(MENAFN) South Korea has announced plans to permit visa-free entry for Chinese group tourists for a nine-month period starting in late September, in a move aimed at boosting the country’s tourism sector.

According to the prime minister’s office, the policy will be in effect from September 29, 2025, through June 30, 2026. The decision was made during a government meeting led by Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, which focused on revitalizing domestic tourism.

Officials anticipate that this temporary exemption will stimulate increased travel demand from China, supporting South Korea’s recovering tourism industry and contributing to broader domestic economic activity.

On social media, Chinese Ambassador to South Korea Dai Bing welcomed the announcement, calling it positive news for Chinese nationals planning to travel to South Korea. He also noted that China has already been allowing visa-free entry for South Korean citizens since November of the previous year. Since then, data has shown a significant uptick in bilateral travel and exchanges.

"As close neighbors, frequent exchanges between the two peoples help enhance mutual understanding and deepen friendship," Dai said.

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