South Korea’s new visa-free policy for Chinese tour groups took effect on Monday, September 29th, with the government projecting an additional 1 million visitors by the program’s conclusion next June, according to The Korea Times.
Under the policy, Chinese tour groups of three or more people can enter South Korea without a visa for up to 15 days. The program, which runs through June 30th, 2026, applies to groups organized by government-designated travel agencies. The move follows China’s November decision to grant South Korean nationals visa-free entry for up to 15 days.
Previously, Chinese tourists were required to apply for visas at Korean embassies in China, submitting documentation such as flight tickets and hotel reservations. Jeju Island continues to maintain its separate visa-free policy, which permits stays of up to 30 days for both individual and group travelers.
Chinese visitors currently account for the largest share of foreign tourists to South Korea. In July, 602,147 Chinese nationals visited the country, representing 34.7 percent of the total 1.73 million foreign arrivals—a 31.2 percent year-on-year increase, according to the Korea Tourism Organization.
Most South Korean casinos admit only foreign visitors, making them heavily reliant on international tourism. As previously reported by AGB, major retailers and hospitality operators are also preparing for the anticipated influx. Jeju Dream Tower Integrated Resort has partnered with WeChat Pay for promotions, while Shinsegae Duty Free is offering special packages for groups of three or more.
However, the Chinese Embassy in Seoul issued a safety advisory on Friday, September 26th, warning citizens about anti-China protests, particularly in Seoul’s Myeong-dong and Daerim-dong districts. The embassy urged Chinese visitors to “stay vigilant” and “avoid political gatherings,” citing heightened anti-China sentiment following recent domestic political developments.
In response, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung instructed officials to develop countermeasures against the rising number of anti-China rallies, while Prime Minister Kim Min-seok directed police to maintain order in affected areas.
