Visa-Free Entry Measures for Japan, Taiwan, and Macao Extended Until October

Temporary Visa-Free Extension Until October for Visitors from Japan, Taiwan, and Other 2nd-3rd Ranked Countries in Korean Tourism

On the 21st, citizens are waiting for tests at the COVID-19 testing center in Terminal 1 of Incheon International Airport. Photo by Mun Ho-nam munonam@

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] The visa-free entry measures for Japan, Taiwan, and Macau, which were resumed for the month of August, have been extended until October.

On the 31st, the Seoul Metropolitan Government cited the results of the '102nd Overseas Inflow Situation Evaluation Meeting' held on the 30th, attended by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, announcing that the visa-free entry measures for these countries and regions have been extended until October.

Previously, Seoul had led the government's temporary resumption of visa-free entry for Japan, Taiwan, and Macau for the month of August to expand the attraction of foreign tourists in connection with the hosting of 'Seoul Festa 2022.'

Furthermore, with the easing of quarantine measures such as the suspension of pre-entry PCR tests starting from the 3rd of next month, and the extension of the temporary visa-free entry for these three regions, travelers preparing for overseas trips from these areas are expected to have more opportunities to visit South Korea, Seoul, and directly experience the changed charm of Seoul travel.

However, since Korea has implemented the electronic travel authorization system (K-ETA) for visa-free entry countries (regions) since September last year, even if visa-free entry is resumed, travelers must apply for and obtain K-ETA approval by accessing the K-ETA website or mobile app at least 72 hours before departure to enter Korea.

Choi Kyung-joo, Director of Tourism and Sports Bureau of Seoul, said, "Although it is a temporary period in September and October, we hope that foreign tourists visiting Seoul during this time can experience the unknown charms of Seoul and return home. We will make our best policy efforts so that Seoul tourism, which is gradually opening up, can be fully revitalized and contribute to the local economy."

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