In a bid to revitalise its tourism sector and strengthen diplomatic ties, South Korea has announced that it will grant visa-free entry to Chinese tourist groups from September 29, 2025, through June 2026. The move, unveiled by the government on Wednesday, is part of broader efforts to boost foreign arrivals ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, scheduled to take place in Gyeongju from October 31 to November 1.
The policy follows China’s earlier decision in November 2024 to offer visa exemptions to South Korean and other foreign travellers. In response, South Korea had first floated its own visa-free offer in March 2025, which has now been formalised to coincide with China’s national holiday season in early October.
According to South Korea’s tourism ministry, the timing of the initiative is strategic. With an expected rise in travel during the Chinese holiday period and the upcoming APEC forum — which may feature bilateral talks between Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump — officials hope the move will stimulate the domestic economy and attract more foreign spending.
The visa waiver is also seen as a gesture of goodwill amid hopes for improved ties under South Korea’s new liberal president, Lee Jae Myung, whose administration is seeking to reset the diplomatic tone with Beijing.
As foreign tourist numbers begin to rebound following years of pandemic-related downturns, South Korea is positioning itself to regain competitiveness in the regional tourism market. Authorities say further incentives and support measures will be discussed to sustain the momentum beyond the APEC summit.
Melissa Enoch
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