South Korea considers piloting visa-free policy for Chinese group tours

(ECNS) -- The South Korean government announced on Thursday it is considering a pilot visa-free policy for Chinese tour groups.

The country’s prime minister and acting leader Han Duck-soo issued a plan to boost its tourism industry, with the goal of attracting 18.5 million visitors in 2025 and revenue of 30 trillion South Korean won (about $20.47 billion).

It allows visa-free entry for Chinese tour groups of three or more people traveling by cruise ship. Additionally, it is also considering a visa-free policy extension for groups from five other countries, including Vietnam and the Philippines.

Eligible tourists will be exempted from visa fees before December next year.