The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) has announced updated designations for priority and quarantine management regions for the second quarter of 2026. This policy aims to mitigate the risk of importing infectious diseases such as plague, avian influenza, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), and Nipah virus infection. The regions are selected based on global disease trends and risk assessments, with the goal of protecting public health and ensuring effective border control. The KDCA reviews and updates these designations quarterly, reflecting changes in disease outbreaks and international health conditions.
The policy directly impacts travelers arriving in South Korea from the 21 designated priority quarantine regions. These regions include specific countries and areas where high-risk infectious diseases are prevalent or pose a significant threat. For example, plague is monitored in Madagascar, Mongolia, New Mexico (USA), and the Democratic Republic of Congo; avian influenza in Washington (USA), Bangladesh, China (specific provinces), India, and Cambodia; MERS in 13 Middle Eastern countries; and Nipah virus in Bangladesh and India. Travelers from these regions must submit a Q-CODE electronic health declaration or a health questionnaire to quarantine officers upon arrival.
Implementation of the updated designations begins on April 1, 2026, following a reduction from 24 to 21 countries compared to the previous quarter. The removal of Mexico, Vietnam, and Ethiopia from the list reflects changes in disease activity, such as the end of Marburg fever outbreaks and decreased avian influenza risk. In addition to the priority regions, 172 countries are designated as general quarantine management regions, requiring travelers to report symptoms like fever or cough if present. Detailed country lists and guidance are available on the KDCA and Q-CODE websites.
Frequently asked questions include: What is required for travelers from priority quarantine regions? They must submit a Q-CODE or health questionnaire to report symptoms. How are regions selected? Designations are based on quarterly risk assessments and expert committee reviews. Where can travelers find updated lists? The KDCA and Q-CODE websites publish official notices and guidance. The KDCA urges travelers to check infection information before departure and to comply with health reporting requirements upon entry.
The KDCA’s quarterly designation of priority quarantine regions is a targeted response to evolving global infectious disease risks. By mandating Q-CODE or health questionnaire submissions for travelers from high-risk areas, South Korea enhances its border health surveillance. The reduction in designated countries shows adaptability to changing disease patterns, while ongoing monitoring ensures timely updates. Accessible information and clear requirements help travelers comply, supporting national public health objectives.