Move aims to boost tourism and regional ties ahead of 2026 Asia-Pacific summit.
South Korea will temporarily allow visa-free entry to tourist groups from China starting September 29, in a bid to revive its tourism sector and improve bilateral relations, the government announced Wednesday.
The visa exemption will remain in effect until June 2026, aligning with South Korea’s efforts to prepare for the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit, which the country is set to host next year.
According to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the move is designed to attract more foreign visitors, particularly from China traditionally one of South Korea’s largest sources of inbound tourists.
“We hope this initiative will reinvigorate the tourism industry and strengthen cultural exchange between the two countries,” a government spokesperson said during a press briefing in Seoul.
The visa-free program applies to group travelers arriving through select regional airports and cruise ports, and travelers must be part of a pre-approved tour package.
The announcement follows China’s decision last November to grant visa free entry to South Korean nationals and travelers from several other countries, a gesture aimed at promoting tourism and improving diplomatic relations in the Asia-Pacific region.
Tourism Recovery in Focus:
South Korea has seen a gradual rebound in tourist arrivals following the COVID-19 pandemic, but the industry has yet to return to pre-pandemic levels. In 2016, more than 8 million Chinese tourists visited South Korea. That number dropped significantly in recent years due to political tensions and travel restrictions.
Industry experts believe the temporary visa waiver could lead to a surge in arrivals, especially during upcoming holiday periods in China such as Golden Week in October.
