The South Korean government extended the temporary exemption for visitors from select countries from the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) requirement.

Key Points:

  • In March, South Korean authorities announced travelers from 22 countries, including Australia, Canada, Japan, Singapore and many EU countries, did not need to apply for a K-ETA before entering the country until Dec. 31, 2024.
  • The Ministry of Justice has now extended the temporary extension until Dec. 31, 2025.
  • Officials stated travelers from countries exempt from K-ETA are still allowed to apply for it to receive benefits such as not having to submit an arrival card upon entering the country.
  • K-ETA application fees are non-refundable, and individuals who have obtained a K-ETA may continue to use it until the expiration date.

Additional Information:  A full list of countries whose travelers are exempt from K-ETA is available here; travelers from 89 countries, including Ireland, Mexico, Russia, South Africa and Switzerland, must apply for K-ETA before traveling to South Korea.

BAL Analysis: The extension of the temporary exemption is designed to stimulate the tourism industry by simplifying entry processes for foreign nationals wanting to travel to the country.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group.

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