Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft do not work in South Korea; Korean ride-hailing apps do exist, but you might need a valid Korean phone number to use them. If you have a local number, download Kakao T, a popular app that's available in English.
Incheon is cheaper than Seoul in terms of accomodations, transfers, sightseeing tours, etc. You can also find pocket-friendly aternatives in the city to plan your meals.
At least the SIM cards for foreigners that you can expensively buy in the airport work. But you won't be able to pay by credit card via the app. Only option for non Koreans is pay to the taxi driver...
General TaxiThe general taxis are the cheapest and the most commonly found taxis. Most of the times, the general taxi drivers only speak Korean. If you are traveling metropolitan area, the drivers may know how to say simple English phrases. You might encounter some problem with communication.
It will go up against Kakao Corp., which operates South Korea's largest mobility service. Uber's business in the Asian country hasn't yet proven successful, as it terminated its food delivery offering after failing to overcome the dominant position of local operator Woowa Brothers Corp.
Tipping in bars and restaurants is not expected in South Korea, unlike in most countries in Europe and in the United States. The general rule is the service should be exceptional at all times, and with no expectation of extra pay. Tipping in South Korea can be considered rude and frowned upon.
Taxis are abundant and scandalously cheap compared to other world capitals, with the meter starting at 2,200 won and fares rarely exceeding 10,000 won for standard hops.
Train (AREX)Express Trains depart every 20 to 40 minutes from Incheon Int'l Airport and take approximately 40 minutes. All Stop Trains leave every 5 to 10 minutes and take just under 60 minutes to get to Seoul Station. The Express Train costs KRW 9,500 each way, while the All Stop Train is KRW 4,150 - 4,750.
It is the exact same price for a regular Taxi. If your check card is set up with Kakao Taxi (Kakao Pay), you can use the 1,000W “priority service” to “jump the queue but I don't know anyone who actually uses that. Kakao Black is the fancy car that definitely costs more.
Kakao T is South Korea's answer to Uber, and it has been quickly gaining popularity among locals and tourists alike. With its easy-to-use app and affordable rates, it's no wonder why Kakao T is becoming such a popular choice for transportation in South Korea!