South Korea Offers Visa-Free Entry to Chinese Tourists Ahead of APEC Summit
South Korea will grant visa-free entry to Chinese tourist groups from September 29, 2023, to June 2026. This initiative aims to boost tourism prior to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit. The decision follows China's earlier visa exemption for South Koreans, potentially improving bilateral relations.
In a bid to boost tourism, South Korea announced it will provide visa-free entry for tourist groups from China beginning September 29, 2023, extending through June 2026. The initiative aims to attract more visitors ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, a government spokesperson stated on Wednesday.
The move aligns with China's previous decision to offer a visa exemption to South Korean and other foreign travelers, fostering expectations of improved bilateral ties. President Lee Jae Myung's administration supports the measure, expected to aid South Korea's domestic economy and enhance foreign tourism.
Coinciding with a major Chinese holiday in early October, the visa-free initiative comes as part of efforts to revitalize tourism. The tourism ministry anticipates positive economic impacts, aligning with the upcoming APEC summit in Gyeongju. The announcement spurred a rally in South Korean retail and hospitality stocks, reflecting optimism over increased Chinese demand.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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