Riding Pointers in Korea
 

We Koreans are one of the worst drivers in the world, I am shamed to say ,,
Our drivers test system is a farce.
For those, who are already in the country or arriving soon ,, please read following ,,,
1) At four way stop lights ,, always count 1,2,3 then take a good look left and right before taking off,, even though the light is green in your favor ,,,
2) If you are in the center lane always be aware of some schmuck making a U-Turn in front of you,,
3) Seoul or Busan ,, our streets are a nation of U-Turns ,, due to bad city planning,, Many times you have to make a U-Turn to go where you want to go ,, and it is clearly marked,,,
I have seen this in Poland,Spain and Croatia ,, sucks ,,
4) YOU can not ride on the national free ways , so call autobahn or motorway,,, there also are numerous car only local express ways ,, this you can ride with heart's content ,, cops will not bother ,, especially with foreign license...
5) Right after lunch hour and after 8PM, on rural roads,,, look for drunks ,, people drink and drive,, although it is getting better,, I too am guilty of this
6) Lock your bikes tight ,, young school kids think it is funny to rip off bikes, for a joy ride,, and all they get is a slap on the wrist by police,,,, 14 year old son of my friend, who is a famous doctor stoled a scooter last year,, funny wealthier neighborhood ,, more frequent.
7) Always be aware of other bikes ,, making deliveries and couriers sneaking up right behind you ,,
8) Frigging taxis will cut right in front of you to rush for the passenger on the curb,, they are bike killers ,,
9) Bus ,, stay away from buses ,, they are under heavy time schedule and no idea, what they will do ,,
10) White lining is allowed in Korea for bikes ,, I also use bus lanes a lot, when there is a heavy traffic.
11) During rainy season ,, on the hills ,, gravel gets washed down and many of curves are covered with this ,, be careful ,,
12) On winding road ,, look for cars that cross the center lane ,, Recently riding in Croatia along the coast ,, I had many frightening experience ,,

For Those Travelling in Korea
 

Having met riders coming over from Vlad, recently,,, and others, who told me that they will be arriving soon,,, few pointers about Korea.
Times have changed,,,
1) 60% of age group 14 to 30 speaks English. 30% of age 30 - 60 speaks English. Even in the remotest villages, you will find native English speakers working as teachers. Usual compensation is USD 2,500 a month plus housing and once a year paid vacation to their home. Learning English is a government sponsored necessity for good colleges and jobs.
You can find them in any elementary, jr or high school.
2) Almost 10% of Korean population are foreigners now. Gaining citizenship for Korea is very easy compare to EEC, USA and especially Japan. This is due to the shortage of labor force and fewer female populace in the country side. Imported brides.
3) Korea is 11th largest economy in the world,, cities are expensive. Seoul is 3 - 4Th most expensive city according to Forbes,, due to recent FTA with EEC,,, European goods have come down 15% in prices, but still almost double the price of Europe,, country side is much cheaper and a decent Korean meal can be had for USD 5-10. But if you miss food from back home,, we have Italian,French, Mexican, German, US and many other chefs from different countries, with own restaurants in Seoul and Bu-San.
4) Motels are every where but depending on the area, many of these are love motels and you have to check out at 11AM and check in after 7PM for USD 30 - 60 a night,, since they rent the rooms out by the hour. The 5 star hotels in Seoul can be had between USD 180 - 260 a night ,,
Life in Korea: Korea hotels, travel, tours | culture, language, information, shopping, and communities in South Korea
5) High octane gas,,only in big cities, in the country side,, expect 91 all the way. But never had a problem with my EFI engine.
BMW or Harley parts and labor are expensive, others much cheaper and can be fixed any where.
BMW Motorrad Seoul. The petrol is USD 1.6 - 2 a liter.
6) Cities I like the most,,, Seoul, Bu-San, Gyung-Ju and Jun-Ju. The most beautiful riding by mention is at Gang Won province, Junra Nam Do province, Gyung Sang Buk Do province. Try to stay away from Inchon,, go only when you have to ship your bike out by sea ,, the most polluted and most ugly city in Korea. The air port is great,, been voted best airport in the world for the last 4 years and you by-pass the city,,out to the sea, some 40KM.
7) Do not have accidents,, New law, many of the times the accident becomes a criminal/police matter not a civil matter. In case of personal injury, you have to compensate other party, even if you have insurance. Only insurance you can get is third party liability and your personal injury. No damage clause for your bikes.

Lastly, I will add more to this list as time goes on,, meanwhile, I have been an officer of Korean HOG group and currently member of other biker's group and we have bikers in every corner of Korea,, if any of you have an emergency, any where in Korea ,, let us know ,, we can send our members to assist you..

Useful Links About Korea
 

Notable Historical Attractions
Visitkorea | Official Korea Tourism Organization

Google Map of Korea
korean map in english - Google Maps

Temple Stays ,, a Buddhist Experience
Korea Temple Stay | Official Korea Tourism Organization

Insa Dong, in Seoul
Official Site of Korea Tourism Org.: Insa-dong

Sam Chung Dong Old Town
http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/...out&cid=995817

Palaces of Seoul
Official Site of Korea Tourism Org.: Korean Palaces, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace

Guest Houses
Google

Famous Mountains
http://www.korea.net/detail.do?guid=28306

This writer's recommendation of must see
Bulguksa Temple near Gyung-Ju, famous temple with grotto
Gyung Ju city proper with many cultural relics
Junju Traditional Village with great cuisine
Seorak Mountain on the way to Dong Hae
Secret Garden Palace in Seoul
O Dae San mountain with temple
Nam Hae region (Southern Coastal Road)
Dong Hae to Seoul via Yang Pyung ( Dae Gwan Ryung Pass or Jin Bu Ryung Pass)

Great information, Thank you! :thumbup:

Korea Transit
 

So far this year,, that I know of ,,
Clyde and Robert came from Vlad, in June ,, An Aussie flew in and got on the DBS Ferry straight away, in July,,, A Yank came also from Vlad, with a BMW ,,,, did not meet him ,,just sent some info along ,, a Yank got on DBS in July, for Vlad,, Two German and an Austrian rider is due here soon but only by flight, since they are not allowed to drive German registered bike ,,
Eight Koreans left for Vlad in June and July ,,and are doing Siberia to Moscow and some to Kazak and Turkey ,, Two are in northern India on separate ride,, Six did Laos,, Another 7 did Tibet ,,, most of them bought or rented bikes from local shops or guide company. I understand that our Korean riders have met some of the HUBB riders, in Mongolia, India and Kazik. Five rode their Harleys to Ulan Ude and the lake and back, with a support truck,,,
I did the USA and Europe leaving from the Port of Inchon and returning by air freight from Frankfurt to ICN via DHL.
Most of the anglo riders are or were in contact with Wendy Choi.

Be safe and have a great ride ,, as we unwind 2011 ,,transiting through Korea, to where ever you may be heading.
:clap:

Hey Joe
thanks for the info. I have ridden across Korea twice, in 06 on an Indian & in 09 on an old Harley chopper.
Had a great time both trips, altho finding my way from Busan to Seoul on the chopper with no gps & not able to ride on the hiways took longer than planned (ok, I did cheat a couple times.... :)
It seems alot of people opt to ship their bike by truck to/from the port to Seoul, what a shame. Its a great country to ride in, many nice people, and great scenery. I will look forward to visiting again one day

this summer, I saw the group from KR when I was in Siberia, but they were going the other way, & didnt stop, so I didnt get to talk to them

Doug

Hey Doug ,,
 

Nice to hear from you ,, I've met some one ,, who said his uncle did the trip on a Harley,, could this be you?
Awesome job ,, of doing it on an Indian and a chopper ,, what's wrong with plain Harley?
Those guys from Korea ,, are friends of mine ,, some six with a passenger car in the front and a truck at the rear,,, they went as far as Ulan Ude and Baikal ,, one had a Springer Heritage ,, with monkey bar,,,

Well if you are in Korea ,, let me know ,, I will ride with you and will bring along HOG heads,,,
Joe

CNN pick of Seoul ,, with punt.
 

Work in Korea
 

There are no work, in Korea for those transiting,, period ,, not even a dish washing job.
Manual laborers make USD 100 a day with lunch ,, that is from 8AM to 6PM,, Gulag work,, but that too is on stand by basis, at a local manpower office.

If you are dire and need help ,, our bike club can make you a loan,until you get back home.

Transit Korea
 

You should not have any problem ,, bringing in your bike, to Korea, on temporary permit,,, for transit, including German registered bikes and Swiss license holders.
Make sure to bring all your paper work for the bike and international driving license. Make several copies of all your documents (passports, photos, license, registration,, insurance,, shipping docs) in advance as you will be asked at many points.
Find out what papers are needed from your side.
You will need to hire a customs agent,, HUBB uses Wendy Choi "wendychoi2(at)gmail.com" her mobile is +82 (0)10-6213-3961.
She normally charges USD 100, for the clearance. She can also book a ferry for you,, but some how you have to pay her in advance for the ferry part,, as July - August ,, Russians are coming down en masse to enjoy Korean summer. So you need to make early booking. http://www.dbsferry.com/main/main.asp to Vladivostok ( Customs Clear three days)
http://stenadaea.com/passenger/passenger_schedule.asp for Zarubino ( customs clear in two hours)

If you bring the bike by air.. you will arrive at the ICN cargo terminal,, which case you will have to take a ferry from the airport terminal, which is an island,,to city of Inchon,, a real pain in the butt,, or break the law and make a run for the Gimpo airport, where you can get off the motorway...(Make sure you run through the HiPass auto pay gates not the manual pay window. The penalty is USD 300 and a police arrest, so you have to show up for a court date. Or you can play dumb and dumber,, I am on my way to Russia etc)
Korean cops and customs guys have a chip on their shoulder ,, English language,, cultural ,, if you Kow Tow well as a white man,, doors will open fast.

