Myeongdong is 15 minutes on foot from Seoul Station or a 1-stop subway ride. Most people walk. Here is exactly how.
Seoul Station is one of Seoul’s main transport hubs, where the KTX terminal, the AREX from both airports, and multiple subway lines all converge. Myeongdong, the central visitor neighbourhood, is close enough that most travellers walk rather than take another subway leg. Knowing the walking route saves time, subway fare, and the confusion of another transfer.
Quick answer: Walk 15 minutes northeast from Seoul Station Exit 4 through the Namdaemun Market area to reach Myeongdong. Or take Line 4 (blue) one stop from Seoul Station to Hoehyeon Station (Myeongdong exit). Walking is usually faster.
Option 1: Walk (Recommended, 15 Minutes)
The walking route from Seoul Station to Myeongdong passes through the Namdaemun Market area and is a worthwhile urban walk in its own right. Namdaemun is Korea’s oldest continuously operating traditional market, and the surrounding streets are lined with street food stalls, traditional goods, and local commerce.
- Exit Seoul Station from Exit 4 or 5: These exits face north toward the city centre.
- Walk northeast along Namdaemunro: The main road runs directly toward Myeongdong. Follow signs for Namdaemun Gate.
- Pass Namdaemun Gate (Sungnyemun): The 14th-century city gate is on your left. A significant historical landmark worth noting as you pass.
- Continue northeast to Myeongdong-gil: The main Myeongdong shopping street begins on your right. The total walk is about 15 minutes at a comfortable pace.
Option 2: Subway Line 4 (One Stop)
If you have luggage or prefer not to walk:
- From Seoul Station: Board Line 4 (blue). One stop north to Hoehyeon Station.
- At Hoehyeon: Exit 5 or 6 leads directly into the Myeongdong shopping area.
- Cost: Around 1,350 won with T-money. Journey about 4 minutes.
Option 3: Taxi
Short-distance taxis in Seoul can sometimes be hard to find during peak hours, as drivers prefer longer fares. The subway or walking is more reliable for this particular journey. If you do take a taxi, the cost is around 5,000 to 7,000 won, and the journey time is 5 to 10 minutes.
Getting to Seoul Station
Seoul Station receives the AREX All-Stop, and Express trains from Incheon Airport, KTX from Busan and other cities, the AREX from Gimpo Airport, and subway Lines 1 and 4. If arriving from Incheon, the Incheon Airport to Seoul guide covers the AREX journey and what to do at Seoul Station on arrival.
