Gimhae Airport is about 20 km from central Busan. Transport costs vary enormously depending on whether you take public transit or a car. South Korea has some of the best value public transport in the developed world, and Busan is no exception.
Metro (Light Rail + Busan Metro): KRW 1,600-1,900
The cheapest option by far. Take the Busan-Gimhae Light Rail from the airport station to Sasang, transfer to Metro Line 2, and ride to your destination. To Seomyeon: about KRW 1,700. To Haeundae: about KRW 1,900. Use a T-money card (available at airport convenience stores for KRW 2,500-4,000) for the cheapest fares and seamless transfers. The journey takes 45-70 minutes depending on destination.
Airport limousine bus: KRW 7,000-8,000
Comfortable buses with luggage storage run to major areas. Routes to Haeundae, Seomyeon, and Busan Station operate throughout the day. The ride to Haeundae takes 50-70 minutes. Buses run approximately every 20-30 minutes. Pay with T-money or cash when boarding.
Taxi: KRW 18,000-40,000
Busan taxis are metered and reliable. Standard (silver/white) taxis are cheaper. Deluxe (black) taxis cost roughly 50% more but offer larger vehicles and English-speaking drivers more often.
| Destination | Standard taxi | Deluxe taxi |
|---|---|---|
| Seomyeon | KRW 20,000-25,000 | KRW 28,000-35,000 |
| Haeundae | KRW 30,000-40,000 | KRW 40,000-55,000 |
| Busan Station | KRW 18,000-22,000 | KRW 25,000-30,000 |
| Nampo-dong | KRW 22,000-28,000 | KRW 30,000-38,000 |
| Centum City | KRW 25,000-32,000 | KRW 35,000-45,000 |
A 20% late-night surcharge applies between midnight and 4 AM.
Pre-booked transfer: USD 40-70
Private sedan transfers to central Busan start at USD 40-55. Haeundae runs USD 50-70. Minivans for groups cost USD 60-90. Prices include meet-and-greet, flight tracking, and a set waiting period. Payment is handled at booking.
What affects the price
Distance is the primary factor for metered taxis. Haeundae is farther than Seomyeon, and the meter reflects this.
Traffic can add significantly to taxi fares during rush hours. The highway between the airport and Haeundae gets congested between 8-9 AM and 5-7 PM.
Time of day affects taxis (20% surcharge midnight to 4 AM) and availability of public transit (metro stops around 11:30 PM, buses around 10:30 PM).
Vehicle type for transfers ranges from sedan to minivan to luxury. The price scales accordingly.
Cost per person comparison (to Haeundae)
| Option | Total cost | Per person (2 pax) | Per person (4 pax) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro | KRW 1,900 | KRW 1,900 | KRW 1,900 |
| Airport bus | KRW 7,000 | KRW 7,000 | KRW 7,000 |
| Standard taxi | KRW 35,000 | KRW 17,500 | KRW 8,750 |
| Transfer | USD 60 (~KRW 80,000) | KRW 40,000 | KRW 20,000 |
For groups of 3-4, a standard taxi to Haeundae costs less per person than the airport bus.
The honest recommendation
Solo travellers and couples should take the metro or airport bus — South Korean public transport is clean, safe, and punctual. Groups of 3-4 should consider a taxi, which becomes very competitive per person. Book a transfer if you need English-speaking service, child seats, or are arriving after public transit closes.