If you are coming by sea,, just drive off the docks to local road and ride at your leisure.

Getting visas for most of the Silk Road countries takes three days, in Korea and their respective embassies are all here,, for Russia ,, only at the country of your residence. Mongolia is visa free for most of the OECD nationals.

Just because you are arriving and embarking on a great trip ,, don't think you are Edmund Hilary ,, many have done this trip and so have many Korean riders,,, act humble and don't take advantage of peoples hospitality,, and you will be welcomed every where.

Inchon Airport Ferry
 

The small ferry from ICN ,, (Wol Jung Do) to Incheon (Wol Mi Do )
Is back on line. It was closed for lack of passenger for a while, due to the new bridge going to In Cheon direct. The purpose of this ferry is because,, Korea has a freak law,, no bikes on motorways, set by President Park in 70s,, when he saw bunch of riders going nuts)
Boat leaves every 30 minutes ,, and the cost is minimal.
Small ferry to Wolmido Island is the purple line at the bottom,, pretty much same as the new bridge shown as purple line.
Ferry pronounced as PERRY in Korean. (Remember,, r and l,, f and p sound problems by Asians) 5 minutes from the air cargo terminal. Last ferry leaves ICN (In Cheon International Airport) around 6PM,, meaning you should have the box dismantles before 5PM.
To get to the ICN , airport limos at major corners and hotels, all over Seoul,, ca USD 24 or take the subway out from Seoul National Train station (서울역) or from Gang Nam Station (Gang Nam Style,, south of Seoul, over the Han River) Plan a good two hours for the ride. AT ICN,,from the main passenger terminal,, free shuttle buses will take you to the cargo terminal and other parking areas. When in Seoul,, never take the big black van taxis or black taxis. These are called tourist taxis, The fare costs 50% more than normal blue, grey ,, yellow taxis and they often rip you off on the fare. One Japanese paid USD 300 for going 20 KMs ,, Now days Chinese are getting ripped off. Any problems just call the cops.
Or if you have the balls ,, take the top purple line,, the express way,, staying away from electronic pay gate,, head out to Gimpo. RIde is only 20 minutes on the bike,, and even if you are caught,, you will only get a slap on the wrist. Tell them you are on an epic journey to Russia. I do it all the time.
Make the run for the highway to Gimpo! All you get is a warning if caught!

DBS Getting Crowded Already
 

Exciting,, booked DBS Ferry for Vlad on 17/06/2012 ,,

I am told already three Anglos booked,, four so far with me,, six more Korean HUBBers are leaving same time,, though they have not booked.

Two Korean scooter girls and Neo will leave UK heading other way ,, so we should all meet some where around UFA or Samara ,,

Time to ride folks! Yiiii Haaaa !

Bike hire in S Korea
 

Hello
Can anyone supply any information re bike hire for a week in South Korea
I appreciate your advise
richard wolters

Bike Hire
 

No major rental companies will rent to foreign riders ,, due to recovery loss and no insurance exists that will cover the bike it self ,, only the third party and medical.
I did arrange a rental from a bike shop I use for a Brit last year ,, but he had to leave a credit card deposit for the amount of the bike cost. Insurance is USD 40 for a month. If you are willing to put a deposit,, I can arrange it for you.
The rental cost for a 250CC is around 40 USD a day ,,
This is possible, only because my mech has over 200 bikes in his shop.

Korean Riders Ready to Assist HUBB Travelers in Korea
 

Those,, who are transiting Korea ,,
Who needs emergency assistance or plain friendship. We have prepared a list of volunteers in strategic locations of Korea. They all speak ENGLISH + other languages and ready to help.
Just let us know.
seouljoe(at)seouljoe.com
Mobile +82 10 4765 4984

Eukor quote Pyung Taek to Liverno
 

Nice thing about RO-RO ,, no box needed ,,
What is cool ,, they also go to Singapore ( Where you can hitch to Australasia) Malaysia ,, Middle East ,,
Mediterranean and North Europe, including Southhampton.

Lee Dong Shin <dslee(at)eukor.com> is your man for the rates.
Transit to USA takes about 12 days ,, to Europe is twice longer,, the distance plus ,, the more number of calling ports,, then the pirates .. gee

Looks ,, USD 650 for the lines ,, USD 150 for export documentation ,, USD 150 for Liverno CC ,, USD 1,000 in total ,, considering ,, DBS Dong Hae to Vladivostok is almost USD 1,000 ,, this is cheap.
Flight from Seoul to Milano on Gulf air via Dubai ,, got a quote of USD 980.

-------- Original Message --------
Subject: RE: Harley Davidson to Liverno
Date: Fri, 13 Apr 2012 00:00:44 +0000
From: dslee(x)eukor.com
To: 'Sir Yun-Soo PARK'
CC: Noh Yoong Ho >, Choi Sung Won , Yun In Sik


안녕하세요,

견적 문의 감사드리며, 하기 운임 및 서비스 안 참조 부탁 드립니다.
아직 선명이 확정되지 않아, 선적 여부 알려주시면 추후에 통보 드리겠습니다.

대상선 Vessel: TBN (To Be Named - shipping term for vessel designation)
선적항 Port of Loading: 평택 (4월말 ~ 5월초 경) Pyung Taek end of April-Early May
양하항 Port of Dest:inat ion Livorno, Italy
Transit Time : 30~35 days Transit (Long way to Europe,,)
화물 Cargo : Used Motorbike 1대 ( CBM)
운임 Fare : USD 150 w/m + BAF 41.25% (Validity until May 2012) Per ton or 1 cubic meter
– FLT at both ramp ends
* Subject to space and schedule availability

감사합니다.


유코 유럽팀 / 이동신 드림
Tel : 02)3468-5223
메일 : dslee(x)eukor.com

Shipping Terminology
 

When contacting ,, try to use following format ,, to make it easier for them to understand your requirement.

Shipper / Consignee ( Your Name or Your Forwarder)
COMM/ commodity ,, 2006 Harley Road King ( For tariff by lines and customs)
ETD / Estimated Time of Departure
ETA / Estimated Time of Arrival
POL/ Port of Loading
POD/ Port of Destination
W/M / Weight and Measure , give the bike weight ,, length x height x width. Per one ton or one cubic meter.
Shipping lines will use, whichever is greater for freight.
BAF/ Bunker Added Fuel charge.

Then you can add TOS = terms of shipping ,, FOB, CNF or CIF ,,
Freight to be prepaid etc ,, including insurance ,,

Korean Bath
 

Sxxt ,, didn't think about taking some of you to a Korean bath,, and have body scrubbers take off that Siberian dirt out of you ,,
Next time you are in Korea ,, I will definitely take you to one ,,,
It's for both men and women,,

You go in ,, take a shower ,, soak in the hot tub then cold ,, hot ,, cold again ,, then a steam sauna ,, get all the grime soaked ,, then you lay buck naked ,, a professional scrubber will take off all that dirt then will soap you. All for USD 20 for men ,, USD 40 for women ,, women higher because it takes them twice longer and you get cream massage after.

;)

Korea Riders
 

One has left Korea 31/03/12 ,, stuck in Vlad for 4 days ,, went through snow and ice ,, arrived Moscow a week ago. Planning heading south down to Ukraine or Turkey.

Another rider arrived in UK two weeks ago by flight ,, bought a Uk registered bike ,, now traveling there. He will head back to Korea via Russia.

A couple left for Vlad last Sunday 13/05/12,, stuck again till Thursday for the customs clearance. Heading out to Moscow.

Neo is in Spain ,, told him he must see Granada, Seville, Cadiz , then head down to Morocco from Tarifa. After catch a ferry to Italy is the plan.

I would like a list of western bikers arriving in Korea this year and the approximate dates,, so I can have my brothers keep an eye out for you.
Simply list your details here.

A dialogue with a HUBBer, who is heading to Korea
 

RXXX ,,
I've decided to go via Vladivostok ,, I arrive there on June 18th. So I imagine we can meet in Russia some where.
When you arrive from Vladivostok to Dong Hae ,, Masan is only 300KM (WW Loading Port),, you can do it slowly in one day or you can go west and see Seoul.
If you look at the North Asia board under Riding Pointers in Korea. On the second page I have listed all our members by city or region and they are well spread out.
When you let me know when you will be in Korea ,, I will have friends look out for you.
Most of the motels are betweed USD 25 to 45 a night ,, food is USD 6 - 10 per person and you will eat well.
There are tons of 7-11s , Family Mart Kiosks for snacks, sandwiches , and tons of restaurants as well as McDonald's,, Burger Kings ,, Domino and Godfather Pizzas ,, even in small villages.
Remember you can not ride freeways,, must stay on the netional roads. Also there are no tolls for bikes when you go through tunnels etc, on the national road.
Lastly ,, you must try a traditional Korean bath or steam sauna,, and get a body scrub!

