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How Long Does It Take to Travel from Seoul to Jeju? (Best Routes & Travel Tips)

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Planning a trip from Seoul to Jeju Island and wondering how long it takes? Whether you're looking for the fastest route or considering an alternative travel experience, knowing your options can save you time and hassle.

The most common and fastest way to get to Jeju is by direct flight from Gimpo Airport (GMP) to Jeju International Airport (CJU), taking just 1 hour and 10 minutes. However, there are alternative routes, like taking a train and ferry, which can take 5–12 hours depending on the route and transfers.

This guide covers the most efficient travel methods, estimated travel times, and tips to make your journey smooth and stress-free.


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How Long Does It Take to Travel from Seoul to Jeju?

Fastest & Most Popular Route: Direct Flight

  • Departure: Gimpo International Airport (GMP), Seoul
  • Arrival: Jeju International Airport (CJU), Jeju Island
  • Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Airlines: Jeju Air, T’way Air, Jin Air, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Air Busan
  • Flight Frequency: Over 100 flights daily
  • Ticket Price: ₩30,000–₩100,000 ($25–$80 USD)

✅ Best for: Travelers looking for the fastest, cheapest, and most convenient way to Jeju.

Alternative Travel Routes from Seoul to Jeju

If you prefer an overland journey or want to avoid flying, you can combine a train or car with a ferry.

🚄 KTX Train + Ferry Route (Scenic Alternative)

This is the fastest non-flight option, but it still takes 7–9 hours.

  1. Take the KTX train from Seoul Station to Mokpo Station

    • Duration: 2.5 hours
    • Cost: ₩46,800 ($35 USD)

  2. Take a taxi or bus to Mokpo Ferry Terminal

    • Duration: 15–20 minutes

  3. Take a ferry from Mokpo to Jeju

    • Duration: 4–6 hours
    • Cost: ₩30,000–₩80,000 ($25–$65 USD)

⏳ Total Travel Time: 7–9 hours

✅ Best for: Travelers who enjoy scenic routes and aren’t in a rush.

🚗 Car + Ferry Route (For Road Trips & Car Travel)

If you're traveling with a vehicle, you can drive to a port and take a ferry to Jeju.

Step 1: Drive from Seoul to a Ferry Port

  • Mokpo Port: 4.5 hours
  • Wando Port: 5 hours
  • Busan Port: 4.5–5 hours

Step 2: Take a Ferry to Jeju

  • Mokpo to Jeju: 4–6 hours
  • Wando to Jeju: 3 hours
  • Busan to Jeju: 12–14 hours (overnight ferry)

⏳ Total Travel Time: 6–14 hours (depending on the port and ferry schedule).

✅ Best for: Road trip lovers and those bringing a car to Jeju.

Factors That Affect Travel Time

⏳ 1. Seasonal Demand & Ticket Availability

  • Peak seasons (summer, Lunar New Year, Chuseok) = longer wait times, sold-out tickets, and higher prices.
  • Book early to avoid last-minute stress.

⛈ 2. Weather Conditions

  • Flights: Fog, rain, and typhoons can delay or cancel flights.
  • Ferries: Stormy seas may result in longer sail times or cancellations.

⏰ 3. Ferry Schedules & Transfers

  • Unlike flights, ferries do not run 24/7. Missing a ferry means waiting for the next departure.

🛫 4. Airport vs. Train Station Accessibility

  • Gimpo Airport (GMP) is closer to central Seoul (40 minutes by subway), making flights more convenient than train + ferry options.

Credit:Tranmautritam

How to Make Your Trip Faster & Smoother

✅ For Flights:

  • Book early for the best prices.
  • Use online check-in and bring only carry-on luggage.
  • Fly from Gimpo (GMP) instead of Incheon (ICN)—Gimpo is faster and more convenient for domestic flights.

✅ For Train + Ferry Travel:

  • Take the first KTX train in the morning to Mokpo for better ferry connections.
  • Check ferry schedules in advance to avoid long layovers.

✅ For Car Travel:

  • Use Waze or Naver Maps for real-time traffic updates before driving.
  • If taking an overnight ferry, book a cabin for better rest.

FAQs: People Also Ask

1. What is the fastest way to get from Seoul to Jeju?

The fastest way is a direct flight from Gimpo Airport (GMP) to Jeju International Airport (CJU), which takes 1 hour and 10 minutes.

2. How much does a flight from Seoul to Jeju cost?

  • Budget airlines (Jeju Air, T’way Air, Jin Air) offer fares between ₩30,000–₩100,000 ($25–$80 USD), depending on demand.

3. Can I take a train from Seoul to Jeju?

No, but you can take the KTX train to Mokpo, then a ferry to Jeju, with a total travel time of 7–9 hours.

4. Can I take my car to Jeju?

Yes, ferries from Mokpo, Wando, and Busan allow vehicles. Travel time varies from 3–14 hours depending on the port.

5. Are there overnight travel options?

Yes, the Busan to Jeju overnight ferry takes 12–14 hours and allows passengers to sleep onboard.

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