In a landmark move set to reshape regional tourism and economic dynamics, the Republic of Korea (ROK) will implement a nine-month visa-free policy for Chinese tour groups starting September 29, 2025. This reciprocal gesture follows China's unilateral visa exemption for ROK visitors in November 2024, signaling warming ties between the two Asian neighbors.
The policy arrives as Seoul seeks to revitalize its retail and hospitality sectors through what industry analysts call "the Chinese tourism multiplier effect." Pre-pandemic data reveals Chinese travelers accounted for nearly half of all foreign visitors to the ROK in 2016, spending an average of $1,689 per person – significantly more than other international tourists.
"This isn't just about filling hotel rooms," observed a Seoul-based economist. "Chinese tourists directly support 3% of ROK's retail workforce. Their return could inject $2.8 billion into local economies by 2026." Flight searches to Seoul surged 70% on Chinese platforms within hours of the August announcement, with travel agencies reporting sold-out Golden Week packages.
Beyond economics, the visa shift carries diplomatic weight. It comes amid broader efforts to stabilize relations following previous tensions over security arrangements. While tourism numbers remain below 2019's six million Chinese visitors, the 2024 rebound to 4.6 million suggests strong recovery momentum.
ROK businesses are preparing for the influx, with duty-free operators expanding Mandarin-speaking staff and hotels reintroducing lunar calendar breakfast services. As one Incheon hotel manager noted: "This policy isn't temporary relief – it's a bridge to lasting economic partnership."
