Gang Won Do, South Korea
Detailed planning ensures a well-organized travel experience.
Begin early for a complete and worry-free journey.
Check your passport's expiration date. It must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure from South Korea.
Research South Korea's visa and K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) requirements based on your nationality. Start application process early if a visa is needed.
Book international flights to Incheon International Airport (ICN) or Gimpo International Airport (GMP). Early booking often secures better prices, especially for peak travel seasons.
Book KTX train tickets from Seoul to Gangneung, especially if traveling on weekends or during holidays. Express bus tickets are also an option.
Plan your detailed itinerary for Gangneung, including attractions, dining, and any day trips. Use Naver Map or KakaoMap to plan routes.
If renting a car in South Korea, obtain an International Driving Permit in your home country. It is needed with your domestic driver's license.
Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to South Korea. This avoids card flagging and blocking.
Download and explore apps: Naver Map/KakaoMap, Papago (translation), and Kakao T (taxi/ride-sharing).
Exchange a small amount of Korean Won or confirm your ATM card works with "Global ATMs" in Korea.
Booking ahead secures your travel arrangements.
Prepare your home for your absence.
A little knowledge makes your trip richer.
Take photos of all your packed luggage and its contents, especially if you have valuable items. This assists with Travel insurance claims if bags are lost or damaged.
The initial hours in Gangneung shape your trip.
Clear immigration and customs at the airport. Have your passport and K-ETA/visa ready.
If pre-ordered, pick up your SIM card or Wi-Fi egg at the airport counter. Activate your mobile service.
Exchange a small amount of currency or withdraw Korean Won from an ATM at the airport or KTX station.
Locate the tourist information counter at the airport or Gangneung KTX Station for free maps and brochures. Orient yourself using your navigation app (Naver Map/KakaoMap).
Obtain enough local currency for your immediate needs (transport, first meal, T-Money card). Purchase a T-Money card if you did not get one at a major city airport.
Follow your pre-planned route (KTX from ICN/GMP to Gangneung, express bus, or taxi from Yangyang Airport).
Purchase souvenirs in advance, not last minute, to avoid rushing.
If you plan to ship items home, do so at a post office well before your departure date.
For eligible purchases over a certain amount from participating "Tax Free" stores, collect VAT refund receipts.
Process these refunds at designated refund counters at the airport before you check in for your international flight.
Arrive at the airport (ICN, GMP) at least 2-3 hours before your international flight's scheduled departure time.
For domestic flights from Yangyang (YNY) or Gimpo (GMP), 1.5-2 hours is usually sufficient.
Make physical and digital copies of important documents: passport, visa/K-ETA, travel insurance policy, flight itinerary, accommodation bookings.
Plan for a smooth return journey.
Manage your finances before leaving.
Reconfirm airport transportation bookings and check for any traffic alerts on your departure day.
Double-check that you have all essential documents and valuables before leaving your accommodation.
