Flights from Chicago to Seoul (ORD-ICN)
Looking for great deals for flights from Chicago to Seoul? BudgetAir.com offers the lowest fares for both direct and indirect routes to Seoul. Compare 500+ airlines reaching 9000+ destinations worldwide on BudgetAir.com. Seoul Airport (ICN) is also known as Incheon International Airport, and regularly wins Airports Council International Awards for the world's best international airport. It can be found 29 miles outside the city center.
Public transportation, parking, and ride-shares at ICN
Long and short-term parking lots at ICN are connected to the terminals via regular shuttle buses. Those wanting to head into town can also take AREX trains (45 minutes), various bus routes, and taxis. Expect taxis to take around one hour, depending on traffic. Alternatively, car rental is available at Terminal 2 and the airport's Transportation Center.
Practical information for travelers going to Seoul
Most visitors from the USA will not need a valid visa to enter South Korea. All that is required is a valid US passport. This entitles travelers to stay in the country for 90 days without requiring a student or employment visa.
When renting cars in South Korea, visitors will need an International Driving Permit and have held a standard Driving License for one or two years, depending on the type of car being hired. An age limit of 21 and above also applies.
The weather in Seoul tends to be more extreme than in Chicago, with a monsoon season in June and July, and cold winters from December to March. Summer temperatures can be very warm, with average highs of 84°F degrees in August.
Top travel tips
Peak travel season usually arrives in June and August. However, April and May, as well as September and October are the ideal time to visit. Both periods see warm, generally dry weather and crowds won't be anywhere near as large as during peak vacation season.
The time difference can be an issue for some visitors. Seoul is 15 hours ahead of Chicago, so change any clocks or watches before arrival. Korean is also the default language everywhere in Seoul. Many locals will speak some English, but travelers shouldn't expect this, so learning a few words of Korean will help.
Korea's currency is the South Korean won (KRW). Exchanging some cash is advisable, but almost everywhere accepts credit cards. Getting around is made much easier with a rechargeable T-Travel card, which delivers discounts compared to credit cards and cash.
What to see in Seoul
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Seoul has five major palace complexes, but Gyeongbokgung is the most impressive. The home of the Joseon emperors for 600 years, it was built in 1395, and has a very special status for South Koreans. Don't miss the National Folk Museum in the grounds, and turn up in a hanbok costume for free entry.
Visit a jjimjilbang
Everyone who visits Seoul should spend some time at a jjimjilbang. These traditional bathhouses come complete with saunas and massage tables, where customers can experience bracing "seshin" rubs, laze around in heated pools, or even indulge in karaoke at some establishments.
Take tea at Bukcheon Hanok
Next door to Gyeongbokgung, Bukcheon Hanok is a charming neighborhood that seems to have been missed by history. It's full of ancient hanok homes, many of which serve rejuvenating jujube teas and delicious steamed pumpkin cakes. The Craft Center is also a great place to stock up on souvenirs, or learn some hanji paper crafting skills.
