Incheon Airport Strike Update: Real-Time Departure Experience During Chuseok Holiday
With an airport labor strike scheduled to begin during the Chuseok holiday, many travelers have been anxious about departing from Incheon International Airport. This post shares a real, same-week departure experience from September 21, right before the official holiday rush.
From airport bus conditions to self-baggage drop and currency exchange, this review shows how smooth the departure process actually was and what travelers can realistically expect.
Airport Strike Concerns vs. Reality on September 21
The airport strike was scheduled to start on September 19, right before the Chuseok holiday period. Naturally, there was a lot of concern among travelers planning overseas trips.
However, on September 21, the atmosphere at the airport felt surprisingly calm. Even the airport bus was nearly empty, likely because the official holiday rush had not yet begun.
Without prior knowledge of the strike, it would have been difficult to notice any disruption at all.
6013 Airport Bus from Konkuk University
The journey to the airport started with the 6013 airport bus from Konkuk University Station.
This route remains a convenient option for eastern Seoul, and the ride on this day was comfortable and uncrowded.
Arriving at the airport about three hours before departure felt more than sufficient, especially with travel insurance already arranged for potential delays.
Mobile Check-in and Self Baggage Drop Experience
After completing mobile check-in in advance, the next step was self-baggage drop.
The entire process took less than 10 minutes. Scanning the boarding pass and passport, placing the luggage on the belt, and attaching the baggage tag was straightforward and intuitive.
Self-service options like this clearly reduce waiting time, especially during periods when staffing issues or strikes are a concern.
After a long time away from the airport, it was striking how much smoother the process felt thanks to automation.
Using self-baggage drop felt like a clear advantage rather than a compromise.
Last-Minute Currency Exchange at Hana Bank
Currency exchange was handled on the way to the airport using the Toss app.
While the exchange rate for Thai Baht was not ideal, the ability to apply for exchange on the same day was convenient.
Hana Bank’s counter in Terminal 1 is located very close to the exit area, making it easy to find even when short on time.
Bringing a valid ID is essential for completing the exchange.
Practical Tips for Chuseok Holiday Departures
For travelers departing before the official Chuseok holiday begins, airport congestion may be less severe than expected.
Still, arriving early remains a smart choice, especially as conditions can change quickly closer to peak travel dates.
Completing mobile check-in, seat selection, and entry documentation the day before departure can significantly reduce stress.
If checking luggage, self-baggage drop is strongly recommended for saving time.
With preparation and the right use of self-service tools, even a strike period can feel manageable.
A Thailand travel series will follow soon, sharing more experiences from this trip.
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