A day at the races Korean style

The betting slips in the Foreigner Hospitality Suite are in English, but those in the course proper are in Korean. This presents a small obstacle for those wishing to mix it with the locals but nothing that one with a modicum of race-betting knowledge cannot work out.

The Foreigner Hospitality Suite has been established by the KRA to accommodate those non-Koreans who want to enjoy the Korean racing Scene. The suite is located on the sixth floor of the grandstand and entry to the area is free. On presentation of a passport (or alien card), foreigners can enter this spacious and well appointed area, make use of the free English language form guides and bet at windows with English speaking operators. Currency exchange is also available for those who have experienced an unfortunately long losing streak.

Furthermore, the rooms offer a selection of meals and beverages and access to the grandstand outside where one can cheer their chosen nag from the start to the winning post.

In order to maintain a comfortable and hassle free environment, the foreigners’ area is limited to 230 guests and the KRA suggests that reservations be made on: 02-509-1221/2 (Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays) and on 02-509-1217(on raceday) Reservations can also be made by fax on: 02-509-1219. Dress is neat and casual. You can access the KRA website at http://www.kra.co.kr/ekra2001/eindex.htm

All in all a day at the races, Korean style, is a pleasant and worthwhile way both to experience something familiar and to gain a little bit of insight into the modern day Korean. You may even end up winning a little bit of money.

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