Foreign Tourist Entry Procedures Simplified

 The South Korean government has announced new measures to simplify entry procedures and extend stay durations for foreign tourists. These initiatives are aimed at promoting tourism spending and enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

Foreign Tourist

Streamlined Visa Issuance and Entry Procedures

To address the inconvenience faced by foreign tourists, the government plans to increase visa screening staff and expand visa application centers. This will shorten the processing time for tourist visas from countries with high inbound tourism rates. Additionally, a pilot program for the 'K-Culture Training Visa' will be launched within the year, targeting foreigners interested in K-Pop and other cultural experiences.

Enhanced Convenience for Cruise Tourists

The government is also focusing on cruise tourists by reducing immigration processing times through the installation of additional automated inspection stations. Cruise terminal operating hours will be extended to allow for longer stays, providing tourists more time to explore.

Improved Transportation Support

Direct flight routes between regional airports and international cities will be expanded. For instance, new routes such as Busan-Jakarta and Cheongju-Bali will be established, and the frequency of Daegu-Ulaanbaatar flights will increase. Additionally, discussions are ongoing to increase flight rights with countries like the Philippines.

To facilitate baggage-free travel, a luggage delivery service from KTX stations to hotels will be extended from the current nine stations to sixteen, including new additions like Daejeon, Dongdaegu, and Gwangju-Songjeong. The 'Easy Drop' service, which allows tourists to check their luggage outside the airport before departure, will also be expanded.

Improved Navigation and Public Transportation

Foreign tourists will find it easier to navigate using local map apps, which will now provide translated reviews in English and Chinese. A special transportation card for tourists will be available for purchase on inbound flights, allowing mobile app-based prepayment with foreign credit cards. This initiative aims to enhance the convenience of public transportation use for tourists.

Unique Experiences and Shopping Convenience

To offer unique experiences, the government will expand programs that allow tourists to enjoy aspects of Korean daily life, such as 'K-Lifestyle' experiences featuring activities like chimaek (chicken and beer) and instant photo booths.

The creation of integrated tourism complexes will be promoted, enabling the establishment of facilities with different purposes, such as accommodation, leisure, and shopping, within a single area. Additionally, support will be provided for the exposure and promotion of products from excellent Korean SMEs in Hallyu (Korean Wave) video content, encouraging tourists to purchase these products during their visit.

Support for Local Businesses and Fair Pricing

Efforts to resolve chronic labor shortages in the restaurant industry in key tourist areas will include evaluating pilot projects and potentially expanding the scope of foreign employment permits (E-9). To cater to the increasing number of Southeast Asian tourists, the training of multilingual tour guides will be expanded.

Local governments will incorporate price management efforts for regional festivals into their assessments to prevent overcharging and ensure a positive perception of tourism in South Korea. Joint inspections will be conducted to crack down on overpricing and unfair practices at local festivals and resorts.

Conclusion