South Korea is set to introduce a visa-free entry policy for Chinese tour groups in the third quarter of 2025, aiming to revitalize its tourism sector and attract millions of visitors from its largest inbound market.
The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism announced that organized groups from China, managed by authorized travel agencies, will be eligible for temporary visa exemptions under the new initiative.
The move is part of a broader effort to stimulate domestic demand and prepare for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, to be held in Gyeongju later this year. Final implementation details will be unveiled in April, following a period of public consultation.
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South Korea welcomed 16.4 million international visitors in 2024, with Chinese tourists accounting for 28% of total arrivals. Although the numbers have not yet reached pre-pandemic levels, officials are optimistic that this new policy will drive significant growth.
In addition, South Korea plans to launch themed tourism packages—featuring K-culture, cuisine, and sports—to appeal to younger Chinese travelers. The visa-free scheme aligns with regional trends, as more countries ease travel restrictions to promote tourism and economic cooperation.
