Korean Grand Prix F1 Packages
14th October 2012
Debuting in 2010 South Korea may be the most exotic of F1's current offerings, a far away race with a far away culture to give an experience to tantalise the motorsport fan and traveller alike.
New event teething troubles will be a thing of the past this year and BAM's first hand experiences of the event will ensure you gain the most from the Grand Prix in 2012 as well as BAM's personal advice on all F1 hospitality and viewing.
Grandstand options are many and varied, both in viewing and price. The Main Grandstand, the rook of which resembles the eaves of a traditional Korean ‘hanok’ house – has an outstanding view of the start/finish straight and pit garages and, depending on location of seat, a good view of either the first corner/pit exit or last corner/pit entrance. If you’re lucky you can see it all. The Main Grandstand is the only covered grandstand, a godsend if it rains again like 2010, and has a view of TV screens.
The three grandstands at turn one (A, B & L) offer an excellent view of any first corner action and the pit exit. Grandstand A in particular provides a great view of the grid as it faces the start line. The Grandstands at the back of the circuit provide views of the twisty, technical section of the track and most have a view of a TV screen.
The region surrounding the circuit is largely rural, underdeveloped and full of beautiful scenery, including the picturesque Yeongam Lake. The nearest town, Mokpo, is a lively place on Grand Prix weekend with several events taking place downtown in and around Peace Square including cultural and music performances and racing-themed exhibitions. Luxury hotels have not yet found this part of the world but there are numerous ‘Love’ Motels to choose from.
There are many bars and restaurants to suit all tastes, from western cuisine to traditional Korean dishes. A Korean barbecue is a must for those with an adventurous spirit. For those with more time to spare, check out the Dancing Sea Fountain located in front of the Peace Plaza or the Natural History Museum located in the Gatbawi district.
A trip to Korea wouldn’t be complete without a stay in its capital, Seoul. A vibrant, modern city, Seoul has a range of hotels from the luxurious international chains to the small family run establishments. A wide selection of restaurants and bars are complemented by a varied nightlife and an easily accessible metro system.
The Han River, running through the heart of the city, divides Seoul into the cultural and historical north and the southern business district. Visitors interested in the cultural history of Korea should take a trip to the beautiful Gyeongbok Palace, the first palace to be built by the founder of the Joseon Dynasty, located at the foot of Mt Bukak. For those that enjoy spending money head to the shopping districts of Insa-dong and Itaewan where international brands and bargains can be found.
A visit to Seoul would not be complete without a visit to Imjingak and the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) located just over 50kms north of the city. Various monuments and displays, including the Bridge of Freedom, Dora Observatory and 3rd Tunnel, detail the history of antagonism between the North & South that continues to this day. Word of caution – the 3rd Tunnel is 1,635m long and very steep and is not for the faint hearted!
New in 2010 the Korean International Circuit is located on the south west peninsula of Korea in the beautiful South Jeolla regions, around 370kms from the capital Seoul, a 4.5 hour drive or 3 hour train journey by KTX Express.
The nearest town, Mokpo, is a 30 minute drive in normal traffic conditions via the highway across the Youngsan River. The circuit itself is a 5.6km anti-clockwise track featuring a mixture of high, medium and slow speed corners. It has been described by drivers as ‘challenging’ and ‘interesting’ and has a 1.2km straight, the longest straight of any of the current Asian GP tracks.
It is part permanent race track, part street circuit – the street section being unique as it is yet to have any ‘streets’ surrounding it with the city of Jeollanam Do to be developed over the next few years.
To enquire about what BAM can offer at this event please call +44 (0)1442 891 500 or click the contact link below and one of our experienced team will be on hand to tailor make your event package.