Gimhae International Airport serves Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, known for its busy runways and efficient travel connections. Located about 30 minutes from downtown Busan by taxi or bus, the airport handles both domestic flights and international routes to Japan, China, Southeast Asia and beyond. Modern terminals provide amenities like duty-free shops, food courts, currency exchange and lounges for passengers. The facility balances functionality with comfort, making it easy to start trips across the region while keeping wait times short during peak hours.
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
South Korean Won (KRW) £1 ≈ ₩1,766 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted in South Korea. Credit cards are commonly used in most establishments, including smaller businesses.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not customary in South Korea. However, small tips are appreciated in hotels and for exceptional service. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed in South Korea, though drinking in public spaces like parks and streets may attract attention. Alcohol is also served in many convenience stores. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces, but designated smoking areas are available in some outdoor locations. |
| Seollal (January/February) |
Celebrated in January or February with family gatherings |
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| Chuseok (September/October) |
Celebrated in September or October |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 112 (Police), 119 (Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Kakao T, T Map Taxi |
| Other: | South Korea offers a blend of traditional culture and modern technology, with historical sites, vibrant cities, and stunning landscapes. |
Gimhae International Airport primarily serves Busan and southeastern Korea, handling nearly 9 million international passengers yearly with ongoing growth. It consists of domestic and international terminals connected by a free shuttle bus, offering streamlined check-in and security processes alongside modern passenger amenities.
Within the airport, travelers can enjoy diverse dining options featuring local and international cuisine, various retail shops and comfortable lounges such as the Air Busan Lounge and Sky Hub Lounge. The airport also hosts cultural displays and rotating art exhibits that reflect Korean heritage.
Transport connectivity for the airport is excellent, with a direct subway line (Metro Line 1) linking the terminals to central Busan in about 40 minutes inexpensively. Taxis and buses are readily available, though traffic congestion during rush hours can add travel time. Visitors should be mindful of seasonal weather changes – hot and humid summers with monsoon rains and cold winters, which may affect travel plans slightly.
While efficient and generally easy to navigate, some travelers note the airport can get crowded during peak seasons, with potential wait times at security. Planning ahead and arriving early is recommended to ensure a smooth experience.
Located in the International terminal, this lounge offers relaxing seating, Wi-Fi, complimentary refreshments, and flight information displays. It is accessible to Air Busan passengers, certain frequent flyers, and via paid access, providing a comfortable space before flights.
Situated near the domestic terminal gates, Sky Hub Lounge features snacks, drinks, business facilities, and a serene atmosphere. Access is granted to eligible travellers or for a fee, ideal for resting or working before flights.
Busan offers a broad range of accommodation options from upscale seaside resorts and boutique hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, mostly concentrated around Haeundae Beach and Seomyeon districts, both easily accessible from the airport.
To Busan City Center:
The airport is about 22 km from Busan’s city centre. The Airport Railroad Express connects the airport with Sasang Station, taking approximately 40 minutes at a fare around ₩1,500 – 2,000 (£0.85 – 1.13). Metro Line 1 links Sasang to central Busan efficiently. Taxis offer a 30-minute ride costing ₩25,000 – 30,000 (£14.11 – 16.93), with traffic congestion common during peak hours.
To Haeundae Beach:
Haeundae Beach, a popular tourist destination, is reachable from Gimhae Airport by metro to Seomyeon Station and then transfer to Busan Metro Line 2, or by direct taxi in about 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Public buses are also available but less convenient for newcomers.
To Jagalchi Fish Market:
Located in central Busan, Jagalchi Fish Market is accessible by metro from the airport area via transfer at Sasang then to Nampo Station. The total journey is about 50 minutes and economical by public transport with fares under ₩2,000 (£1.13).
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