South Korea grants temporary visa-free entry for Indonesian tourist groups

Groups of at least three travelers can enter without a visa for up to 15 days until the end of December 2026

South Korea has begun implementing a temporary visa-free program for Indonesian tourist groups, allowing eligible travelers to enter without a visa for up to 15 days.

According to The Korea Times, the scheme took effect on May 28, 2026 and applies to groups of at least three Indonesian travelers. The program will run until the end of December 2026.

The move came after the government decided to ease visa and entry requirements for foreign tourists during a tourism strategy meeting chaired by President Lee Jae Myung in February, as part of efforts to promote inbound tourism across the country.

The temporary visa-free program is expected to help boost the nation's tourism industry, according to the Korea Immigration Service.

Measures to prevent illegal stays

The government has also introduced measures to prevent illegal stays. Korean travel agencies are required to register a list of their tourists on a government website 24 hours before entry.

The justice ministry said it will check the lists to identify high-risk individuals, such as those subject to entry restrictions or with a history of illegal stays. Such individuals will be excluded from the visa waiver program.

Justice Minister Jung Sung-ho vowed to work closely with relevant ministries to ensure that the program helps stimulate domestic consumption while maintaining order regarding the stay of foreign tourists.