Asia - Seoul on Lunar new year

Hi

I have a 10 hour connection at ICN on Feb 9th 2005 which happens to be right in thr middle of the lunar new year celebrations. What should I expect in the city if I decide to leave the airport - what is closed and what is open?

Also, I understand the roads are all full with travelers on the holiday - does it affect the road to/from the airport?

Thanks,

apirchik

ICN is along way from the city. An hour in limo, longer by bus. It is a fast main road most of the time, until you get to the centre of town. It all depends on time of day and where you want to go of course.

Google brought up the following:

http://www.airport.or.kr/Eng/home.jsp

http://www.visitseoul.net/

Most shops and restaurants will be closed and a big part of the population will have returned to their hometowns all over Korea to celebrate New Year with their families and friends. Best chances to find something open might be in Itaewon where shops and restaurants mainly serve American GIs and other foreign residents.

The airport road should be quiet at that time as most people will be heading towards the South from Seoul.

Better bet than visit central Seoul might be to check ahead with the Airport Hyatt or other area hotels if their Spa and restaurants are open and book a massage and restaurant table.