PS. when you arrive in Long Beach on Wallenius ,, your agent will charge you stiff stevedoring fees. Tell them that you will pick up the bike at the WW port office. Do not have your forwarder pick up the bike and deliver it to their office. Last time schmucks tried to pull USD 700 from me.

See you on the road !
Safe journey !

Appreciated
 

Joe,
Thanks for all your effort in producing this information. Much appreciated.

We are looking into routing through Singapore - Korea - Vlad and Russia - home to the UK next year.

Regards

Paul

thanks Joe. See you in Russia.
have a safe trip - Romek

China - Korea - Japan Ferries
 

Ferry China to Korea
Liguan (400KM North of Shanghai) to Incheon
연운항훼리(주)

Tianjin, China to Incheon, Korea
'중국여행의 모든것' 진 천 훼 리에 오신것을 환영합니다.
They will sail again from 14/03/2012 ship under maintenance now.
[url=http://www.jinchon.cn/]

Quingdao to Incheon
http://www.weidong.com/

Yingkou to Incheon (way up north in China)
http://www.yingkouferry.com/

To Japan
Busan, Korea to Osaka, Japan (18 long hours)
http://www.panstar.co.kr/passenger/ferry/renewal.asp

Busan to Shimonoseki ..
http://www.kampuferry.co.jp/

Busan to Shimonoseki
http://www.pukwan.co.kr/pukwan/index.html ,, nice one

Jetfoil to Fukuoka 3 hours
http://www.mirejet.com/

I am looking to have a bike shipped from SK to Thailand (coming from Vladivostok) August/September.

Best bets?

SK to Thai
 

The best bet is Ro-Ro if schedule permits.
Eukor Europe Team / D.S. Lee
Tel: 02)3468-5223
Seoul Head Office (Loads out of Pyung Taek Harbour)
dslee@eukor.com
www.eukor.com

If by container as a shared cargo (LCL = Less Than Contaoner LOAD) call this forwarder. You go out with household, electronics, etc

Wendy or ,,

KOREA EXPRESS
YEONG SEOK, OK / Staff
International Sales Team
okys@korex.co.kr
Busan Branch
#1211-1, Choryang-Dong, Dong-gu, Busan 601-714, Korea
TEL : 82-51-719-5053
FAX : 82-51-442-3598
Busan or Incheon Harbour

Both options should be under USD 1,000 including the export documentation on RO-RO only,, Call Wendy Choi to do the PAPERWORK ,,, negotiate the freight and build a box.

Transit should be less about two weeks as they call on Shanghai, Hong Kong etc

Thanks for that. Will my complete lack of a language other than English be a hinderance?

LOL ,, no !

Again thanks! Also while I am at it, the ferry from Vlad to Sth Korea, how long in advance do you need to book (or can you just roll up).

Their doesn't seem any recent HUBB posts on people going that way, mostly the other way.

Craig i was stuck in Vlad for a month last year , part of our ritual was to watch this ferry come and go ( we were heading west) The ferry is very small compared to European standards and was always full, they usually managed to squeeze in a bike or two but the accomodation is very limited.
There is also a pacific conference this year in August September in Vlad, so i would assume Hotels will be expensive and hard to find and also the ferry will be running a full load. my advice is book as early as you can

Thanks for that! The very information I needed to know.

Bushman UK is absolutely right. Also heavy traffic as Russians come down to Korea for the summer vacance.
Looks you can book the DBS on this site.
DBS Ferry | Book DBS Cruise Ferries | Timetable, Offers, Reviews & Routes | AFerry.co.uk
http://stenadaea.com/passenger/passenger_schedule.asp
For my trip outbound,, they've quoted me USD 600 for my bike 1,500CC and USD 200 for shared cabin, first class.

Martin's report last year.
http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...divostok-57654

If that UK site does not work. I guess,, you can ask Yuri Melinkov a favour, to book, since there is no deposit needed.

Hey Souljoe - new member here, but longtime lurker. I live in Los Angeles and was hoping to ship my ride out to Korea sometime this July to cruise the country for a month. Do you have any suggestions on shipping companies from Los Angeles to Pusan/Incheon? Thanks!

Contact Korea Express LA,, and have Korea Express Busan do the inbound.
KOREA EXPRESS - Global Network - KOREA EXPRESS U.S.A. INC.

Or contact Hanjin LA do same as above.
https://www.hanjin.com/hanjin/CUP_HO...?sessLocale=en


Or contact the shipping company a RO-RO carrier direct. Wallenius Line.
http://www.2wglobal.com/www/wep//

Mobile phone recomendations
 

Hi joe,

Any recomendations on which mobile carrier to use when we hit your shores?

Craig

[QUOTE=craig.iedema;388011]Hi joe,

Any recomendations on which mobile carrier to use when we hit your shores?

KT Korea TELECOMM or SKT will give you nation wide wi-fi and 3G,

If you arrive Korea before 12 of of Aug. Din din and a Korean bath is on me.
Head straight west to Yang Pyeung from Dong Hae..also great clean motel for 30 bucks a night.
Also most of the motels have a pc and internet, in the room, free.

Those arriving by air,, simply go to a kiosk at the terminal..such as LG or 7/11 and ask for a Korean chip. Cost is USD 10 or so.

Road signs in Korea have English subtitles below, for major towns.
All the graphic signs universal as in Europe or USA.
OSM on smartphone or Zumo works well in Korea. Too many new roads happening here all the time. Watch the highway numbers and town names.
For non Koreans ,, Navigator Free at smart phone app store gives you a non data free GPS navigation in English, with good OSM maps.

Hi Joe

We arrived in Donghae yesterday and will be spending maybe 4-5 weeks in Korea before shipping to USA. We've bought a map and a guy in an outdoor shop, who is also a biker, is going to give us some good routes.
We're riding an old BWM outfit with the chair on the 'wrong' side so are easy to spot. If you see us, give us a wave.
We're leaving Donghae tomorrow and are heading to the National Park near here to do some camping first.

Cheers

Iain

Hey guys ,,
I am five hours from you ,,,
If you have any problem call Lighthouse Keeper in Korean Deung Dae Jigi mobile 010-4365-3000. He is 30 minutes from you a Korean HUBBer ,, he also has a camp site at Mt. Sorak, with a full upright tent,, you can stay for free. He also has a mobile company if you need a Korean chip. Other Korean tel numbers mentioned further up can assist you.
I am off to Sydney on next week Tuesday for a wedding and will be back on 22ND. Have a great trip here. If you want to mingle with Korean HUBBers ,, let me know,,

Hi there we have a bike with a stuffed clutch that I am still hopefully going to get on he ferry. Is hire of a small tray truck is possible in SK to transport it around?

Yes ,,

http://blog.naver.com/PostView.nhn?b...tTypeCall=true


Also if you hire a local repair shop,, they will transport it for free or arrange a transport for you. Bike shops are all over ,, just stop any one road , or a cop and ask. Get hold of Iain he is already in contact with my guys in Korea.

Well we will see SK, but the bike won't.

What us the easiest way to get from Dong Hae to Seoul?

Seouljoe you have a great thread here. STICKY MATERIAL.

I hope to fly my KLR to Inchon from Vancouver the end of May.Nothing set yet.I am undecided on riding in Korea or bonded truck to the ferry to start trip in Russia.I would like to ride some in Korea. SeanF did a similar route a couple years ago.He said he liked Korea.But he would skip it next time.The time,money and paper work were more than he liked.Could you give me an idea what the time,money and paper work would be like-if you know?

Another thing I am unclear about.There used to be another ferry port that was south of Vladivostok.It was closed.But I heard it had opened again.If it is open,I would prefer going that route. Do you know if it is "truth or fiction?"

Thanks
Doug

From Incheon AP... read my earlier post ..how to avoid express way to merge into the local traffic...
Two post up. I have clearly stated that new ferry will go to Zarubino... from Sok Cho.

Only the DBS operates between Donghae and Vladivostok, as of June 26, 2014
http://www.dbsferry.com/eng/02_ticket/ticket03.asp


If you go to Zarubino,, you save hundreds of dollars,, 1) 2 - 3 hours to clear the bike, No 3 day waiting like Vladivostok,, hotels,, food ,, boredom ,, Yuri's fee of 2 - 300 bucks.
Zarubino,, you just pay stevedoring charges,, some customs stamp fees,, buy an insurance etc. Then be in Vladivostok in 3 hours or so to prepare for the next long haul to Khabarovsk,,, 700KM.

For Korea,, you will pay ca usd 100 for clearance..no tax no carnet...
Consider about usd 100 for motel..food and gas per diem. usd 3000 if you go to a geisha house.
Biased I am... Korea has one of the most safe and beautiful biking road. May is the perfect time to ride. You can reach either Sok Cho or Dong Hae in a day.
Smart phone with OSM based Navigator Free app will give you free GPS navigation ..

[QUOTE=seouljoe;413867]From Incheon AP... read my earlier post ..how to avoid express way to merge into the local traffic...
Two post up. I have clearly stated that new ferry will go to Zarubino...
You will pay ca usd 100 for clearance..no tax no carnet...
Consider about usd 100 for motel..food and gas. usd 3000 if you go to a geisha house.
Biased I am... Korea has one of the most safe and beautiful biking road. QUOTE]

I will contact Wendy.
I read all of this thread.I still was still unclear about the ferry.I did not understand what you meant by "picking up the old belly up Dong Chun Ferry route."

