South Korea: Authorities slightly ease COVID-19-related travel restrictions effective Feb. 11 amid reduced international disease activity /update 100

Event

South Korean authorities have issued orders to slightly ease the country's COVID-19-related international travel restrictions effective Feb. 11 amid reduced international disease activity. Under the new directives, authorities will resume issuing short-term visas for travelers from China. However, officials will continue to require that all travelers entering from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau present proof of having received a negative result from a PCR or rapid antigen test taken within 48 or 24 hours, respectively, before departure; travelers from China will also continue to be subject to testing upon arrival.

Domestic Measures
Facemasks are no longer required in most indoor public spaces, with some exceptions (e.g., healthcare facilities and public transportation). Additional domestic curbs, such as gathering restrictions and testing mandates, are likely to vary by province. Authorities may ease or expand existing restrictions depending on levels of domestic COVID-19 activity.

International Travel Restrictions
Visa-free and visa-waiver programs have resumed, with some exceptions. Passport holders from eligible countries must obtain an electronic travel authorization (K-ETA) at least 72 hours before entry; to access the form, click here.

Authorities encourage all incoming travelers to register their travel information on the Q-Code platform before departure for South Korea. To access the platform, click here.

Arrivals may be subject to health screenings at all points of entry, and officials could conduct a PCR test for travelers displaying COVID-19 symptoms. All international travelers that test positive must quarantine for seven days. South Korean nationals and Alien Registration Card (ARC) holders can self-quarantine at home, while short-term visitors generally must quarantine at a designated quarantine facility. Officials may amend the existing measures at short notice.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Resources

Ministry of Health and Welfare COVID-19
Korea Tourism Organization
Quarantine COVID19 Defence (Q-Code) system