Cheongju-si North Chungcheong, South Korea Travel Guide
Cheongju International Airport (CJJ) is the main gateway for the metropolis. Incheon International Airport (ICN) is South Korea's largest international gateway, near Seoul. Gimpo International Airport (GMP), closer to Seoul, handles domestic and regional international routes.
Direct flights to CJJ from North America, Europe, or Australia are not available. CJJ's routes to other countries are limited. ICN has direct flights from nearly all major global hubs. International flight prices to ICN are generally higher during peak travel seasons (spring, autumn, and major summer holidays). Dollar Flight Club for deals.
Most non-stop and convenient: Express intercity buses from ICN to Cheongju Intercity Bus Terminal (2.5-3 hours).
AREX to Seoul Station, KTX to Osong Station, then local bus/taxi to Cheongju (2-3 hours total).
Taxi from CJJ to Cheongju city center: 20-30 minutes, ₩15,000-₩25,000.
Local buses connect the airport to the city center (30-60 min, inexpensive). Taxis are available (20-30 min, ₩15,000-₩25,000).
Direct intercity bus is the most practical (2.5-3 hours, ₩20,000-₩25,000). KTX via Osong Station is an option but longer and pricier.
Direct intercity buses (approx. 2 hours). KTX via Seoul Station and Osong is an alternative.
Osong Station (오송역), west of Cheongju, is a major KTX hub. High-speed KTX trains connect Seoul to Osong in 40-50 minutes. From Osong, local buses and taxis reach Cheongju city center (20-30 minutes).
Cheongju Intercity Bus Terminal (청주시외버스터미널) is the main hub for intercity and express buses. South Korea's bus network is comprehensive, reaching Cheongju from most major cities. Companies like Korex, Kumho Express, and Dongbu Express operate routes. Buses are clean and comfortable; premium possibilities have wider seats.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) with your valid national driver's license is needed. Road infrastructure is excellent. Traffic can be heavy during rush hours or holidays. A GPS setup with Korean maps (Naver Map or KakaoMap) is important. Rental cars often come with built-in English GPS. Toll roads are common; cash or Hi-Pass card options are present.
Roads are excellent, well-maintained, and well-lit. Drivers can be assertive; motorcyclists weave through traffic. Defensive driving is important. Speed limits are strictly enforced. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. Drunk driving laws are strict with severe penalties.
Cheongju is a city not on the coast. Sea or river arrivals are not relevant for reaching the city directly. No ferry services or cruise ports are applicable for Cheongju-si.
Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable for Cheongju-si. Connections to land transportation from sea/river points are not a part of Cheongju travel planning.
Air travel through Incheon or Cheongju International Airports.
Intercity and express buses from major Korean cities.
KTX to Osong Station, then short transfer to Cheongju.
Airport taxes and fees are typically included in your airfare. You generally pay no separate exit fees upon departure. For international flights from ICN/GMP, plan to arrive at the airport at least 2.5-3 hours before departure. Domestic flights from CJJ require 1-1.5 hours advance arrival.
International travel involves check-in, baggage drop, security screening, and immigration control. Domestic flights or land travel usually require only check-in (if needed) and security (for flights). Double-check your flight or bus/train schedule the day before departure. Allow extra time for travel to the airport or station during peak hours or holidays.
Complete online check-in where possible to save time at the airport.
Confirm baggage weight and size restrictions with your airline.
Ensure passport, boarding pass, and any needed visas are accessible.
For transfers from ICN or GMP, the direct intercity bus is the most practical and cost-effective method to reach Cheongju.