Thanks,
Doug

Doug
 

Dongchun was the first ferry that ran Sokcho - Zarubino.. went into receivership in early 2011..
DBS started a new service Donghae - Vlad...
Trade between Eastern Russia and Korea increasing so much.. Dae Ah had joined in now.
You will be amazed at the number of Russians ..even school kids in hundreds coming here..old Hyundais going north .. Korean tourists..

Also..Andy and Paul.
April - June... always room on the ferry ..July - August..you will need to book early... use Yuri from Russia.. Wendy from Korea.
Korean riders will all use Zarubino now.. time and cost.

Just spoke to Dae Ah head office.
First sailing 19.03.2013... it will hit all the news wire soon.

Great info Seouljoe. We'll be in South Korea the last week of May, looking to cross into Russia with our bike on the 2nd or 3rd of June. Will look into the new ferry as ASAP!

A great reportage on biking Korea
 

Two Wheel Trekker | South Korea
:scooter:

Hi Joe,
Big Kudo to you for hard work on keeping riders informed of S. Korea.

Have you or your friends shipped bike to another Asia country (Laos/Thai/etc)? If yes, what kind of expense is expected? Am planning to ride thru Russia and take ferry to Korea then if budget permit maybe ship to another Asia country for a short and quick tour. I imagine Carnet is needed.

Again, thanks for many hard work keeping us update and this reply will confirm my subscribe to your informative thread.

Shipping from Korea to ASEAN countries
 

[QUOTE=wkheathjr;416581]Hi Joe,
Big Kudo to you for hard work on keeping riders informed of S. Korea.

Have you or your friends shipped bike to another Asia country (Laos/Thai/etc)? If yes, what kind of expense is expected? Am planning to ride thru Russia and take ferry to Korea then if budget permit maybe ship to another Asia country for a short and quick tour. I imagine Carnet is needed.
Unquote)

Shipping to ASEAN including Australisia is easy.. We have good size Korean communities in all of those countries and regular shipments of all sorts of commodities take place, on daily basis and freight is frequent and cheap. Have Wendy Choi hook you up with household movers.
Household meaning ,, your bike goes out as a LCL (Less Than Container Load).. mixed with other cargo belonging to others,, other words,, many people are sharing one container... this brings down the freight to the cheap. Normal charges are 65 - 80 USD per CBM (Cubic Meter or Weight Ton) ,, you will have to pay for the crating of the bike. Call Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, BMW or Harley dealers in Korea,, Seoul, Dae Gu and Busan ,,, and ask for a FREE pallet. 99% they will oblige ,, just beause of our nature. You will need to pay for the transport of the pallet. (Benefit of the pallet- light,, no crating ,, you drive onto the pallet,, tie the bike down, Cover with original carboard top.) You save hundreds. ;)
Yes you will need carnet for all of those countries. :scooter:

New Ferry from Sokcho to Zarubino
 

This ferry closed operation as of June 26, 2014
Only the DBS operates between Donghae and Vladivostok
http://www.dbsferry.com/eng/02_ticket/ticket03.asp



Staena Daena
http://stenadaea.com/eng/main.asp

USD 4- 600 for the bike,, USD 50 -200 for pasenger.
Menu is in English,,

Avoid Vladivostok ,, you will be stuck for three days, before you see your bike. Too much freight volume, in that port.
Zarubino ,, you breeze through.

I have looked and looked for info about the Stena Daea Lines rates and schedule.All I think I have found is they leave S. Korea on Wednesday.Can't find any other info.I'm guessing this is because it is so new.Has anyone ferried their moto to Zarubino that could report a cost? I would like to find this info online rather than make a phone call.

And could someone tell me what the cost and process would be to allow an American to ride a moto in South Korea.This is assuming that no nuclear bombs are flying :tank: in the next 6 weeks.I was hoping to spend some time in South Korea.But I'm not sure with the way things are heating up.Maybe I could Dennis Rodman to ride with me through North Korea and avoid the ferry completely.

Hey doodle,

What are your plans? We have planned to be in South Korea from the 23rd of May this year - then planning to ferry to Russia. Our Russian visa starts from June 1.

We don't have any info yet about the new ferry. Also warily keeping an eye on the Nth Korea situation. At the moment we think that if ships and planes keep going, then so will we.

Igor and Penny

Wellington,
New Zealand

Still plan to leave Vancouver near the end of May.I prefer to ship to S. Korea.But may need to go straight to Russia if the climate doesn't change.I haven't found much about the new ferry.Below is a link about the ferry.

Shanghai Harvest International Logistics Co., Ltd

Doug

Seouljoe - thanks for the link. What browser did you check google translate with? I only get some text translated. Will have another look. Also - online booking appears to be "under construction".

Cheers,

Igor

__________________________________________________ _____
Igor,

I have been getting the same thing on that site. It's all Greek to me. Click on "English" and it just stares at you.

Sokcho to Zarubino
 

This ferry closed operation as of June 26, 2014
Only the DBS operates between Donghae and Vladivostok
http://www.dbsferry.com/eng/02_ticket/ticket03.asp



Dae Ah Ferry

Every Tuesday 13:00 Hrs depart Sok Cho ,, arrives Zarubino 11AM on Wednesday.

Every Friday 16:00 Hrs Sok Cho to Vladivistok to arrive Saturday 17:00 Hrs

DBS Ferry

Dong Hae to Vadivostok only
Every Sunday 14:00 Hrs to arrive Vladivistok on Monday 15:00 Hrs

Both ferries appx 5-600 usd for the bike 50 - 200 per passenger. Major credit cards accepted.

Just remember,, if you go to Vladiviostok ,, your bike will be stuck in bond for three days. Too much cargo !
Zarubino ,, you can clear in two - three hours.
Good luck!

Thank you SeoulJoe. :clap: A lot of people have been looking for this info.Hope you don't mind if I post this on one of my threads.

Doug

My wife Penny and I arrived in Seoul last night.

We will be uncrating the bike in Busan on Tuesday, and taking the ferry to Zarubino the following Tuesday.

We're keen to meet up with anyone in Korea in the meantime. Let us know!

Seoul
 

If you are in Seoul.. call me at 010 4765 4984 ..just dial on local phone or +82 10 4765 4984.
We can meet for a glass of wine.
Joe

Joe,

You mentioned in a recent(ish) post that the ferry from Incheon Island was running. Is it easy to find ?

Mike and I will be uncrating the bikes on the 29th or 30th and then trying to get across the country to Donghau.

In Cheon AP ferry to In Cheon to avoid motorway
 

It is running. Make sure though you uncrate before 5pm. Last ferry is around 6pm. Just ask for directions to Wol Mi Do ferry ..prounounced PERI for ferry. 5 minutes from the ICN cargo terminal.
Look at the map I've posted, in earlier post.
Make the run on the highway to Gimpo AP ,, stay on the blue lane as you approach the toll. If caught all you will get is a warning!
Korean bikers have been demonstrating against no highway rule, Many of us are getting caught on purpose so we can take it all the way to the constitutional court!

Also, if anyone can recommend hotel/guesthouse accommodation in Busan we'd be grateful. We are planning to arrive in Busan on Monday and leave on Thursday. Ideally, we'd like to stay somewhere we can park the bike safely.

Hi Joe,

Thanks for the info, but we will not be riding now. We have screwed up the documents. Both bikes are on on 1 AWB/Dangerous Goods. We had a misunderstanding with Wendy and thought it was OK.

We will now have to get them trucked to Dong Hau, we hope to get a ride with the truck :-)

We will be in Seoul (probably) the 29th/30th. Any recommended places(areas) to stay ? I can't remember seeing any in the thread

Motel
 

Soon as you are on your feet,,, ask ,, customs guys ,, secretaries,, police,,
Good clean reasonable motel. ( 깨끗하고 저렴한 모텔) Safe parking for the bike ,, most of the motels have hidden garages, with CCTVs (안전한 주차장) ,, print this out and show them.
Or ,, type motels in Seoul, Busan, In Cheon, Korea on Google,, Voilla!
100% of the motels have free internet and free PC in the room,, it's a requirement like the water fountain and coffee.
Just find any motel ,, walk in... USD 40 - 80 per night ,,, also haggle.
Look at the map of Seoul. Pick ,, either by the city hall for ancient relics,,, Hong Dae University / Mapo district (Wendy's Office) for entertainment,,, Itaewon, near US army head quarters for Taco Bells, Wendy's and knock off Nikes,, near the Hyatt Hotel, Nam San (South Mountain, right in the centre of Seoul),, or go Psy style and head out to Gang Nam ,, south of Han river ( Han means people of Han,, Korea is Han Guk, in Korean,,, and same Guk ,, was used by GIs , with racial tone, for people of SE Asia ,, Korea comes from Koryu Dynasty ,, who conquered all three kingdoms ,, with land masse as far as eastern tip of Mongolia and all of Manchuria ,, to Sacharin ,, AD 700s) ,, some of the motels are Love Motels,, you check out at 11 ,, check in 7PM, find a district with less drinking bars unless you want sex toys in the room.
Booking.com is also great,, I usually get on line 2-6 PM and look for last minute deals for the night. I have had many good rooms at the half of the price, all over the world. Even motels, in small villages, in Russia has Booking.com affiliation.
Korean cops and people are friendly,, they will escort you in their patrol car. Just ask ,, Motel ,, and use body language.

