The South Korean government has announced a sweeping set of tourism policies aimed at ushering in an era of 30 million foreign visitors. These reforms are designed to capitalize on favorable international conditions and the global popularity of K-culture. The policies were unveiled during the 11th National Tourism Strategy Meeting, attended by Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, 15 central ministries, and industry stakeholders. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism identified this period as a ‘golden time’ for tourism growth, emphasizing a coordinated, cross-ministerial approach.
The new measures impact foreign tourists, local businesses, and regional communities. Key actions include a visa-free pilot for Indonesian group tourists, five-year multiple-entry visas for citizens from 11 Southeast Asian and Chinese countries, and ten-year multiple-entry visas for residents of major cities. The government will expand international routes at regional airports, introduce expedited cruise immigration procedures, and enhance local tourism marketing. Accommodation policies will be unified and improved, with quality certification and regulatory adjustments to support hotel investment.
Implementation began with the June 25, 2025 announcement, and several initiatives will roll out from 2025 through 2029. Regional airport international flights will be increased, and new domestic connections from Incheon Airport will be established. The ‘Korea Visit Year’ campaign will run from 2025 to 2029, supported by public-private partnerships. Accommodation reforms, cruise terminal upgrades, and new tourism products are scheduled for phased introduction, including pilot programs for discounted travel and expanded worker vacation support.
Frequently asked questions include: Who benefits from the new visa policies? Citizens of Indonesia, Southeast Asia, and China, as well as residents of major cities, will see easier entry. What are the main regional tourism enhancements? Expanded airport routes, cruise terminal upgrades, and local tourism marketing will boost regional travel. How will accommodation standards change? The government will unify regulations, introduce quality certification, and support hotel investment. What steps are being taken against price gouging? Legal penalties for non-compliance and new consumer protections are being implemented.
South Korea’s tourism policy overhaul is grounded in data-driven strategies and cross-ministerial cooperation. By targeting visa facilitation, regional airport expansion, and cruise tourism, the government aims to diversify visitor demographics and boost local economies. Accommodation reforms and anti-price gouging measures address quality and consumer protection, enhancing the overall travel experience. The phased implementation and public-private partnerships indicate a sustainable, long-term vision for tourism growth.