Seoul Competitor FAQs

Are you competing in 2017? We’ve gathered answers to some frequently asked questions, and some handy resources to help your competition experience, and your trip to Seoul!

Is there something you need that isn’t listed on the resource list? Have a question about public transportation? Want to know where to find the best soju? Email compinfo@worldcoffeeevents.org, and we’ll look into it!

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve compiled a list of rules and hospitality questions you might have about your time in Seoul. Have a question that isn’t already on here? Submit it above!

Rules & Regulations

A: The Rules & Regulations specify that the same preparation space and tools available to all competitors, but in this case the committee has determined that a platform/step can be accommodated for reaching the equipment, since the intention is not to limit accessibility.

A: No, any physical modification of the sponsored grinder or espresso machine is not allowed.

A: Automatic tamping machines are allowed in the competition. They will be counted as one of the two allowable electrical devices.

A: Coffee may be roasted in parchment. However, coffee may not be ground or brewed with parchment as it is considered an additive as laid out in rule 2.2.B and 2.2.C.

A: Yes. Foam can be created in this way, as long as the competitor steams the milk using the provided machine according to the technical protocol in the rules.

A: For all courses and rounds, regardless of drink or ingredient, only the sponsor-provided espresso machine may be used.

A: Adding water to the basket starts an extraction separate from the extraction initiated by the group head. This would count as more than one continuous extraction, and would not be allowed.

A: The rules state that no alcohol is permitted in the signature drink. To verify this, the Head Judge would reference the ingredients from which the drink is made, including the solution. If no ingredient packaging is available the decision would be at the discretion of the Head Judge, who can penalize accordingly.

A: As long as the provided grinder is used onstage during competition time, this will be allowed.

A: Each morning, Nuova Simonelli technicians will check every machine for calibration. Data from each machine will be recorded and checked by WCE Staff. No other data or information will be collected or recorded using any other equipment or sources.

Logistics

A: The competitor orientation meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 8th from 12:30-14:00 at the WBC stage. Attending the orientation meeting is mandatory: competitors who do not attend the orientation meeting may be disqualified.

A: Competitors will be able to access the backstage area after orientation has completed (2PM). The backstage area will not be available to competitors before this time.

A: Our show host can provide Visa Invitation Letters for competitors and coaches. Send a scan of your passport page to compinfo@worldcoffeeevents.org to get your invitation letter. Please remember that Cafe Show and WCE do not have control over the visa issuing process and cannot guarantee a positive outcome.
A: No, a badge for you and one (1) badge for your coach will be available at the site entrance. Additional supporters and coaches will need to purchase tickets directly from Cafe Show, here.

Only competitors and one coach are allowed in the competitor backstage (rule 5.2). Competitor entourages may be permitted backstage, only with the permission of the Stage Manager, and the Stage Manager has the authority to ask anyone to leave the competitor backstage, for any reason.

If you plan to have anyone capturing photos or videos either backstage or onstage, they are required to register using this form.

Visiting Seoul

A: Public transit is generally excellent in Seoul, and taxis are plentiful. You can find some more information in this post here.

A: Our host, Cafe Show have a range of recommendations nearby the convention centre. Options are available for a range of budgets, and preferential rates are available for show visitors, so it’s best to book through the host portal.

The Competition Experience

A: Smallwares will not be available backstage, but some options for purchasing are listed below.

A: Seoul Milk is the Official Milk sponsor of the WBC, and their products will be available backstage and at Barista Base Camp. Products specifications are available below.

Barista’s Milk (Only available at WBC and Barista Base Camp)

  • Developed to be used in espresso milk beverages
  • Rich froth due to small fat globules
  • Composition: 3g protein, 4g fat, 5g carbohydrate, 5g sugar per 100ml

Me 100% Milk (Available at grocery stores, at WBC and at Barista Base Camp)

  • Certified with the highest grade bacterial and somatic cell count
  • Composition: 3g protein, 4g fat, 4.5g carbohydrate, 4.5g sugar per 100ml

Q: A couple of options north of the city and close to the Expo Center are listed below.

Namdaemun Market (남대문시장)

One of the largest traditional markets that sells a variety of goods. The official website offers a comprehensive list of store categories and the wares they sell.

Address: Namdaemunsijang 4-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

Hours: Vary depending on store, with most closed on Sundays

Official Website, VisitKorea tips

Hyundai Department Store COEX

This is the closest option to the Expo Center. Kitchen and dining wares are available from retailers on floor 9F, with fresh ingredients stocked in the grocery on B1.

Address: 159-7 Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Hours: 10:30 AM – 8:00 PM

Website

Q: Yes, there are a few options which can be ordered over the phone only.