Korean Job Discussion Forums

[beekeeper3000]

Can someone make a sticky for this? I feel like I've asked this question before, but how much does it cost to ship a bicycle to North America from Korea? Can I take it with me on the plane? Should I just sell it and buy one when I get home?

[plattwaz]

I reckon it would depend on a lot of things -- like the airline, first. Check the airline you are flying with ... if you go on their website they will have information on sporting equipment, the fees and regulations. If it is not on the website then call the airline.

As for selling and buying here vs shipping, that is going to depend on the kind of bike you have. I mean, if you are looking at a random bike to ride around on weekends and to work and stuff, you can buy a bike here for anywhere between 100,000 - 250,000 won. If you are looking for something specific and special, then that's a different story.

[beekeeper3000]

yeah, i bought a new diamondback for 684,000 won in september. i wanted something durable and american (yes, i know it was probably made in china). just trying to do a little cost/benefit analysis.

korea air has nothing on their site about sports equipment. calling soon.

[Bulsajo]

I shipped a bike over on a Korean Air/Air Canada code shared flight.
Air Canada told me that they allow substitutions (no extra charge) of 1 one of your 2 allowed checked pieces of luggage for: golf clubs, music case, etc. and this includes a bike.
But you have to pack it yourself in a proper cardboard bike box.
I got one for free from a local sports store.
It was no problem at all.
What American airline does KAL codeshare with? Give them a call or check their website.

[Wangja]

KAL codeshares with Delta/Continental I believe. They are also in the NW grouping (KLM, Air France) but not code sharers - I think.

BTW, some years ago, I walked a bike up to check-in, unpacked. They accepted it, no quibbles. Not sure if that still works.