General Information

◈ Venue
The 9th CIC will be held At October 25~28 in J. W. Marriott Hotel, Seoul, Korea

◈ Language
The official language of the conference is English.

◈ Currency Exchange
Only Korean Won (KRW) is acceptable at regular stores and restaurants. Current exchange rate is 1,150won per 1USD(July 13, 2004). Certain foreign currencies and credit cards may be accepted at a limited number of hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops. You can buy Won at foreign exchange banks and hotel front desk on presentation of your passport. Most banks in Korea are open from 09:30 a.m. to 16:30 p.m. on Monday to Friday.(Saturdays is holiday)

◈ Tax & Tipping
Tipping is usually not customized in Korea, but it is appropriate for the excellent service. In major tourist hotels, 10% VAT and 10% service charge is added to the bills for rooms, meals and other services.

◈ Traveler's Check & Credit Card
Traveler's checks are accepted by leading banks and hotels in principal cities, and the use of traveler's checks in Korea is not as popular as in some other countries. Master card, Diners club, Visa and American Express are widely accepted at hotels, department stores, restaurants and other shopping mall.

◈ Climate
Korea lies in the temperate zone and has four distinct seasons : spring, summer, fall and winter. Late October and early November are in the middle of autumn, the most beautiful season in the year. The average temperature for the duration in Seoul will be around 9 ~ 10 degree Celsius respectively. You are advised to bring heavy sweaters together with jackets.

◈ Visa
Citizens of countries which have reciprocal visa exemption agreement with Korea are not required to have a visa to enter Korea for a short stay. Citizens of all other countries must obtain a visa from a Korean Embassy or Consulate prior to entering Korea. For further information, please contact the nearest Korean Consulate.


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