South Korea Travel Status

WATCH

Travel to South Korea is operating normally, with international flights and major airports functioning as usual. However, travellers should be aware of current entry changes involving South Korea’s e-Arrival Card and the temporary K-ETA exemption for eligible nationalities through 31 December 2026.

Electronic arrival card

South Korea uses an e-Arrival Card system for foreign visitors. Travellers who are required to submit an arrival declaration should complete the electronic form through the official system before entering the country.

K-ETA exemption continues through 2026

Travellers from countries and regions covered by South Korea’s temporary K-ETA exemption can continue travelling without obtaining a K-ETA through 31 December 2026, provided they otherwise meet the requirements for visa-free entry.

Visa requirements still depend on nationality

The K-ETA exemption does not make every traveller visa-free. Visitors should check whether their nationality qualifies for visa-free entry or whether a South Korean visa is required.

Major airports are operating normally

Incheon International Airport remains South Korea’s principal international gateway, while other airports including Gimpo, Busan and Jeju continue to handle scheduled passenger services.

North Korea border

The heavily controlled border between South and North Korea is not an ordinary international tourist crossing. Visitors travelling to areas near the Demilitarized Zone should follow local restrictions and tour requirements.

K-ETA exemption extended through 2026

South Korea’s temporary exemption from K-ETA requirements for eligible nationalities remains in place through 31 December 2026. Travellers covered by the exemption do not need to obtain a K-ETA during this period.

Electronic arrival procedures

South Korea’s e-Arrival Card has replaced the traditional paper arrival declaration for travellers required to submit an arrival card, making arrival information available through an online system.

No major transport disruption identified

International flights and South Korea’s major airports continue to operate normally. The WATCH classification is therefore based on current entry-procedure changes rather than an aviation or security disruption.

Check whether your nationality qualifies for visa-free entry to South Korea and whether you are covered by the temporary K-ETA exemption.

If required, complete South Korea’s e-Arrival Card through the official system before arrival.

Remember that the temporary K-ETA exemption is currently scheduled to end on 31 December 2026, so travellers visiting after that date should check for updated requirements.

Check your airline and individual flight status before travelling to the airport.

Travel Status is designed to highlight significant changes that could affect a trip. It is not a replacement for official immigration, airline or government advice.