South Korea has rolled out a trial visa-free entry program for Chinese group tourists, effective September 29, 2024, through June 30, 2026. The initiative aims to revitalize tourism and stimulate economic activity amid shifting regional travel trends.
Under the new policy, groups of three or more travelers from China can visit South Korea without a visa for up to 15 days. Jeju Province continues its existing arrangement, permitting both individual and group visitors from China to stay visa-free for 30 days.
Chinese tourists remain pivotal to South Korea's tourism sector, accounting for 28.1% of all international arrivals in 2024, according to the Korea Tourism Organization. The 4.6 million Chinese visitors this year highlight the market's significance, with officials projecting that every additional million tourists could lift GDP by 0.08 percentage points.
Analysts suggest the policy reflects South Korea's dual focus: strengthening cultural ties while addressing post-pandemic economic recovery. The move is expected to benefit retail, hospitality, and transportation sectors, with ripple effects across regional economies.