Bruce, Mike, and Igmortis
I am in Seoul as of yesterday.I hope to get my bike out tomorrow. Hope I can get stuff together and catch the Tuesday ferry to Zarubino. I'm staying at K POP Residents several blocks from the Best Western. I need to find a rear tire for Mongolia.I decided at the last hour, not to lug 2 tires across the USA.But now, I'm not finding tires here, as I thought I would.

Tires in Seoul
 

We got all sorts of tires of all needs, here in Seoul.
Tell us which tires you need.
Call my number,, you have only Monday morning to replace them.
ICN AP to Sok Cho is good 6 hour ride.
Your bike has to be on board the ferry at 9 AM ,, which means you will have to bed down in Sok Cho Monday night.
Call me and I will recommend a Korean hubber to give you a hand.
Your bike details ,, tires you need.:taz:

My tire is 130/80 17.I have a new Shinko 700 at home. Then I thought why carry it here, when they're made here.I found a street full of dealers today. But it looks like dealers are separate from maintenance. I only need a rear tire to put on when I get to Ulanbatar.I put a new front on 100 miles ago.

I also want to get another chain, 106 links 520 O ring.
I need to get my bike from Korean Air in the morning. I hope that goes smooth.

Landed in Vlad this afternoon. In Optimum hostel. Louie should be here somewhere.

Tyres, I never lug them, we have some waiting for us here, near Vlad.

You are welcome to my partly used less than 1000miler if it fits :-) . I got in Eureka when our detour wore out the rear :-)

Tyres in Russia, try Dimity , buy@motorezina.ru and dl@wrooom.ru he was recommended to us by Heidenau and can deliver to just about anywhere in Russia

Erm, that is the same size as mine. I can leave the rear 100k north of Vlad if that is any good for you ?

To Russia ~ !
 

Spoke to Doug last night,, sorted him out,
Hope he made out to Sok Cho tonight.
He will be on the same ferry, to Zarubino, with a New Zealand couple,, Penny and Igor.
You guys look up Iron Angels and mention my name,, they will treat you well.
Also get the tel no of Iron Angels Mogocha Chapter,, for emergency. The most isolated, dangerous and long haul to Chita, where next benzine is available.
Make sure to fill up at the edge of Mogocha town behind wooden fence, just before the highway. Next benzine is 292 KM. Also the best cafe on the whole route is cross the street from the first benzine station, on the left as you enter Chita. Enjoy a long meal there. It goes down hill from there,,,,

Iron Angels Vlad has a huge bike repair shop.. with tons of parts.

Russia to Korea
 

Dear Nxxxx ...
Inbound to Korea from Russia ,,
Zarubino or Vladivostok is same.

Ask Yuri Menikov in Vladivostok.. HUBB forwarder.

Yuri Melnikov
Links, Ltd.
89 Svetlanskaya str., office 312,
690078, Vladivostok, Russia.
Tel/fax: +7(423)222-15-78
Tel: +7(423)222-08-87
Mobile: +7 902 5243447
mail to: ymelnik@links-ltd.com

When you arrive, in Sok Cho or Dong Hae, you simply declare a personal effect manifest,, your bike being a mobile personal item, no tax,, no carnet. They will ask you how long the bike will be in the country and may direct you to an insurance agency,, Get the bike insurance! There is an insurance agent the ferry knows of and it is only 40 bucks for a month, for a third party liability.
Also you need to read my thread on the HUBB about riding in Korea if you can.
http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...in-korea-57857

This ferry has closed operation as of June 24, 2014
http://stenadaea.com/eng/main.asp

http://www.dbsferry.com/eng/main/main.asp


Once you arrive Sok Cho or Dong Hae ,, to Seoul is about 5 hours ,, go to In Sa Dong and ask any police man, for a motel,, you are 15 minutes by walking from the city hall,, full of historical palaces and museums.The rate is ca USD 50 or nearby 2 -3 star hotel USD 180. Booking.com is great for this.
Get hold of Wendy Choi,, a HUBB Korea forwarder.
wendychoi2@gmail.com
M 010-6213-3961
Ask her to help you find your forwarder,, she will not charge you for this.
After you have settled in call me at 010-4765-4984
Last year I gave USD 2,500 to Iron Angels, Vladivostok for their charity. I will definitely will open my ears to your project.
Get hold of Iliya of the Angels,, and chew some tobacco over my time there.
Ochin dobre Ruskie,, I love the damn place and the people.
Angels address;
http://ironangelsmcc.com/index.php

Good luck ,,
Joe

How long is temporary?
 

Hi Joe, You appear to be the authority on S. Korea and bikes and I've been getting mixed results trying to find some answers to some questions. I'm thinking of coming to Korea for work for a while, maybe a year and was wondering if there was a way to bring my bike with me for that long. How long can I bring in the bike without "importing" it and paying crazy duty fees? I plan on continuing to Russia after my stay in S. Korea and want my bike for that so buying one there isn't really an option (plus I like my bike and have puts tons of work into modifying it). I've seen threads where military guys do this, but it may be different off base...

The actual "plan" is to ship it to Thailand, ride around the area for a few months, then proceed to S. Korea, spend about a year, then proceed to Russia for a while (I'm originally Russian, but live in the USA). Maybe Europe or Africa after that, but that's a long time away.

Any help, tips or advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks Joe. lev

Importing a bike into Korea.
 

Depeneds on your visa. If you are coming to reside. You will need to declare the bike as a household item..with import duties ca 30% then mot inspection of usd 500 to 2000 then epb test of usd 500 and if pass all.. registration fee of usd 700.
If you come as a transiit.with proper declaration for your bike..within your normal 3mos then with more visa extensions..could stretch a year.
....without paying any fee...except the insurance.
Good luck.

Thanks! You gave me hope :thumbup1:

German bike and Swiss license no no in Korea
 

As I have stated many times.. it turns out to be a big BS..
Just this week ,. a Swiss rider with German registered bike came thru Korea from Vladivostok.
He has sent me an EM, from Russia, with this myth ,, concern.
Just told him come thru and sure enough he passed right thru the customs, at Sok Cho and have shipped his bike today to Canada via In-Cheon AP.

So don't listen to this fable if you are riding a German reg bike or have a Swiss license. Korea has opened up. (Still,, If you send the bike to ICN by cargo ,, you might meet a voodoo customs official, who insists on the 1949 treaty) Use Wendy Choi do the import paper work.

as the title of this thread is "Riding Pointers in Korea" this is what i found out:

The ferry leaves Sokcho for Zarubino every Tuesday at 1pm, the Sokcho International Terminal opens at 7:30am, go in the main doors, on the far right is a corridor, (or drive to the right side of the building) half way down, another turn and then you can see the Stena office, this is the cargo office (your ticket comes later on) go in and tell them that you have a motorcycle that you will be bringing with you. they will start the paper work. as for spoken languages, there was a korean man (and a russian woman) working in the cargo section that spoke pretty good english. i paid W581,524 for a bmw xchallenge, not sure if its a set price, as they didnt look at the bike, just gave me a price (and an official receipt). there is an ATM in the building for you to withdraw your money, and the cargo guy will assist you through the process. somewhere around 11am, cargo guy will bring you over to where you can buy your ticket for the ferry.

i chose the cheap rooms, as the ferry was empty, i paid W90,000 for a one way ticket and had the room to myself. shower facilities onboard (brilliant hot shower)

important to ensure, that when you leave incheon airport you have the original import document that the customs office issued you with. as customs in sokcho, will NOT accept photo copies

i entered through incheon airport using my Hong Kong Drivers license and Canada plated motorcycle, zero problems, all they wanted to see was my international drivers license and registration, they never batted an eye that they were from very different countries

Globe Riders Korea
 

My brother riding club, who has in the past met some of you on the road as well in Korea. I have sent many of them to meet you off the boat at Sok Cho or Dong Hae has come aboard on HUBB.
If any of you coming to Korea, wishes to meet ,, share or need assistance, please contact my brothers.

http://cafe.naver.com/motorcycletrav...lubid=13673174

Soon I am turning my summer house on the river in Yang Pyung into a biker club,, let you know.

If you need further assistance ,, you know how to get hold of me.
:scooter:

Travels of "Cloud Drift"
 

Happy to report ,, a young Korean,, has just completed one year and two months of RTW, on his small BMW.
He first only intended in doing the SIberia ,, but he kept on going.
Left Korea in June of 2012 ,, transiberia, Northern Europe, Southern Europe,, Turkey to Egypt then to S.Africa ,, cross the ocean to Argetina ,, Padagonia ,, up to Chile ,, over the Central America ,, Mexico ,, California ,, all the way upto Prudhoe Bay, Alaska.
This is a second Korean rider, who has done this,,
Congradulation are in order.
Whenever, you meet a Korean rider ,, I hope HUBBers will become fast friends with them and lend out any helping hand if you can.
For we are ready to assist you in Korea.

Amazing Kiwis ,,
 

These Kiwis .. came to S.Korea from Magadan via North Korea from Baekdu Mountain thru the DMZ.
Taking them out to din din manana ,,

Motorcycle Adventure travel - World By Bike

Amazing Kiwis ,,2
 

Great din din....
http://www.vice.com/the-vice-guide-t...rcycle-diaries

Russian Village in Seoul
 

When ever I miss Russian food ,, I go to the Russian village ,,right in the middle of Seoul. You will find small hotels, shops, restaurants and trading companies that do a busy commerce, with Russian tourists that come to Seoul.
Food is good ,,a nice Russian bakery,,, often you will see a group of Russian tourists and students.
Perhaps ,, those passing through to go to Russia,, should spend a day or so and get a feel for the food?

