Cultural Heritage and Artistic Flair, Korea
The Korean Peninsula stretches southward from the center of the Northeastern coast of Asia, encompassing a land area of approximately 220,000 km² with some 3,400 islands dotting its coastline. Korea is currently the only nation in the world that is still divided into two different political entities. South Korea has a population of 50 million, of which about 10 million live in the capital, Seoul. Over their 5,000-year history, Koreans have achieved an indigenous culture, and their unique cultural properties can be found throughout the peninsula. Koreans have put a high value on learning, and have earned a reputation for diligence and dedication.
Safe and Secure Korea
The 7th ASEM Economic Ministers’ Meeting (ASEM EMM7) was held on 21-22 September 2017 in Seoul, Republic of Korea. The Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) is an intergovernmental process established in 1996 to foster dialogue and cooperation between Asia and Europe. Presently it comprises 53 partners: 30 European and 21 Asian countries, the European Union and the ASEAN Secretariat. ASEM addresses political, economic, social, cultural and educational issues of common interest, in a spirit of mutual respect and equal partnership.
For more information about Korea, please visit the websites below.
– Korea Tourism Organization: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/index.kto
– Seoul Tourism Organization: http://www.seoulwelcome.com/en/
– Seoul Convention Bureau: http://www.miceseoul.com/
Weather
The Congress period is winter in Korea. Winter days are mostly cold with an average temperature of 1°C. Bring long sleeves and thick clothes while visiting during the Congress period.
Furthermore, Korea has four distinct seasons. From September to November, Korea has comfortable temperatures with clear blue skies and spectacular foliage. Korea’s winter is cold and dry but April and May are usually pleasant and warm, attracting many tourists.
Passport and Visa
A valid passport and Korean visa are needed for all visitors to the Republic of Korea. Exemption: Visitors with round-trip tickets from countries that have a special agreement with Korea can stay in Korea up to 30 days or 90 days depending on the type of agreement between the two countries. For more information: http://www.mofat.go.kr
Internet
Internet service is often provided in public places such as airports, train stations, and bus terminals in Korea. PC rooms and internet cafes are also great places to go for and they are mostly in operation 24 hours a day.
Electricity and Voltage
The standard voltage in Korea is 220 volts (60 Hertz, or cycles), and the outlet has two round holes.
SIM Card Purchase (Korean SIM Card)
It is possible to purchase SIM cards from major retail stores, convenience stores or from the website of the respective service providers. This service is cheaper than roaming, and therefore is the preferred communication method for a large number of business travelers.
Insurance
The Organizing Committee will take no responsibility for personal injuries sustained by or loss or damage to property belonging to congress participants, either during or as a result of the congress. It is therefore advised that participants arrange their own personal health, accident and travel insurance.
Currency
The unit of the Korean currency is the Won. Coin denominations are 10, 50, 100 and 500. Banknotes are 1,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 50,000. The exchange rate is approximately USD 1 to KRW 1,123 as of August 2017.
