Conference Location:

Seoul, South Korea

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a dynamic city where centuries-old traditions coexist with cutting-edge trends driven by modern K-culture. As the political, economic, and cultural heart of the nation, it thrives as a vibrant metropolis that draws people from all corners of the country. With its rich history, diverse artistic expressions, renowned cuisine, and world-class shopping, Seoul offers an unparalleled experience, making it a distinct global destination.

November 10, 2025 to November 12, 2025

Location

DFRWS APAC 2025 will take place at the COEX Magok Le West (143 Magokjungang-ro, Gangseo-gu, Seoul, South Korea) in the Magok district, which is emerging as a new business hub in Seoul. Located in Gangseo-gu, Seoul, the Magok Industrial Complex serves as a key R&D area, driving the development of next-generation technologies, fostering strategic industries, and promoting international cooperation. With its prime location near the airport, cutting-edge industrial ecosystem, abundant green spaces, and state-of-the-art infrastructure, Magok is quickly becoming a sought-after destination for leading companies and research institutions.

❖  Main Conference (+ Workshops)

• COEX Magok Le West, 143 Magokjungang-ro, Gangseo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

❖  Lunch

• Moasis | Mercure Seoul Magok, 143, Magokjungang-ro, Gangseo-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea

❖  Gata Dinner (Awards Banquet + Forensics Rodeo)

• TBD

Transportation

To attend the conference in South Korea, there are two international airport options: Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP).
Incheon International Airport (ICN) is located approximately 40 kilometers from the venue and takes about 40 minutes by car via Expressway 130. Gimpo International Airport is much closer—only about 3 kilometers away—and it takes around 10 minutes by car using city roads.
While GMP is the closest airport to the conference venue, most international flights arrive at ICN. Fortunately, both airports are well connected to the city through bus, subway and airport express train lines that stop near the venue, making transportation easy and convenient. For example, there are convenient ground transportation options available from ICN:

❖  By Train from ICN

• Airport Railroad Express (AREX) Train – approx. 50 min
  Get off at Magongnaru Station (Exit No. 2 or 6) → 200 meters, 5 min on foot to the venue

❖  By Bus from ICN

• Seoul Airport Bus No. 6003 – approx. 50 min
  Get off at Magok Station (Metro Line 5) → 750 meters, 10-15 min on foot to the venue

Accommodation

The Magok district offers a variety of hotels and accommodation options. The following hotels are all within walking distance of the venue and have been selected to meet different budgets and preferences.

• Mercure Ambassador Seoul Magok (4-star⭐⭐⭐⭐) [link]

Located within the same complex as the conference venue, this hotel offers the most convenient access for attendees.

A special rate is available for conference participants during the conference period; however, depending on the booking date, it may be cheaper to reserve through the official Accor website or other online booking platforms.

We recommend comparing prices and choosing the most cost-effective option. If you would like to book using the special rate provided by the hotel, please click here.

• Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Botanic Park (4-star ⭐⭐⭐⭐) [link]

About a 5-minute walk from the venue, this hotel is located next to Seoul Botanic Park. Please note that no special rate is offered for conference participants.

• Hotel MFELICE (3-star ⭐⭐⭐) [link]

• The First Stay Hotel (3-star ⭐⭐⭐) [link]

These hotels are located a bit farther from the venue but offer more affordable rates. Both are about a 25-minute walk from the venue or roughly 10 minutes by local bus (Routes 6645 or 6648).

Travel Arrangements for International Visitors

Nationals of visa-waiver countries can enter the Republic of Korea without a visa for short-term stays (up to 90 days), including for conference participation. However, unless exempted, travelers must obtain K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) approval prior to boarding their flight. For reference, travelers from the following 22 countries are temporarily exempt from K-ETA until December 31, 2025.

• Asia (5): Hong Kong, Japan, Macao, Singapore, Taiwan
• Americas (2): Canada, United States
• Europe (13): Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom
• Oceania (2): Australia, New Zealand

Please note that even if you are from a K-ETA exempt country, you may still choose to apply for K-ETA in order to receive certain benefits—such as being exempt from submitting an arrival card upon entry.

Nationals of non-visa waiver countries must apply for a short-term visa prior to entering the Republic of Korea.

Below is a list of useful websites for your visit to Korea:

KOREA VISA PORTAL
Korea Tourism Organization