Luggage and baggage policies

Domestic low-cost carriers in South Korea (e.g., Jeju Air) generally offer free check-in via websites or airport kiosks. While online check-in is standard, some routes or airlines may require international passengers to visit a check-in counter; this service is typically provided free of charge.

When transiting through China to South Korea, baggage procedures depend on your ticketing. If you have a single booking, your luggage will be checked through to your final destination. If you have separate tickets, you will likely need to collect your baggage and re-check it. For flights with Chinese carriers, inquire at the check-in counter in your origin country if they can check your luggage directly to Seoul, even if you have separate tickets with different airlines. Carriers like Southern China may accommodate this.

Hand luggage weight and personal item restrictions are enforced at Incheon Airport (ICN), though enforcement can vary by airline and individual staff. Minor overweight allowances (1-2 kg) are sometimes permitted, but it is advisable to adhere strictly to airline regulations to avoid having items removed or discarded. Checking with the specific airline regarding their policies is recommended.

Some convenience store chains in South Korea, like CU and GS25, may offer parcel delivery services between their branches. The feasibility of sending specific items, such as a vinyl record, depends on the item's dimensions and the specific service's limitations. It's recommended to check the maximum allowable dimensions and weight for packages with the respective convenience store chain to determine if the item can be sent.

Standard sedan taxis in South Korea have limited luggage capacity. For groups or travelers with more than 3 large suitcases, booking a 'large taxi' (van-type) is necessary.

Domestic flights within South Korea (e.g., Seoul to Jeju) do not require a formal passport control for entry/exit but do involve strict ID verification at the check-in desk. It is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure if checking baggage. Security screening for hand luggage is standard; regulations regarding prohibited items like liquids are much more relaxed compared to international flights.

Luggage storage service is available at Gimpo Airport (near Gate 2). Users need to scan a QR code to register and pay. Accepted payment methods include cash and WOWPASS. Prices vary based on duration and luggage size (e.g., approximately 150,000 KRW for a large suitcase for one week).

Even with separate airline tickets (non-interline), it is often possible to request baggage interlining at the point of origin to reach the final destination, which can allow transit passengers to remain in the airside area and avoid passport control.

Interline baggage check-through depends on the specific agreements between airlines. Even if flights are booked separately, check-in agents can often tag luggage to the final destination. Always verify luggage status at the initial departure airport.

In the Hongdae area of Seoul, luggage storage lockers are available 24/7 near Exit 7 of the Wausan-ro 29-gil street (56-10 Wausan-ro 29-gil, Mapo-gu).

If you receive two boarding passes at check-in for connecting flights, it usually means your luggage has been checked through to your final destination, and you will not need to re-check it during transit.