Incheon Airport Strike: Key Checkpoints for Travelers During Chuseok Holiday
During the 2025 Chuseok holiday period, a labor union strike at Incheon International Airport has significantly increased stress for departing and arriving travelers. Real passenger experiences point to longer waiting times, baggage delays, and transportation difficulties.
This article organizes what travelers are actually facing at the airport, from arrival and departure procedures to transportation and insurance preparation, helping you plan realistically and reduce uncertainty.
Incheon Airport Strike: What Arriving Passengers Are Experiencing
Travelers arriving at Incheon International Airport, especially Terminal 2, report that baggage claim is taking much longer than usual. In many cases, waiting times have increased by 30 minutes to over an hour.
Passengers transferring between Terminal 2 and Terminal 1 are advised to confirm their transfer routes in advance, as congestion and staffing shortages are slowing movement between terminals.
Departure Delays During Chuseok Peak Season
The overlap of the Chuseok holiday rush and ongoing strike action is causing extended lines at airline check-in counters and security screening areas.
Many recent travelers recommend arriving at the airport at least five hours before departure to avoid missing flights, especially for international routes.
Using Smart Pass and Fast Track Services
Passengers registered for Smart Pass have been able to shorten immigration and screening times significantly compared to general lines.
For those without Smart Pass, the paid Fast Track service is being actively used as a time-saving option during peak congestion at security checkpoints.
Airport Transportation Challenges and Reservations
Due to the combined impact of the holiday season and strike, demand for airport taxis and limousine buses has surged sharply.
Early morning departures are particularly affected, with many travelers reporting difficulty securing transportation without advance reservations.
Why Travel Insurance Matters More Than Ever
With an increased risk of flight delays and cancellations, travel insurance has become a critical safeguard for travelers during this period.
Policies that include coverage for delayed or lost baggage are especially important, as luggage handling delays are one of the most common issues reported.
Popular Overseas Travel Trends This Chuseok
This holiday season, short-haul international destinations such as Japan, Vietnam, and Qingdao in China are seeing the highest demand among Korean travelers.
Major routes operated by Korean Air and Asiana Airlines are already sold out on many dates, making last-minute alternative bookings extremely difficult.
Practical Tips for Navigating the Current Situation
Departure delays: Plan to arrive at the airport at least five hours early and register for Smart Pass whenever possible.
Baggage delays: Keep essential items in your carry-on luggage and ensure your insurance covers delayed baggage.
Traffic congestion: Pre-book taxis or airport limousine buses to avoid last-minute transportation issues.
Arrival waiting times: Check terminal layouts and transfer routes between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 before arrival.
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