π From Ilsan to Seoul Station in 26 Minutes with GTX-A? Real Experience & Review
With the opening of GTX-A, many residents in Gyeonggi Province are wondering just how much faster and easier commuting to Seoul has become. Today, we’ll walk you through the actual experience of traveling from Jeongbalsan Station in Ilsan to Seoul Station via Line 3 and GTX-A—including total travel time, transfer convenience, cost efficiency, and overall impressions.
Taking Line 3 from Jeongbalsan Station to Daegok Station and then transferring to GTX-A gets you to Seoul Station in around 26 minutes in total. The actual ride on GTX-A took about 21 minutes, and walking through the transfer passage inside Daegok Station took roughly 10 minutes.
π Transfer Time at Daegok Station
Daegok Station's GTX-A platform is located deep underground. It takes about 10 minutes to transfer from Line 3 to the GTX-A platform. If you’re pushing a stroller or carrying heavy items, you’ll need to use the elevator, which may add to the transfer time—especially on weekends when the station gets busier.
πΈ Time Savings vs. Cost Efficiency
Interestingly, travel time between Jeongbalsan and Yeonsinnae is only 2 minutes shorter on GTX-A compared to Line 3. This brings up the question of whether the additional fare for GTX-A is worth it for short distances. While longer routes like to Seoul Station do show a clear time advantage, it's important to weigh cost versus benefit.
π Inside the GTX-A: Ride Quality & Interior
GTX-A may be faster, but it feels similar to a regular subway ride. With no windows and synthetic, non-fabric seats, the train interior is clean and practical. Noise and vibration levels are low, offering a stable and smooth ride overall.
π Development Around Daegok Station & Future Outlook
With the launch of GTX-A, areas around Daegok Station are expected to see major urban development. The lifting of greenbelt restrictions indicates that the next 10 years could bring significant infrastructure and real estate growth. Once the Samsung Station extension is completed, access to Gangnam will also improve dramatically.
π― Who Should Use GTX-A?
GTX-A is a great choice for commuters heading to central business hubs like Seoul or Gangnam. But for short trips, or occasional weekend outings, the fare might not justify the marginal time saved. In such cases, regular subway lines could be more practical.
π Final Thoughts: Fast, but Be Ready for Transfers
After riding from Ilsan to Seoul using GTX-A, I found the overall travel time impressive. However, you should plan for the transfer time, especially if you have mobility needs. As the line extends to Samsung Station and more areas, the true value of GTX-A will increase, improving regional accessibility and even influencing real estate markets.
⏱️ Want to reach Seoul faster and easier? Give GTX-A a try and see for yourself!
