Seoul Station and Gangnam are on opposite sides of the Han River. The subway takes about 25 to 30 minutes. Here is the most direct route, and when the taxi is worth it instead.
Seoul Station sits north of the Han River in the historical city core. Gangnam is south of the river and is a separate world from the northern districts, Korea’s wealthiest commercial area, with premium hotels, entertainment agency headquarters, and the COEX complex. The distance is not far, but crossing the river adds to the s journey time.
Quick answer: Line 1 from Seoul Station four stops south to Noryangjin, cross-platform transfer to Line 9 Express, then Line 9 two stops east to Sinnonhyeon (central Gangnam). Total about 25 to 30 minutes, around 1,650 won. Or taxi in 20 to 35 minutes for 15,000 to 22,000 won.
Option 1: Subway via Line 1 and Line 9
- Step 1: From Seoul Station, board Line 1 (dark blue) toward Suwon/south direction.
- Step 2: Four stops to Noryangjin Station (about 10 minutes).
- Step 3: Transfer to Line 9 (gold). Board the Express (급행) toward Bongeunsa/east.
- Step 4: Two stops on Line 9 Express to Sinnonhyeon Station in central Gangnam, about 10 minutes.
Total: About 25 to 30 minutes. Around 1,650 won with T-money.
Option 2: Subway via Line 4 and Line 2
- Line 4 from Seoul Station: Four stops south to Sadang (about 12 minutes).
- Transfer to Line 2: Two stops east to Gangnam Station (main Gangnam commercial hub), about 5 minutes.
Total: About 25 minutes. Good if your destination is the main Gangnam Station area rather than the Sinnonhyeon/Garosu-gil area.
Option 3: Taxi
Taxis cross the Han River via the Hangang Bridge and take 20 to 35 minutes to Gangnam, depending on traffic. It costs approximately 15,000 to 22,000 won. During the morning rush hour (8 am to 9:30 am) and the evening rush hour (6 pm to 8 pm), taxi times increase significantly. The subway is more reliable during rush hours. For off-peak travel with luggage, the taxi is comfortable and reasonably priced for this distance.
Option 4: Uber
Uber is available in Seoul, though it mainly operates through licensed taxis rather than private rideshare cars. From the Han River area to Gangnam, Uber usually takes about 20 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic, similar to a regular taxi. The fare typically ranges from 15,000 to 25,000 won, but prices may vary depending on demand, vehicle type, and traffic conditions.
During the morning rush hour from 8 am to 9:30 am and the evening rush hour from 6 pm to 8 pm, travel times can increase significantly. The subway is usually more reliable during these peak periods. For off-peak travel, especially with luggage, Uber can be a convenient and comfortable option, though regular taxis may sometimes be easier to find and slightly cheaper.
