Which city in South Korea is visa-free?

Visa-Free Entry to Jeju Island: An Important Travel Note

Jeju Island, a renowned tourist destination in South Korea, offers visa-free entry for visitors from many countries. However, it is essential to be aware of a critical restriction that applies to this exemption: it is only valid for direct flights to Jeju Island.

If you plan to connect through mainland South Korea before reaching Jeju Island, regardless of your final destination, you will require a visa. This restriction is crucial for international visitors to note before booking their trip to avoid any unexpected delays or inconveniences upon arrival.

The visa requirement for those connecting through mainland South Korea is imposed to ensure proper immigration control and prevent potential security risks. Visitors who enter South Korea through mainland airports must undergo the usual visa screening process, including passport verification, visa checks, and potentially an interview with immigration officials.

To ensure a seamless and hassle-free trip to Jeju Island, international visitors are strongly advised to book direct flights that land directly on the island. This will allow them to take advantage of the visa-free entry exemption without having to go through any visa procedures.

For those who wish to travel to Jeju Island from other parts of South Korea, such as Seoul or Busan, there are regular domestic flights available. However, it is important to note that these domestic flights do not qualify for visa-free entry. Therefore, visitors should obtain the appropriate visa before departing for mainland South Korea if they plan to connect through these cities.

In summary, while Jeju Island offers visa-free entry, this exemption applies solely to direct flights. Travelers connecting through mainland South Korea will require a visa, regardless of their final destination. It is crucial for international visitors to be aware of this restriction before booking their trip to Jeju Island to avoid any unnecessary delays or complications upon arrival.