In a move aimed at sustaining the recovery of inbound tourism, South Korea has decided to extend the waiver on visa processing fees for group tourists from select Asian markets by another six months. The decision reflects the government’s continued focus on reviving international travel flows and strengthening people-to-people exchanges across the region.
The extension, announced by Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol, will keep the visa fee exemption in place until the end of June next year. The policy applies specifically to C-3-2 visas, which are issued to group tourists entering the country for short-term visits.
The waiver covers travellers from six countries—China, India, Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia and Cambodia—markets that together account for a substantial share of South Korea’s pre-pandemic inbound tourist arrivals. The exemption was originally scheduled to expire this week, but authorities opted to continue the measure to preserve tourism momentum during a period of gradual recovery.
Officials indicated that the move is part of a broader strategy to stimulate demand from price-sensitive group travellers, particularly in Southeast Asia and South Asia. By removing the visa processing fee, currently set at 18,000 won (approximately US$12.5), the government aims to make travel to South Korea more accessible and competitive compared to other regional destinations.
Tourism analysts note that group travel remains a key driver for airlines, hotels and local businesses, especially outside major metropolitan areas. The extension is expected to support tour operators, retail sectors and cultural destinations that rely heavily on organised travel groups.
The policy also aligns with South Korea’s wider efforts to reposition itself as a leading Asian tourism hub, leveraging cultural attractions, medical tourism, K-content and seasonal travel experiences. With international travel demand steadily improving, authorities see targeted incentives such as visa fee waivers as an effective tool to accelerate visitor inflows without major fiscal impact.
By continuing the exemption into mid-next year, South Korea signals its intent to prioritise tourism-led economic activity while reinforcing ties with key neighbouring and partner countries.
