South Korea is set to temporarily lift electronic travel authorization (K-ETA) requirements for 22 visa-free locations from April 1. The places that will benefit from the exemption include Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Macau, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, UK, and US. Authorities did not specify the duration of the exemption. Passport holders from other visa-free countries not included in the list must continue to apply for K-ETA at least 72 hours prior to entry.
In terms of domestic measures, face masks are no longer mandatory at indoor and outdoor locations, as well as on public transport. However, people must continue to wear facemasks at hospitals, pharmacies, and other medical facilities that house vulnerable patients.
Regarding international travel restrictions, visa-free and visa-waiver programs have resumed, with the exception of some countries. Passport holders from eligible countries must obtain an electronic travel authorization (K-ETA) at least 72 hours before entry, and authorities encourage all incoming travelers to register their travel information on the Q-Code platform before departure for South Korea.
The advice is to follow all official instructions and abide by national health and safety measures. Travel arrangements should be reconfirmed, and travelers should consider delaying their travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19 as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays.
Resources available for travelers include the Korea Tourism Organization and the Quarantine COVID19 Defence (Q-Code) system.