SEOUL, Sept 29 — In a bold move aimed at reinvigorating its tourism sector and strengthening diplomatic ties, South Korea has officially launched a visa-free entry program for Chinese tourist groups, effective today.
Under this pilot program, which will run until June 2026, tour groups from mainland China — with at least three members — can now visit South Korea for up to 15 days without a visa. The announcement comes strategically just before China’s National Day Golden Week (October 1–8) and coincides with multiple South Korean holidays, creating a window of opportunity for cultural exchange and economic boost.
A Strategic Move with Economic Intent
With tourism battered by the pandemic and geopolitical tensions, South Korea is making a calculated push to rekindle its allure to one of the world’s most lucrative traveler markets. In preparation, major businesses are moving swiftly to capitalize on the anticipated influx.
Shilla Duty Free has rolled out a large-scale cruise tour targeting Chinese travelers, carrying more than 2,700 passengers. Meanwhile, the popular delivery app Baedal Minjok has seamlessly integrated Alipay and WeChat Pay, catering to the spending habits of Chinese tourists.
Cruise Tourism Makes a Splash
Today, the 77,000-tonne cruise ship MS Dream, which departed from Tianjin, arrived at Incheon Port, carrying 2,189 passengers and 563 crew members. It’s more than just a port stop — it’s a symbol of renewal and hope for maritime tourism between the two nations.
Locals and tourists alike gathered as the ship docked just 30 kilometers west of Seoul, creating scenes of joy and cultural exchange. With waving hands, camera flashes, and smiling faces, the moment captured the essence of reconnection after years of distance.
Local Welcome, Global Message
The Incheon Port Authority and city government spared no effort to ensure a warm welcome. From food trucks serving local Korean delicacies to a city-hosted celebration in the downtown plaza, the atmosphere was both festive and heartfelt.
Lee Kyung-gyu, president of the Incheon Port Authority, described the event as more than just tourism:
“The MS Dream’s arrival will serve as a catalyst for revitalising maritime tourism between South Korea and China. We will do our best to expand cruise routes and help revive the local economy.”
Looking Beyond Tourism
This move is not only about tourism but also reflects South Korea’s broader diplomatic efforts. With Chinese President Xi Jinping expected to visit South Korea in late October for an Asia-Pacific summit, officials hope the visa-free policy can help lay the groundwork for improved bilateral relations.
