Cheap Flights from Seoul to Urumqi Starting at $96

Seoul is served by two main airports: Incheon International (ICN), the country’s primary international hub located about 48 km west of the city center, and Gimpo International (GMP), a smaller airport roughly 16 km to the west that handles domestic flights and short-haul regional routes. Incheon typically hosts long-haul carriers and full-service airlines and can be perceived as more premium, while Gimpo often sees budget and domestic operators plus a few regional international services. Transfer options include the AREX express/train to central Seoul (about 45–60 minutes from Incheon, 9–12 minutes from Gimpo) and airport buses (60–90 minutes from Incheon; fares for AREX and buses usually range from low to moderate). Taxis and private transfers are available — expect longer times in peak traffic. Pros: Incheon offers extensive facilities, lounges and global connectivity; Gimpo is quicker for Seoul access and domestic connections. Cons: Incheon’s distance can add travel time and cost, while Gimpo has fewer long-haul options and smaller amenity choices.

Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (URC) is the main international and domestic gateway for Xinjiang, typically serving full-service carriers such as China Southern and Air China alongside several regional and low-cost operators. Located about 16–20 km northwest of downtown Urumqi, transfer to the city center can take roughly 25–45 minutes by taxi with fares commonly in the mid-range for Chinese cities, or around 30–50 minutes by airport express bus at modest ticket prices. The airport usually offers a good selection of passenger amenities and connections for onward travel across western China and Central Asia, but peak times can be busy and ground transport options may be limited late at night.