of the exact hotel or destination.

If you are staying in Hongdae

You may not need Line 2 at all. Exit toward the side closest to your hotel: the busy Hongdae shopping and nightlife side is commonly associated with Exit 9, while Yeonnam-dong and Gyeongui Line Forest Park are closer to the Exit 3 side. Confirm the exact elevator and walking route in NAVER Map.

Before leaving the airport

• Check that the train says All-Stop Train.
• Load or purchase the correct fare product.
• Save 홍대입구역 and your hotel name in Korean.
• Keep your phone charged for the final walking route.

Official references: Airport Railroad and Seoul Metro.

Station gates, elevator routes and operating times can change. Follow current signs and live transit information on your travel day.