How to import a vehicle to Korea
 

If you arrive from China, Russia or Japan, with your vehicle, on a ferry,,you simply declare to the customs,, temporary importation of your car or bike. Process will take less than an hour. Import fee is nominal USD 15 or so for the stamp duty. Then you walk over to the ferry agent and ask for an insurance company,,insurance for the vehicle is ca USD 45 for 30 days. (liability only motorcycle,, cars more)
Make sure to guard the customs declaration, with your life, and show original form as you exit,, or you will face a great hassle.

If you are sending the vehicle by ocean or air carrier from overseas,,,
1) Get hold of Wendy Choi (I have no affiliation,, never held her hand ,, never had a free lunch from her)
Her mobile is +82 (0)10-6213-3961
EM is wendychoi2(at)gmail.com
AERO INTERNATIONAL CO.LTD.,TEL:02-372-6181 FAX:02-375-8145 M)010-6213-3961
Office is at Mapo District, Seoul,, plenty of motels,, Her office is 10 minutes by taxi to the famous Hong Dae University entertainment area. Full of young people at all hours,, restaurants,, clubs etc. Click the street view.
https://maps.google.co.kr/maps?expfl...=A&gl=KR&hl=en

2)Fax her in advance copy of your passport, international drivers license, your bike registration and the shipping document.

3) Have her file temporary import license of your vehicle as a "personal effect"

4) Tell her how long you will stay in Korea and where you will exit i.e., Sokcho to Zarubino, Russia on :::::StenaDaeaLine:::::

5) Have her contact her automobile insurance company and pre-arrange a temporary vehicle insurance. Should not cost more than 45 USD for 30 days. (liability only is avaliable)

6) If your bike arrives in a wooden crate,, you will be liable for crate transport from the vessel to staging area then unpacking. If by ro-ro stevedore charges you ca USD 40 for driving the bike off the ramp. In case of air cargo, you simply go to the cargo terminal. You and airline employees uncrate.

7) Wendy's fee is USD 100 for the import declaration - license. (She has lowered her fee to USD 50 as of June, 2014)

8) Have Wendy have her company get on the Pay Pal list ,, you can send her the fees for insurance etc in advance. So you will have the docs, when you arrive.

Those, who does not use Wendy or other forwarder,,ends up at a local DMV,, (not necessary to do so ) have to run around the port or air port between the customs and freight company and subject to all sorts of voodoo interpretation of the law by the often unqualified staff, who never had seen a foreigner arrive with a bike or insists on 1949 Geneva convention)
This will cost you many hours, where else if use Wendy. After having sent all the documents, you just show up at the point of pick up of your vehicle and drive off.

Wendy's fee of 100+ possibly USD 200 more for other charges,, (Uncrating of the box etc)
Wendy works for a freight forwarder ,, I have no idea, who at the HUBB discovered her many years ago, but she has now fine tuned this bike import and export routine down to the pad and I shamelessly claim that she gained more knowledge of this shipping methodology, through my input to her.

One day if Wendy is not available, we will have alternative forwarders in Korea, such as Korea Express, who is owned by Sam Sung group, for all their shipments ,, with offices all over the world. I have used them on many occasions and the price is same.
Global Network l CJ korea express
Owned by Sam Sung group of companies.
or
https://www.hanjin.com/hanjin/CUP_HO...?sessLocale=en
Owned by Korean Airline ,, one of the largest container shipping line.

EDD's myth on bond at the ICN Airport
 

Edd ,, I tracked down the famous and kind Mrs. Young Jin SHIN.
Spoke with her at length ,, she has sent me your receipt for 160,000 won including the articles of the import rules set by the Korean Customs and Excise.
That was a third party guarante,, from some one, whom you only just met ,, guaranteeing that you will take the expensive BMW bike out of Korea. That guarantor was Hal Ryul KIM ,, 160,000 was a stamp fee. Had you sold your bike ,, that Mr. Kim would have paid for the import tax of your bike. The receipt clearly shows your name ,, even though you took off ,, they kept it for the records sake.

At same note , it seems you got unlucky by pursuing own customs clearance. (Vooddoo interpretation, I spoke of) Had you used Wendy ,, none of this issues would have come up. All those arriving from Russia, Japan or China ,, including ocean and air freight into ICN,, never had this experience, before. I am attaching the so call receipt ,, you left behind. Receipt dated June 22, 2013.

I hope others take lesson from this , do not go through the language and geographical maze on you own ,, simply hire Wendy or other forwarder for a lousy 100 bucks ,, and just show up and drive off your bike.

Shipping Out OF Korea to Your Next Destination
 

Air Freight,,
We have all the major international airlines arriving on daily basis.
You name it , KLM to Garuda,, Air Canada to United Airlines,,,,, Gulf AIr, Indian Air,, Two Russian carriers.
Korean Air and Asiana flies direct to Mongolia to Uzbekistan,, Paris to Mexico City,, London to Istanbul.
Freight seems to ca USD 2500 - 3000 to all destinations,,
Those needing a pallet, for the bike simply call http://www.harley-korea.com/web/website/main.asp , https://www.suzuki.co.kr// or http://www.bmwmotorrad.co.kr/,, https://www.hondakorea.co.kr/ (Google) ,, They will oblige quite eagerly. Korean nature. These have branches in Seoul, Busan and Dae Gu.

You will have an import declaration on you as you would have come off a passenger carrying ferry from Russia, China or Japan. Simpy hand this over this Wendy,, tell her to negotiate the rate from the carrier. (She works for a very small forwarding agency and her rate might not be very competitive. Last two riders,, I did the negotiation, with the airlines at 2,500 each to Canada) Or you deal with the carrier then have Wendy book,, either way she gets her commission, as a forwarder. Have the pallet delivered to the terminal.. you would pay the transport of the pallet ,, round USD 100 ,, 150 to ICN air cargo terminal ,, but far cheaper than a time it takes to make the custom wooden box + weight of the bloody thing will cost you more in freight. Remember it is always weight or measure, which ever is greater is what shipping companies charge. With pallets,,, you simply ride on,, strap down with ready straps and ready made eyes and holes on the pallet.

Ocean freight.
Two major ro-ros ,, Wallenius goes to Japan, Seattle, Long Beach, Jacksonvill then New Jersey ,, then to UK ,, Germany.
Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics - worldwide ocean transport, inland services, supply chain solutions, terminal services

Eukor,, stands for Europe-Korea ,, a JV with Hyundai and Wallenius,,, goes China, Singapore, India, Turkey, Italy, France, UK and Germany.
http://www.eukor.com/index.jsp

RO-RO ,, no boxes ,, easier ,, cheaper.
If not ,, hiring a full 20ft ocean container is 3-4,000 dollars, unless you can pack 4 - 6 bikes ,, does not make sense.

This is where, house hold movers come in,,, there are Korean business and Korean communities, in every major cities of the world ,, Dar es Salam to Brisbane ,, Chile to Moscow. And tons of house hold movers, with niche market. Same as air cargo ,, find a pallet ,, pack it and ship as a LCL (less than contailer) ,, you will pay around USD 65- 100 per CBM.

Two big ones ,
Han Jin ocean carriers and forwarding,, owned by Korean Air..
HANJIN SHIPPING : Main


Korea Express ,, a Sam Sung family owned forwder.
CJ korea express

They have offices in major cities in your country ,, helps, when you are talking to the same agent at both end.
You can call them direct,, but then all the hassle of voodoo explanation.
It will cost extra 100 ,, call Wendy and have her book it. For Aussies and Kiwis ,, this would be the best bet, since no direct ro-ro from Korea to downunder.

Transit time on ocean ,, ro-ro to US west coast ,, 7 days ,, east coast 15 days.
To UK ,, appx 28 days. In between ,, Singapore 6 days ,, India 17 days on and on. In fact it might faster to ship from Korea to Europe, on east bound Wallenius. Since Eukor sailing is infrequent vs Wallenius every week. Unless you are going to Mediterranean or before destinations.

Cost
To USA ,, about USD 800 west coast,,, 1200 to east coast + Wendy + stevedore 100 both end ,, cargo release 100 or so for both ro-ro and house hold.

This should be ample info for you to google and figure out with Wendy.
If you have any emergencies or in a dire ,, do not hesitate to call me. M 010-4765-4984
:clap:

is this first hand knowledge? based on personal experiences?
or just stuff that you found on google?

First of all, why are you holding a copy of my receipt? Did you request my permission to collect it?, lie to get it or (I wouldn’t think so) just accept an offer to receive it from her? Someone else’s private business will never be any of yours, its rather nosy to be so much as entertained with the idea of being in possession of it.

