General Information

Travel and local transportation information:

Please find below some key logistical information to help with your travel and local transportation during your stay in Seoul:

1.   E-arrival Card-

Starting February 24th, South Korea has introduced an electronic e-Arrival Card through the dedicated portal  e-arrivalcard.go.kr. Travellers will also be able to complete the e-Arrival Card online (via QR code at the airport) or in a paper form distributed by their airline before arrival. Alternatively, travellers can complete the e-Arrival Card prior to arrival, within 3 days of their arrival date. To complete the form, travellers will need to upload a copy of their passport's biographic page and provide details such as their date of arrival and departure, flight details, purpose of entry, and accommodation. 

2.   Travel from Airport to Hotel

Getting from Incheon International Airport to Fairmont Ambassador Seoul.

There are several ways to reach the hotel from the airport, including taxi, airport bus, subway, and a combination of bus and subway. You can explore your preferred route using online maps that show options in English.

Option 1: Airport Bus (approx. £9)

•    Take Airport Limousine Bus No. 6007 from Incheon Airport.

•    Inform the driver you're going to Fairmont Hotel in Yeouido.

•    Estimated time: 1 hour 10 minutes.

Option 2: Airport Railroad + Subway (approx. £10)

•    Take the Airport Railroad (AREX) from Incheon Terminal 1 Station to Gimpo Airport Station.

•    Transfer to Subway Line 5 and get off at Yeouinaru Station.

•    Walk about 4 minutes to the hotel.

•    Estimated time: 1 hour 20 minutes.

Option 3: Bus + Subway (approx. £11)

•    From Incheon Terminal 1 Station, take Bus 6701 or 6702 to Mapo Station.

•    Transfer to Subway Line 5 and ride to Yeouinaru Station.

•    Walk about 4 minutes to the hotel.

•    Estimated time: Around 1 hour.

Seoul's taxis are readily available and offer a cost-effective means of transportation. The airport taxi rank is on the 1st floor of the arrivals area. A ride to Seoul City Hall costs approximately W46,000 and takes about 1 hour. Seoul maintains an officially designated taxi service for foreigners. Fares are generally higher than regular taxis, but drivers are proficient in the foreign languages indicated on the vehicle's side, which include English, Chinese, and Japanese.

3.    Korean Cards – Public Transport & Café, Restaurant Payments

o    Foreign cards are not widely accepted. You can use a WOWPASS card for public transport (subway, buses, etc.) and it can also be used for purchases at many local stores, cafes, and malls. You can download the app on your phone which allows you to register the card and top-up as you go.

o    WOWPASS can be purchased at the airport or reserved for collection. Please see the link for more information WOWPASS.

o    Alternatively, a T-money card is also widely accepted for public transport and payments, this can be topped up at stations and convenience stores. 

4.   Important Note on Payment

o    Please note that credit/debit cards cannot be used to tap in or out on public transport.

o    It is recommended to carry some cash, as not all places accept cards. Most local shops and public services accept cash, WOWPASS, or T-money cards.

5.    naver maps. Possibility to setup into English language. Widely used in South Korea compared to google maps.

Travel Tips

Entry requirements

Please see the Korea Visa Portal General Guide for more information.

Dress

Business-casual attire is appropriate for all WFEClear sessions.

Time

The time zone in Seoul is Korea Standard Time (KST), i.e. UTC/GMT +9 hours.

Currency

The currency in South Korea is the South Korean Won (KRW, ₩).

  • Symbol: ₩
  • Currency code: KRW
  • Common banknotes: ₩1,000, ₩5,000, ₩10,000, ₩50,000
  • Common coins: ₩10, ₩50, ₩100, ₩500

Most outlets in Seoul accept credit cards, but having some cash can be useful for street vendors, taxis, and small businesses.

Transport

The T-Money card is a transportation card used on all forms of public transport and taxis, and can be bought at stores and stations for W2,500. These cards are loaded with credit that is deducted with each ride when swiping your card on the electric readers in each station.

Smartphone users can download apps in English that provide bus routes, schedules, and transfer information.

Electricity

In South Korea, the standard voltage is 220V, and the frequency is 60Hz. The power outlets use Type C and Type F plugs, which are the same as those used in much of Europe.

If you're traveling from a country that uses 110V (such as the US or Japan), you may need a voltage converter for devices that do not support dual voltage. However, many modern electronics (like laptops and phone chargers) are designed to handle both 110V and 220V, so check your device specifications before using a converter.

Weather

Spring is generally mild and sunny, with an average temperature of: 13-14°C, or 55-57°F. Warm outer clothes are recommended.

Connectivity

Telephone prefix: +82.

You can get internet access in city hotels and guest houses, and in some bars and restaurants.

Tipping

Tipping is not generally expected in Seoul. Service charges are usually included in bills at hotels, restaurants, and cafes.