Experience Incheon

Discover Incheon: Your Gateway to Adventure!

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Gyeongbokgung Palace

The Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) welcomes you to Incheon, South Korea’s vibrant port city and a dynamic gateway to the heart of East Asia! Known for its modernity, rich history, and picturesque landscapes, Incheon offers a unique blend of experiences that will captivate travelers from around the globe.

View more information on Incheon:

Tour and Travel Websites

VISIT KOREA SITE 

VISIT INCHEON SITE 

guide to the songdo

Congress Location

This year's Congress will take place at the Songdo Convensia.

123 Central-ro, Yeonsu-gu, 
Incheon, South Korea

Songdo Convensia, Incheon’s premier convention center, is located in the heart of Songdo International City. Featuring state-of-the-art facilities, flexible event spaces, and advanced technology, it’s ideal for conferences, trade shows, and corporate events. Conveniently near Incheon International Airport, luxury hotels, and dining, it offers a seamless experience. Committed to sustainability, it integrates eco-friendly practices for exceptional events.

Getting to Songdo Convensia from Incheon International Airport (ICN)

Songdo Convensia is conveniently accessible from Incheon International Airport (ICN) via various transportation options:

1. Pick-up Service (Pre-arranged Private Transfer) - Recommended for Convenience

For a hassle-free and comfortable journey, pre-arranged private transfers are available. These services provide direct transport from Incheon International Airport to Songdo Convensia or your hotel.

  • Booking: Can be arranged through hotels, travel agencies, or online booking platforms (e.g., Klook, Trazy, or Incheon Airport's official website).
  • Vehicle Options: Standard sedan, deluxe taxi, or large van (ideal for groups or travelers with luggage).
  • Estimated Fare: ₩70,000–₩120,000 (varies by vehicle type and service).
  • Travel Time: 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic.
  • Meet & Greet Option: Drivers typically wait at the arrival gate with a name sign for easy identification.

This option is ideal for groups, business travelers, or those preferring direct service with no transfers.

2. Taxi Services

Regular Taxi

  • Estimated Fare: Approximately ₩25,000 (additional express tolls may apply)
  • Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes
  • Taxi Stand Locations:
    • Terminal 1: 5C, 6C, 6D
    • Terminal 2: 5C, 4D, 3C, 3D

Deluxe Taxi (Black) & Deluxe Van Taxi (up to 8 people)

  • Estimated Fare: Approximately ₩41,000
  • Taxi Stand Locations:
    • Terminal 1: 7C, 8C
    • Terminal 2: 5D

International Taxi

  • Estimated Fare: Approximately ₩35,000
  • Taxi Stand Locations:
    • Terminal 1: 4C
    • Terminal 2: 1C
  • Reservation: +82-1644-2255 or reserve@intltaxi.co.kr

Note:

  • A 20% night surcharge applies between 24:00 and 04:00.
  • Interpretation services and receipts are available upon request.
  • For taxi information, call +82-32-120.

Tip: To assist the driver, you can show them the following message:

송도컨벤시아로 가 주세요. (I want to go to Songdo Convensia)

3. Bus Services

Bus Number 303

  • Departure Points:
    • Terminal 1: Bus Stop No.2 or No.13 on the 3rd Floor
    • Terminal 2: Bus Stop No.1 or No.8 on the 1st Floor
  • Schedule:
    • Weekdays: Every 14–17 minutes
    • Saturdays: Every 18–22 minutes
    • Public Holidays: Every 20–25 minutes
    • Operating Hours: 05:00–21:30
  • Travel Time: Approximately 30–40 minutes
  • Fare:
    • Adults: ₩2,400
    • Teenagers: ₩1,800
    • Children (ages 6–12): ₩1,000

Bus Number 303-1

  • Departure Points:
    • Terminal 1: Bus Stop No.2 or No.13 on the 3rd Floor
    • Terminal 2: Bus Stop No.1 or No.8 on the 1st Floor
  • Schedule:
    • Weekdays: Every 35–40 minutes
    • Saturdays: Every 45–55 minutes
    • Public Holidays: Every 45–55 minutes
    • Operating Hours: 05:00–20:30
  • Travel Time: Approximately 40–50 minutes
  • Fare:
    • Adults: ₩2,400
    • Teenagers: ₩1,800
    • Children (ages 6–12): ₩1,000

Note: Both buses stop near major hotels in Songdo, such as Orakai Songdo Park Hotel, which is in close proximity to Songdo Convensia.