Secondly, why are you raising the very mention of import rules or anything about Customs & Excise? I broke no laws, did nothing untoward, so they don’t even warrant a mention.

an explanation was not needed, i was explaining the process.

unlucky?
it was a great experience, isnt that what an adventure is all about?
the reason that i didnt use wendy was, i didnt see the need to spend the "lousy 100 bucks"
if i were to do it again, i still would do it by myself

actually, your not correct here, i wasnt the first, others have done the same procedure... to which i was given the info on how it was done, but rather then keep the info/ experience to myself, i thought that i would share, with the hope that others might find it useful.

that it was my mistake, to willful post info on the internet, that might help others,

As it happens, I got through the whole process unscathed, saved some money, had an experience, learnt something new, had no problems with anyone or anything and added to the …. ohh, what’s the word? What are all these bike trips about? Yes, that’s right: Adventure.
I also did something: I posted about it for everyone to read so that others can learn from my experience and maybe do it themselves. I SHARED. I gave something back to the community, unlike you, who simply turns around to attack and insult someone for sharing.

perhaps in the future, before collecting someone else's personal items and posting it on the internet, you might actually send the individual a pm, asking for permission...

at least that would be the polite thing to do

The Receipt
 

Receipt not containing your credit card number nor your passport number,, is not considered as a "private", when it was issued by a government agencies in Korea. The receipt was scanned and delivered to me by EM. When I confronted them with 'Why no receipt" and "For what?

You wrote " i didnt get a receipt, but i was happy not to ask for one." an implication, that it was some sort of bribery perhaps, upset my national pride greatly. Korean government may be less transparent than those of USA or UK ,, that too may be in question... but no one, in Korea will screw around with, 160,000 WON to risk a government job. I had to know if some one at the airport was ripping off HUBBers. (Governement worker of Mrs. Shin's rank,, is about USD 80,000 per annum, including bonuses and perks. Ratio of job applicants for such a life time job is 12,000 to 1)

Had you not used those lines, I would not have contacted Mrs. Shin,,, nor such thing as bond exists as you have claimed.
All others walks in or flies in, with out such fees. Because of my lenghty conversation, with Mrs. Shin,, she vowed that In Cheon International customs, will follow guidelines such as Bu San port, where hundreds of Japanese comes to Korea, with vehicles. Vis a vis hundreds of same goes to Japan from Korea. ICN customs will simplify the process.

As for my shipping knowledge,, I was with Sealand-Maersk, in New York, London,, Dacotrans Grosskopf GmbH of Dusselforf,,, for Nedlloyd BV in Hong Kong and Korea. Korea branch manager / Asia director for Mammoet Transport BV. Before finding my own company.
Dealt with containers, ro-ros , project cargo of 600 - 1,200 ton modules, bridges, plants in one piece from Korea to North Sea, Gulf of Mexico, Middle East, India and Africa. I won the initial forwarding contract for the Great Man Man Made River Project of Libiya for shipping for the 22 billion dollar ,, 12 year project, which I discovered, reading a 3 line article, in the Mid-East Economic Digest, mentioning Brown and Roots having discoved water in the Sahara,,,Libiya wanting a Green Revolution,,,took me three months to dot the lines,, realising that Dong Ah of Korea will get the project,,, to prepare,,I had the survey of all the ports in Libya done.. before the project became official,, giving my firm,, a large competitive edge to comps.
https://www.google.co.kr/search?q=gr...m=122&ie=UTF-8
If you have any shipping questions,, ask away. I still have many friends, as head of shipping lines, in major cities, including Hong Kong. And you ask them ,, From day one at.. after six months,, I never did 9-5 punch in. I worked at my leisure and at my schedule,, made my own decisions ,, traveled, when ever there was need.

You can google those company names above.

Glad you still made the ferry to Russia, after all that exciting adventure, at the ICN.
Good luck.

All others will need to decide,, use a forwarder (They do all the paper work as ,,at the major ports, only the freight forwarder can do the customs clearance request) for lousy USD 100 bucks ,,just show up,,collect the bike and hit the road or do the work as EDD. Have a 9 hour adventure at the In Cheon airport and come away with no receipt.
EDD's break down,, USD 160 for no receipt non existing bond.
24 bucks for a bus out to the airport.
Full day at the airport,,
Could really have faced voodoo interpretation and really had to make a 1,600 USD deposit.
Lastly,, ferry to Russia is not on every day. Next ferry is minimum 4 day window. To Japan 3 - 4 sailings per day. To China daily.

Next time when you call some one a liar,, do it facing that person.
Henceforth... I consider you a persona non grata.

My Dialogue with customs officials at the ICN
 

All those,, with bikes or cars arriving at sea port such as Bu San and Incheon,, have no hitches,, especially those arriving from Russia, China or Japan ,, you just claim your cargo or drive off in 2 - 3 hours.

In Cheon International Airport is another story, when you air ship ,, same as Japan.
Perhaps due to the lack of bikes coming through as a "Personal Effect" depending, on who is on duty,, gets the voodoo interpretation of the law.

I've had the lengthy EM dialogue, with the customs and excise at the airport and have CCed Wendy Choi ,,

Jest is that,, I have demanded a uniform treatment of the Anglo riders import by air carrier as hundreds of Japanese bikers and auto travelers coming through the Port of Bu San, with only a signature.

I hope ,, you folks coming through ICN will have an easier time,, from here on , that is the promise I have gotten from them ,, "we will do our best".
I am posting the letters here ,,

All this can be avoided by using a freight forwarder ,, i.e., Wendy Choi.

EM from Korea Customs and Excise at the In Cheon International Airport.
" 선생님이 올려주신 Ed의 의문에 대한 답변 잘 보았습니다.

"자칫 한국세관에 대한 오해와 불신이 발생할 수도 있었는데,
선생님의 적극적인 대처로 오해가 풀릴 수 있게되어
대한민국 세관을 대표하여 감사드립니다.

그리고, 1949 조항과 관련하여 타 세관 일시반입차량 처리과정을 확인하여
우리세관에 반영가능하면 내부검토후 즉시 반영할 수 있도록 조치하겠습니다.

유선상 서로 정확한 정보없이 대화를 하느라 언성이 높아진 점 죄송하게 생각합니다.
그럼 앞으로도 대한민국 관광 활성화를 위하여 많은 노력 부탁드리며, 다시한번 감사인사 드립니다.

안녕히계세요."

A possible misunderstanding and mistrust could have risen regarding Korea Customs and Excise, due to Ed's receipt. To your energetic efforts, this has been avoided and in behalf of Korea Customs and Excise we thank you.

And for the 1949 articles of the Geneva conference, we will confirm with other customs offices of their process and will,, after internal review ,, if it is possible,, we will take action immediately.

I apologise for raising my voice, with out any prior written understanding. We hope that you continue, with your efforts to improve Korea tourism , and we thank you once more. "

My EM to Korea Customs;
안녕하세요,,,
다시 정리된 마음으로 편지 올립니다 ,,
1949년 조항을 물론 법을 따라아 갰지만 ,,역시 1949 년도 조항입니다 ,, 65년전 일입니다 ,, 작년만헤도 우리 한국 청년 6명,, 여자 둘 , 저포함,,,러시아로 해서 독일은 물론 전 유럽을 ,, 구청에서 발부하는 영문 이륜차 등록증 하나로 모든 국경을 관세 없이 통과 하고 왔습니다.
또 작년에 스위스 운전자가 독일 바이크 로 러시아 자루비노 항에서 속초로 들어와 인천공항에서 카나다 뱅쿠버로 항공화물로 보내졌지만 ,, 항공화물로 들어온 2 독일 바이크는 보세로 속초로 보내 주었고 ,, 우리가 일반 트럭을 대행하여 운반하면 인천공한에서 속초까지 30 만원이면 되는 1톤을 78만원에 옭기고 ,, 또 ,, 아름다운 한국의 강원도 바이크 여행도 몿하고 같다고 실망이 큽니다 ,,

또 ,, 누구는 아무 탈없이 ,, 아무 바용도 안내고 통관 ,, 누구는 160 - 200 만원 보증금을 내라 ,, 누구는 10% 만 내라 ,,

작년에 , 부산한, 인천항, 속초항, 동해항, 인천공항으로 약 200 대의 바이크 들이 들어 왔다가 출국했습니다 ,, 90% 는 일본 바이커들이고 ,, 10% 미국, 유럽 라이더 들입니다 ,, 이 10% 중 ,, 딱 2명 ,, Ed 하고 독일 바이크 2대 만 인천공항에서 ,, 다른 입국처의 휴대품과는 요구하지 않는 법에 걸리는것 같습니다 ,, 또 일본에서 오는 바이커 들은 무조건,, 간단히 일시반출 기간란에 서명만 하고 들어 옵니다 ,, 한국 바이커들 역시 일본 가면 마찬가지 이고요,,
왜 유럽, 미국, 카나다 ,호주 바이커들만 인천공항으로 들어 오면 이렇개 힘든가요? 또 작년 인천공항으로 들어온 다른 바이커 들은 아무 규재없이 개인 사인 하나로 대한민국 세관에 반출 날자 약속 하고 나왔습니다.
그날 담당자가 누군가 가 문재 인가요?

