South Korea is rolling out a new visa-free policy for Chinese tour groups. The move aims to boost tourism and economic growth. Officials will announce full details in April. The policy is set to take effect in the third quarter of 2025.
Acting President and Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok shared the plan. The policy will allow conditional visa-free entry for Chinese travelers arriving by air or land. While it may not dramatically shift tourism in Northeast Asia, it strengthens South Korea’s appeal as a travel destination.
Last year, South Korea revived its visa-free policy for cruise passengers. Eligible tourists could stay for up to 90 days. By late 2024, the country introduced a special exemption for Chinese cruise travelers, permitting three-day stays. The new policy expands these efforts, covering more travel options.
Tourism in South Korea is rebounding. In January 2025, inbound travel rose 27% compared to the previous year. Numbers were 39% higher than pre-pandemic levels. Still, Japan saw a 41% increase in the same period, highlighting its stronger tourism infrastructure. South Korea has room to grow, especially in smaller cities.
To maximize the policy’s impact, South Korea must diversify attractions beyond major hubs. Investing in smaller cities’ tourism infrastructure could unlock further growth. The visa-free plan marks a key step in drawing more Chinese visitors—and fueling the country’s tourism recovery.
