Hongdae and Jamsil are both on Subway Line 2, the circular green line. Take Line 2 eastbound directly from Hongdae (Hapjeong Station) to Jamsil Station with no transfers. About 30 minutes and 1,500 won. Exit 4 at Jamsil leads directly into the Lotte World complex underground.
Quick Answer: Subway Line 2 directly from Hongdae (Hapjeong Station) to Jamsil Station (Exit 4): 30 minutes, 1,500 won, no transfers required. This direct connection makes Hongdae one of the most convenient Seoul bases for visiting Lotte World.
Best Route
Subway Line 2 direct (recommended): From Hongdae Station (Line 2, 239) or Hapjeong Station (Line 2, 238), board Line 2 in the eastbound (clockwise) direction. Ride about 12 stops to Jamsil Station (216). About 30 minutes. No transfers.
Confirming the direction: At Hongdae or Hapjeong, the clockwise direction on Line 2 passes through Sinchon (241) next. If the platform indicator shows Sinchon as the next station, you are going in the correct direction toward Jamsil. The counterclockwise direction from Hongdae goes through Dangsan first, which is the wrong way.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: At Hongdae Station (Line 2, 239) or Hapjeong Station (238), locate the Line 2 platform for the eastbound (clockwise) direction. If the platform indicator shows Sinchon (241) as the next stop, and it shows Dangsan, cross to the other platform.
Step 2: Board Line 2 and ride eastbound for approximately 12 stops and 30 minutes to Jamsil Station (216). The train passes through Sinchon, Ewha Womans University, Anam, City Hall, Euljiro, Ttukseom, Konkuk University, and then Jamsil.
Step 3: At Jamsil Station, take Exit 4. This exit connects directly itothe basement level of the Lotte World complex. Follow the clearly posted signs for Lotte World Adventure (an indoor and outdoor theme park), Lotte World Aquarium (separate admission fee), or Lotte World Tower (Seoul Sky observation deck).
Cost
Subway Line 2: 1,500 won with a T-money card. The slightly higher fare for longer journeys reflects the distance—no additional transfer fare.
Taxi from Hongdae: Approximately 12,000 to 18,000 won, 25 to 35 minutes.
Lotte World Adventure entry: Approximately 62,000 won for adults. Check the official website for current pricing and online discount options.
Travel Time
Hongdae to Lotte World entrance: approximately 30 minutes by subway. One of the more convenient cross-Seoul connections, given that no transfer is required.
The direct Line 2 service between Hongdae and Jamsil runs every 2 to 3 minutes during peak hours, making the journey very reliable for planning arrival times.
Taxi Option
A taxi from Hongdae to Lotte World costs approximately 12,000 to 18,000 won and takes 25 to 35 minutes. The direct subway at 1,500 won is much cheaper and usually takes about the same time. Taxis are most useful very late at night, after the last subway train, or for families with young children and heavy luggage.
Best Option with Luggage
The direct Line 2 from Hongdae is accessible with standard luggage. Both Hongdae Station and Jamsil Station have elevators. For heavy bags, leave them at your Hongdae accommodation before the Lotte World visit. The Jamsil underground complex has coin lockers near Exit 4.
Best Option Late at Night
Lotte World Adventure closes at 11 pmpm on peak-season days (earlier on quieter weekdays). The Seoul Sky observation deck closes at 10:30 pm0pm. Line 2 from Jamsil back toward Hongdae runs until after midnight—the last trains depart from ArtJambetweenound 11:3 and midnight, depending on the day.
Nearby Guides
FAQ
Is Line 2 the direct connection between Hongdae and Jamsil?
Yes. Line 2 (the green circular line) connects Hongdae and Hapjeong directly to Jamsil with no transfers required. This makes Hongdae one of the most convenient bases in Seoul for reaching Lotte World quickly.
How do I know which direction to board Line 2 from Hongdae?
From Hongdae or Hapjeong, take the clockwise direction. The next station clockwise is Sinchon (241). If the platform display shows Sinchon, you are boarding correctly. The counterclockwise direction goes to Dangsan first and is the long way around to Jamsil.
Is Lotte World Adventure worth visiting from Hongdae?
Yes. The 30-minute direct subway makes Lotte World very accessible from Hongdae. Lotte World Adventure includes both a large indoor theme park (the world’s largest indoor theme park) and the outdoor Magic Island section with lake views.
