Korea Welcomes Chinese Tourists Amid Rising Tensions

SEOUL, South Korea — Starting Monday, Chinese tour groups are allowed to enter Korea without a visa for a period of up to 15 days. This decision is expected to boost spending in the tourism and retail sectors but also raises concerns about tourist safety amidst escalating anti-China sentiment in the country.

The new policy allows Chinese tour groups with three or more members to visit Korea without a visa as part of a program running from September 29 to June 30 next year. This program is open to groups organized by government-designated travel agencies both in Korea and China.

Jeju Island will continue its existing visa-free policy, permitting both individual and group travelers to stay for up to 30 days. The decision follows China’s announcement of a similar visa-free policy for Korean nationals last November.

Prior to this change, Chinese tourists needed to apply for visas at Korean embassies or designated centers in China, which included submitting documents like round-trip tickets and hotel reservations. The Korea Tourism Organization reports that over 1.73 million foreign tourists visited Korea in July, with Chinese nationals making up 34.7 percent of that total.

The tourism industry, while not expecting an immediate surge, is ramping up efforts to attract Chinese group tours. Jeju Dream Tower Integrated Resort is offering discounts through WeChat Pay, while Shinsegae Duty Free is providing promotional bags and cashback for group visitors. Lotte Department Store also plans giveaways to enhance appeal.

Amid this optimistic outlook, the Chinese Embassy in Seoul has cautioned its citizens about potential safety issues, urging them to stay vigilant in light of recent anti-China protests in certain districts of Seoul. Protests involving right-wing groups have targeted Chinese nationals, particularly near the embassy in Myeong-dong.

In response to rising anti-China sentiment, President Lee Jae Myung has ordered officials to implement countermeasures against escalating protests. Prime Minister Kim Min-seok has instructed police to maintain order and ensure the safety of merchants and tourists alike.

As Korea prepares for an influx of Chinese tourists, the balance between economic opportunity and community safety continues to be a concern.