4, 5, 6월에 약 10 대의 바이크들이 한국에 또 들어 옵니다 ,, 3-4 대는 인천공항으로 ,, 그들의 목적은 바로 러시아 로 ,, 세계일주의 꿈을 가진 사람들입다 ,, 대부분이 중고 바이크 들이고 ,, 장사를 할려고 들어 온는 바이크는 한대도 없습니다 ,, 저역시 이들이 들어 오면서 이익을 버는개 없읍니다 ,, 단 제기 바이크로 세계일주 할때 ,, 그들은 어디에 가도 ,, 반겨주고 ,, 도와주고 했습니다 ,, 얼마전 북한으로 해서 BMW 6대로 들어온 뉴질랜드 라이더 들도 우리 그룹입니다 ,, 아무도 그들에게 ,, 관세니 ,, 보증이니 란 말을 안했습니다 ,,

Welcome to the global home of motorcycle travel and overland adventure travel! | Horizons Unlimited

전번에 보신 사이트 는 세계에서 가장큰 바이크 모험 여행 사이트 이고 휘원만 90,000 명이 넘습니다 ,, 그들은 아프리카 ,, 중동 ,, 히말라야 도 바이크로 갑니다 ,, 세계횡단을 할려면 러시아를 관통해야하며,, 한국이 시작이나 끗이 됩니다 ,, 지금 30세의 영국여자혼자 시베리아 의 눈위를 달리고 있습니다,,
전쟁지역도 타고 가고 ,, 가다 황당한 교통사고 로 많이 죽고 합니다 ,, 어뗜경우엔 부부가 함깨 ,,

Mrs 신 ,, 바이크 는 휴대품과 소관입니다 ,, 이것은 비싼 Rolex 도 아니고 Chanel 가방도 아닙니다 ,, 오히려 ,, 왼만한 악어 가방 반갑도 안나갑니다
이 여행자들을 위하고 ,, 대한민국의 좋은 이미지를 심어 주면 어떨가요?
동료직원들과 심각한 검토를 해주셔서 ,, 4, 월이 되기전에 ,, 방침을 새워 주십시요 ,,
또 빠른 업무를 위해서 ,, 들어 오는 바이커들은 꼭 ,, 통관사를 쓰라고 예기 했습니다 ,, 공항에서 여러사람 피곤하개 만들고 시간 낭비 하지 말라고요 ,,
감사합니다 .
박윤수 배상
010-4765-4984

I am writing, after calming my mind and gathering my thoughts.
1949 article is indeed a law ,, yet it's a 65 year old law. Last year 6 of our young women and men motorcyclists traveled, including my self not only Russia, but Germany and all of Europe just with a English translation of motorcycle registration issued by a local ward office, We were never asked for tax or bonds.

Last year,,, a Swiss license holder using a German bike came from Russia via Sok Cho and sent his bike to Canada, from ICN, with out any problems,, yet two German bike had to be shipped to Sok Cho on a bonded truck,, the fee would have been USD 300 for local bikers,,, yet they had to pay USD 780 for the trucking. They have complained loudly,, the fees and not being able to enjoy the beautiful Gang Won Province,,,

And some comes through ICN, with out a hitch ,, some are demanded USD 1,600 - 2,000 bond ,, some 10% stamp fee etc.
Last year,,, through Bu San, In Cheon, Sok Cho, Dong Hae and ICN ,, some 200 bikes came through and left,, 90% were Japanese,, 10% USA and Europe,,, Only Ed and two Germans,,, were subjected to ICN demands. All Japanese bikers coming through ,, only needs to sign a dotted line on the temporary import license,, same goes for all the Korean bikers going to Japan, when we arrive there.
Why only US, Europe and Australians coming through ICN ,, is it so so difficult? Other bikes that also came through ICN did not have a single problem. Just signed the dotted line,, promising that they will re-export within the given date.
Does it depend on who is on duty that day?

Welcome to the global home of motorcycle travel and overland adventure travel! | Horizons Unlimited


April, May and June ,, some 10 bikes will come to Korea again ,, 3 or 4 to ICN ,, their purpose is to go straight to Russia,, round the world is their purpose,, to fill their dream. Most of the bikes are used,, none of them are doing it to sell the bikes,,, I too gain nothing when they come through Korea ,,, but in a way I am paying back all the generosity I have received during my own journeys,, Not long ago ,, 6 BMWs came through North Korea ,, no one asked them for taxes,, bonds,, they also are members of Horizons Unlimited.

Horizons Unlimited is the largest online motorcycle adventure site, with 90,000 members ,, they are in Africa,, Himalaya,,Middle East ,,,on their bikes,,, to do the RTW they have to go through Russia from Korea or come out in Korea,, as we speak there is a 30 year old girl ,, riding on the snow of Siberia ,, they go through the war zones,,,, and some of them die on the road ,,,, some together with their spouses.


Mrs. Shin,, these bikes are under Korea Customs PERSONAL ITEMS department ,, these are not expensive Rolex ,, Chanel bags ,, half the price of a crocodile bag ,,
How about helping these travelers and give them a good impression of Korea?
Kindly give a serious discussion with your colleagues,, and before April comes,, put out a policy, for them to pass through unhindered.
At same time I have asked fellow riders to use the freight forwarder to save every one's time and frustration.
Thank you, "

Sending Several Bikes to Korea
 

Do not list all the bikes in ONE BILL OF LADDING or ONE AIRWAY BILL.
Especially the air cargo.
Use SEPARATE shipping document for each bike. We had recently two bikes on one shipping document,, as dangerous goods ,, Bruce,, they missed beautiful Korean scenery , beautiful women ,, wonderful bath houses , had to have their bike shipped to Sok Cho in a bonded truck. No wine with moi. ;(

Inbound ICN
 

Hi Joe. I am arriving April 16, 2014. Headed to Zarubino and Frankfurt, Germany. Your posts have been a great help for me.
Say a prayer the weather starts warming up. :freezing:

Siberia can snow in May ,, but then lot of folks did it in April as well. Bring warm riding gear!!!! Also frequent drizzles upto and past Khabavrosk,, after it dries out,, Mongol weather as you get closer to Ulan Ude.

Latest from ICN ..
All ATA carnet conference nations ,, no tax nada,,,
Non ATA conference countries a 10% stamp fee. Insurance is no problem for them unlike Japan.

Have Wendy get you the Korean bike insurance, before you ARRIVE!,, any insurer can issue for all nations,, minimum is 15 days but same as a month. USD45,, or 45,000 KRW. Pay her in advance via paypal,, so you wont run around the airport,, or go to DMV in the city of In Cheon ,, or get ripped off like Doogle and pay USD 150 for the insurance,, this is what we pay for a year. You will save 2-3 hours at the ICN.

You know how to get hold of me..

Hey Joe! I know I cant use a main road like Highway 50 from Inchon to the east coast but can I use 44 out to Sokcho? Or is that also a main road?
I have reservations on the April 20 ferry

Wendy says I am the first bike in this year that she knows about. So I get to be the warm up act for her.

Hey Red ,,
You are the first rider to hit Korea this year. Most come in late May.
Highway 6 out of Seoul ,, via W Hotel ,, Han River North side to 44 THEN to 46,,, to final 56 ,, over the So Rak mountain all the way to Sok Cho ,, over the Mi Shi Ryung Pass. Bikes never pay tolls, tunnels, local highways ,, stay at the most right lane,, wave or smile as you pass. Do not get on the freeway! Use only local highways.
Bring a smart phone,, download Navigator Free GPS app. (Good for whole world) Preload some way points or favourites before leaving home, while you have data.
Also take a look at Sygic App for USD 50 ,, Russia and Europe data free GPS. Awesome program.

Follow the ICN to local In Cheon ferry post above,, get hold of me ,, I will guide you out of the city, on my Harley. Wendy's office is 20 minutes from me.

You need to bed down in Sok Cho by 19th. Ride from Seoul to Sok CHo is good 4-5 hours, including getting lost. Tons of motel in Sok Cho for USD 30-50 a night. You must be at the ferry office by 9AM ,, on board by 11AM.
https://maps.google.co.kr/maps?q=kor...ed=0CCcQ8gEwAA

Also get hold of biker clubs in Russia,, great source for friendship, repair and emergencies.
Железные Ангелы :: Категория (Vladivostok ,, get hold of Illiya
Церберус Get hold of Shem

You can also stay for free,, make sure you repay back with booze or din din. We call it Ssagaji in Korean (Good Manners)

Always take a little token , may be small Route 66 pins ,, dollar a piece ,, Americana. Or even half dollar coins!
I took mobile handle strings, with kitchy Korean dolls on them ,, they loved it. Ran out after a hundred,, next time will take 200.

Remember ,, as soon as your bike gets shipped and you land in foreign country,, unpack and the get on the seat.,, half of your journey is done. Keep your wits about you ,, use common sense ,, rely on humanity,, you will have a grandest time of your life.

I miss Korea, I was there 1966 through 1968. Coming back for a vacation is on my bucket list

Flyred,

Seouljoe was such a help to me and my travel buddy last year! He's right on :)
Enjoy Sok Cho for a few nights. Good sea food and sights for sure! It's such a lovely little place.
Please will you give Wendy a hug from me when you meet up with her? Wonderful lady.
Seouljoe, when are you coming to Canada? i have a bottle of good scotch to share with you!

Safe and wonderful travels to you all.

Nevil

Round the World 2013 on motorbikes
MotoExped - Home
Nevil | Nevil Stow | Travel Blog

Tie down straps needed?
 

I have taken the ferry across the Adriatic with my bike from Ancona Italy to Split Croatia but never a Sea voyage like this. Do I need tie down straps and are there "eyes" on the deck (floor) to strap the bike down to not tip over in rough seas?
I am guessing the answer is no to both questions but I had to ask:helpsmilie:

Close your eyes and remember the ferry ride from the Elbow (Ancona) to Dalmatia! (Split)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38jDQkkaxT8

All the strapping is done by the crew,,, under the deck!

Good old days,, 5 star hotel was 8 dollars a night ,, girls were natural (plastic surgery capital of the world) ,,people much more humane. Government sucked big time though.
Come back any time!