7 Irregular Flights Between Korea and China to Operate Additional Services Starting from the 17th

Large-scale service reductions and suspensions due to COVID-19 spread
Qingdao, Zhengzhou, Xiamen support overseas Koreans returning to China
Must possess PCR test certificate within 72 hours before boarding

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on the 14th that from the 17th, additional Korea-China irregular flights will operate to support overseas Koreans staying in Korea to return to China following the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

After China restricted flight operations due to the spread of COVID-19, air routes between Korea and China were significantly reduced or suspended. Overseas Koreans wishing to return to China have experienced inconveniences such as difficulties securing flight tickets. In fact, the number of regular routes in August sharply dropped from 84 at the end of last year to 16. The number of flights also decreased by more than 98%, from 1,164 per week to 21.

Accordingly, the government has continuously maintained close communication with the Chinese side, utilizing opportunities such as high-level Korea-China exchanges to ensure that our citizens can smoothly conduct essential activities, exchanges, and visits with China.

Among the irregular flights planned for additional operation, a total of seven flights departing from Incheon to three Chinese regions?Qingdao, Zhengzhou, and Xiamen?will operate from the 17th, with Korean and Chinese airlines sharing the routes.

Passengers intending to board these flights must strictly comply with quarantine rules, including possessing a PCR test (nucleic acid test) certificate taken within 72 hours before boarding. Detailed schedules and other specifics of irregular flights being coordinated with the Chinese side, beyond these seven flights, will be announced through airlines and the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in China’s website once finalized.

An official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged, "Since flight operation plans may change depending on the COVID-19 situation in both countries and airline preparations, it is necessary to confirm the final flight schedule with the airline before boarding."

The government plans to continue consultations with the Chinese side to enhance convenience for our citizens entering China, including increasing additional flight routes and alleviating difficulties in purchasing tickets.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.