South Korea Reopens Borders to Vaccinated Travelers

Despite a record number of COVID-19 infections, South Korea is moving forward with plans to welcome travelers back, eliminating quarantine requirements for vaccinated individuals.

In recent years, South Korea’s vibrant cultural scene has gained global recognition through K-Pop sensations like BTS and Blackpink, the hit TV show Squid Game, and the Oscar-winning film Parasite. However, since the pandemic’s onset, the country’s borders have largely been closed, with strict entry regulations in place. Fortunately, these rules are starting to relax.

In February, the quarantine period was shortened from 10 to seven days, and from April 1, the quarantine requirement will be removed altogether for vaccinated arrivals.

When Will South Korea Open Borders for Tourists?

Starting April 1, international tourists will be able to enter South Korea without quarantine, provided they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This update applies to visitors from many countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and others. However, travelers from Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Ukraine, and Myanmar will still be subject to a seven-day quarantine.

New Entry Rules for South Korea

Travelers planning to visit South Korea this year must have received a booster shot to avoid quarantine if more than 180 days have passed since their last primary vaccine dose. This regulation applies 180 days after the second shot or after the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Additionally, it is essential to apply for a QR code, which will be scanned upon entry. Information required includes passport number, departure country, airline details, contact number, and vaccination records.

Current Restrictions in South Korea

While South Korea was initially seen as a model for pandemic response, it is currently facing record highs in new COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and fatalities, primarily driven by the Omicron variant. Consequently, the government continues to mandate facemask usage in both indoor and outdoor public spaces as well as on public transport.

Nevertheless, other restrictions have been eased, including the elimination of proof of vaccination requirement to enter venues such as restaurants, cinemas, and theaters. Moreover, social distancing measures have been relaxed, and curfew limits are also expected to be revisited. Currently, establishments like restaurants and theaters must cease operations by 11 PM under existing guidelines.