From October 3rd to October 9th, 2023, the APL (Asia Poker League) will be held in Seoul, South Korea, at the Swiss Grand Hotel, one of the major tournaments in Korea.
APL Seoul
Date: October 3, 2023, to October 9, 2023
Location: Seoul, South Korea, Swiss Grand Hotel
Prize Pool: KRW 2,500,000,000
This tournament is expected to attract a significant number of Korean and foreign players. Notably, Joseph Cheong, a Korean-American player with a cumulative prize pool earnings exceeding $100 million, has already confirmed his participation.
The event will feature 19 different tournaments, including the WSOP Paradise Package Satellite.
The highly anticipated Main Event will offer 10 tickets for entry, with a guaranteed prize pool of KRW 1,100,000,000 based on 1365 entries.
The Main Event’s feature table action will be broadcasted via the YouTube 2ACE channel (link: https://youtube.com/@2ace?si=erf_NGZjVLowWRJL).
- Transportation
If you’re coming by car, it’s recommended to use the hotel’s parking facilities. During the APL event, you can use the spacious Swiss Grand Hotel parking for free.
If you plan to use public transportation in Korea, you’ll need a T-Money transportation card, which can be easily purchased at subway stations or convenience stores (similar to Japan’s Suica system).
If you’re taking the subway, you should get off at Hongje Station on Line 3 and then walk for about 15 minutes. Since the walking distance is not short, it’s advisable to transfer to a bus or take a taxi after the subway ride. You can also use the ‘Konest’ app to conveniently access real-time subway information.
If you’re arriving directly from Incheon Airport, you can take the 6005 airport bus. Just purchase a ticket at the airport’s ticket counter or through automatic vending machines. Get off at the Grand Hilton Hotel (formerly known as Swiss Grand Hotel). The fare for adults is 17,000 KRW.
For those arriving at Gimpo Airport, it’s recommended to take the Airport Railroad and transfer to a bus. Take the Airport Railroad toward Magoknaru from Gimpo Airport Station. Transfer at Hongik University Station by taking a taxi or transferring to buses 163 or 110A. Get off at Swiss Grand Hotel Station. (Subway and bus fare: approximately 1,700 KRW, Subway and taxi: around 8,500 KRW)
Naver Map is a popular mapping app in Korea, and it offers comprehensive support for the Japanese language. Installing it before your trip is recommended, as Naver Map provides many useful features such as finding nearby restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores.
- Sightseeing
One of the prominent attractions near the Swiss Grand Hotel is Gyeongbokgung Palace. Gyeongbokgung is a majestic traditional palace in Korea known for its grand architecture and is a popular destination for foreign tourists.
The famous traditional market in Korea, Gwangjang Market, is also nearby. Gwangjang Market is renowned for its various culinary offerings, including traditional Korean pancakes (bindaetteok) and beef tartare (yukhoe). It’s a must-visit tourist spot.
Furthermore, if you head towards Hongdae, you can experience the vibrant nightlife and bustling streets of Seoul. While Seoul itself is always bustling with people, Hongdae stands out as a lively district that never sleeps.
If you’re interested in shopping, it’s recommended to visit The Hyundai Seoul and Shinsegae Department Stores in downtown Seoul.
– Restaurant Recommendations
If you happen to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, I recommend trying a Michelin 1-star restaurant located within a 10-minute walk from the palace. It’s a renowned soy crab dish restaurant called “Keun Giwa Jib” (Address: 22 Bukchon-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul).
For pizza lovers, there’s a famous pizza place that has been featured on Korean television. It’s conveniently located very close to the hotel. Please note that they only offer takeout, and dine-in is not available. You can find it at “Pizza Island” (Address: 377 Yeonhui-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul).
If you enjoy spicy food, I highly recommend trying tteokbokki, one of the most iconic and spicy Korean dishes. Near the hotel’s nearby subway station, Hongje Station, you can find a delicious tteokbokki restaurant called “Bullanjib” (Address: 445 Tongil-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul).
I hope you have a great 7-day series in Korea, and may it lead to wonderful experiences, both in your travels and poker career.
