Experience Incheon

Discover Incheon: Your Gateway to Adventure!

Image
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.

Thank you to our local support!

Image

Tour and Travel Websites

VISIT KOREA SITE 

VISIT INCHEON SITE 

Experience 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