Travel restrictions for South Koreans are being eased, despite its worst Coronavirus outbreak. Beginning April 1, fully vaccinated tourists will be able to fly into the country without quarantine.
The Ministry of the Interior and Safety announced that South Korea will recognize more vaccinations, including those administered outside of the country, which will let more people qualify for quarantine-free travel.
It is expected that the easing of restrictions will increase the number of tourists arriving. According to the Korea Tourism Organisation, last year’s arrivals were down by more than a million.
Visitors from Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Ukraine, and Myanmar are still exempt from quarantine rules, which require them to isolate for seven days after arrival regardless of vaccination status.
Here are some important things to know if you’re planning a trip to South Korea due to the easing of restrictions.
Who is eligible to travel to South Korea?
The majority of fully vaccinated tourists will be able to travel to South Korea without quarantine. Travelers must have taken a Covid-19 jab more than 14 days ago but less than 180 days ago – or a booster shot within the same timeframe – to be considered fully vaccinated. Individuals who meet this requirement can travel without quarantine to the country starting April 1. However, they must complete all their travel details on the Q-Code website before departure.
Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Ukraine, and Myanmar citizens cannot apply under this exemption category, even if they are fully vaccinated. They must also continue their isolation upon arrival. Unvaccinated travelers can still enter the country, but they must spend seven days in an isolation facility appointed by the government.
Is a PCR test required for travel to South Korea?
A PCR test must be performed within 48 hours of departure for all travellers.
The South Korean government does not require a negative test result for children under the age of five, but all travelers regardless of nationality, vaccination status, or length of stay will be tested upon arrival or within the first 24 hours of entering the country.
When tourists arrive at the airport, they will be tested and must remain at the airport until the testing results are negative.
Is quarantine required in South Korea?
You won’t need to isolate when you arrive in South Korea if you’re fully vaccinated and not coming from one of the countries that are not allowed to participate in quarantine exemptions.
Travelers are free to travel around the country once they have received a negative on-arrival test result at the airport testing facility.
What restrictions exist in South Korea?
Face masks are still compulsory in South Korea in public places and on public transportation, with fines for non-compliance.
The Covid-19 restrictions also vary by location, so you should check the websites of the various local authorities to find out more about social distancing and restrictions on group gatherings.
When is the best time to visit South Korea?
If you want to see South Korea’s blossoming cherry blossoms, spring is the ideal time to travel there. September to November is another popular time of year. During that time, tourists can see changing shades of orange and red at Songnisan, Jirisan, and Seoraksan National Parks.
Gyeonggi-do Province and Gangwon-do receive the most snowfall and are the best winter sports destinations. August is the hottest and most humid month, while winter is cold and snowy.
Where can you go and what can you do in South Korea?
There is something to interest everyone about South Korea, from fascinating history to fantastic food to a great culture and fantastic tourist attractions. Experience the culture of Korea’s Hanok villages or stroll through the palaces built by the Joseon Dynasty, such as Seoul’s Changdeokgung Palace.
Visitors to South Korea can also hit the beach at Busan, the country’s second-largest city, or climb N Seoul Tower, an iconic observation tower in Seoul. History buffs can see part of the military border between two opposing countries in no-man’s land.
