The Ministry of Justice plans to introduce an electronic travel authorization system for visa-free overseas visitors who hope to visit Korea.
The ministry and the national assembly will make an exception to the new system for the island.

Todd Thacker reports.

The Legislation and Judiciary Committee of the National Assembly has approved a revision bill regarding the introduction of an electronic travel authorization system, or ETA.

[slug] Legislation committee passes ETA introduction bill

When the new ETA system is in place, travelers to Korea will have to submit an application at least three days in advance. Their eligibility will then be determined prior to departure.

[slug] New system requires applications made at least 3 days prior to departure

Criminal activity by visitors to Jeju, such as overstaying tourist visas, unlawful employment and even felony offences, has been on the increase. The new system is designed to help prevent problems like illegal immigration.

[slug] Exception to ETA made for Jeju


However, the committee has decided to make an exception for Jeju Island regarding the revision bill.
This means Jeju will be able to continue its longstanding visa waiver program even after the ETA is in place nationwide.

[slug] Exemption clause to be included in Enforcement Decree

The committee agreed to include the exemption clause in the law's Enforcement Decree when it comes before a general meeting of the National Assembly.


Seoul had planned to introduce the new system here on a trial basis in late 2020. But it has since exempted the island.
Seoul and the National Assembly took into account input submitted by the province and the local tourism industry.


[Reporter]Todd Thacker
[Camera] Ko Moon-su

With Jeju Island now exempt from the upcoming ETA, many in the tourism sector are breathing a sigh of relief after months of uncertainty.

Todd Thacker, KCTV