4. Limousine Bus Services

Bus Number 6777

  • Departure Points:
    • Terminal 1: Bus Stop No.8 on the 3rd Floor
    • Terminal 2: Center of Transportation Center No.17 on the 1st Basement Floor
  • Drop-off Point: Central Park (센트럴공원), a short walk from Songdo Convensia
  • Schedule: Every 40–120 minutes
  • Travel Time: Approximately 120 minutes
  • Fare: ₩8,000

Bus Number 6777-1

  • Departure Points:
    • Terminal 1: Bus Stop No.8 on the 3rd Floor
    • Terminal 2: Center of Transportation Center No.17 on the 1st Basement Floor
  • Drop-off Point: Central Park (센트럴공원)
  • Schedule: Every 40–120 minutes
  • Travel Time: Approximately 120 minutes
  • Fare: ₩8,000

5. Subway

  • Route:
    1. Airport Railroad (AREX): Board at Terminal 1 or Terminal 2.
    2. Transfer at Gyeyang Station to Incheon Subway Line 1.
    3. Disembark at Incheon National University Station (Exit 4).
  • Walking Distance: About a 10-minute walk to Songdo Convensia from Exit 4.
  • Travel Time: Approximately 90 minutes
  • Fare: ₩4,150

For more detailed information, please visit the official Songdo Convensia directions page:

songdoconvensia.visitincheon.or.kr

Know Before You Go

1. Entry Requirements & Travel Documents

Visa Requirements

  • K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization): Many nationalities (including the U.S., Canada, EU countries, Australia) must apply for a K-ETA before entering South Korea. Apply online at www.k-eta.go.kr at least 72 hours before departure.
  • Visa: If your country requires a visa, apply in advance through the nearest South Korean embassy.
  • Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date.

More information

COVID-19 & Health Requirements

  • As of 2025, check for any health declarations, vaccination, or quarantine rules on the Korean Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) website.
  • South Korea has high-quality healthcare but expect to pay upfront for medical services if needed (keep receipts for reimbursement).
  • Travel Insurance: Highly recommended, covering health emergencies and trip cancellations.

2. Arrival in South Korea

Incheon International Airport (ICN)

  • Immigration: Fill out the arrival card (unless exempt under K-ETA) and go through biometric verification.
  • Baggage & Customs: Declare any restricted items.
  • SIM Cards & eSIM: Buy at the airport for data and calls (available at KT, SKT, or LG U+ booths).
  • Currency Exchange & ATMs: Major banks have exchange counters at the airport. ATMs accepting foreign cards are also available.

3. Getting Around Incheon & Seoul

Public Transportation

  • T-Money Card: Buy and top up at convenience stores for buses, subways, and taxis.
  • Subway: Easy to use with English signage (use Naver Maps or Kakao Maps for navigation, as Google Maps has limited functionality).
  • Buses: Extensive network, but cash is not accepted—use a T-Money card.
  • Taxis: Affordable and widely available. Use Kakao T app for hassle-free rides.

Essential Apps

  • Naver Map or Kakao Map (for accurate navigation, Google Maps will NOT work)
  • Kakao T (for taxis)
  • Papago (for translations)
  • Subway Korea (real-time subway routes)

4. Money & Payments

  • Currency: South Korean Won (KRW) (₩1,000 ≈ $0.75 USD as of 2025).
  • ATMs: Look for “Global ATM” signs; some machines do not accept foreign cards.
  • Credit Cards: Widely accepted, but some small vendors prefer cash.
  • Tipping: Not customary in Korea.

5. Cultural Etiquette & Local Customs

  • Bowing: A slight bow is a common greeting.
  • Shoes Off Indoors: Remove shoes when entering homes and traditional restaurants.
  • Quiet Public Spaces: Keep noise levels low on public transport.
  • Respect for Elders: Give up seats on buses and subways.
  • No Public Trash Cans: Carry a bag for your trash.

6. Food & Dietary Considerations

  • Dietary Restrictions: Many dishes contain soy, seafood, and gluten; communicate allergies clearly.
  • Korean Dishes to Try: Bibimbap, Bulgogi, Kimchi, and Samgyeopsal.
  • Vegetarian/Vegan Options: Limited but available in bigger cities; check HappyCow app.
  • Convenience Stores: Offer affordable meal options like gimbap and instant ramen.

7. Safety & Emergency Information

  • Emergency Numbers:
    • Police: 112
    • Medical Emergency: 119
    • Tourist Police (English Help): 1330

8. Packing Essentials

  • Power Adapter: South Korea uses Type C & F plugs, 220V.
  • Comfortable Walking Shoes: Expect to walk a lot.
  • Seasonal Clothing: April weather is mild (12-18°C/54-64°F), with occasional rain.
  • Portable WiFi/Sim: If you need consistent data, rent a WiFi egg or buy a local SIM.
  • Toiletries: Available at convenience stores if you forget something.

9. Additional Travel Tips

  • Time Zone: Korea Standard Time (KST) is UTC+9.
  • Language: Korean; English is spoken in tourist areas but not everywhere.
  • Smoking: Not allowed in most public spaces.
  • Drinking Water: Tap water is safe to drink, but most locals prefer bottled.
  • Shopping: Myeongdong, Insadong, and Hongdae in Seoul are great for souvenirs.
  • Day Trips: Consider visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace or Bukchon Hanok Village