On August 6, South Korean Prime Minister Kim Myeon-sook announced that the government will implement a temporary visa-free entry policy for Chinese group tourists from September 29, 2025 to June 30, 2026.
According to a statement from the South Korean government, Kim chaired a policy meeting on tourism revitalization and announced the decision. The government expects the visa-free policy to further boost travel demand from China, thereby revitalize the local economy, and stimulate domestic consumption.
Chinese Ambassador to South Korea Dai Bing wrote on social media that South Korea’s decision to waive visas for Chinese tour groups is welcome news for Chinese travelers planning to visit the country.
Since China began trialing its unilateral visa-free policy for South Korean citizens in November, bilateral travel has grown rapidly. As close neighbors, frequent exchanges between Chinese and South Korean people are expected to foster mutual understanding and deepen bilateral ties.
