During this year's Lunar New Year holiday, Incheon International Airport is expecting around 720,000 travelers to head abroad from January 13 to 18. The most popular destination among these travelers is Japan, with approximately 185,432 individuals choosing to visit the country. Following Japan, China is set to receive around 123,486 travelers, while Southeast Asian countries are expected to host about 204,084 people, and European destinations about 35,740 travelers. This trend indicates a preference for shorter trips to nearby locations, likely influenced by the relatively brief holiday duration this year.

The peak travel day at Incheon International Airport is forecasted to be January 14, when over 130,675 passengers are expected to depart. Conversely, the last day of the holiday, January 18, is predicted to have the lowest number of travelers, with approximately 104,721 individuals. As the holiday period typically brings a surge in airport visitors, Incheon International Airport Corporation has implemented special transportation measures, including the allocation of 4,550 additional parking spaces to accommodate the influx of travelers. Furthermore, travelers are advised to arrive at the airport three hours prior to their flights to ensure a smoother travel experience.

A spokesperson for the airport has warned that arriving too early could lead to increased congestion at the terminals, and they urge travelers to utilize public transportation and smart services to enhance their airport experience. This focus on efficient travel is crucial for managing the expected high volume of passengers during the holiday season, especially as travel trends show a strong inclination towards nearby destinations during this festive time.