Indian Embassy in Seoul Issues Urgent Travel Advisory for Jeju Island
The Indian Embassy in Seoul has issued a critical advisory on Tuesday, urging Indian nationals to exercise heightened caution while planning trips to Jeju Island, South Korea. This warning comes in the wake of the detention of content creator Sachin Awasthi, who faced significant inconveniences during his travel.
Risks Under the Visa Waiver Scheme
In its detailed advisory, the Embassy emphasized that it frequently receives reports of Indian travelers experiencing entry denials or repatriation upon arrival in Jeju Island under the visa waiver program. To mitigate such issues, the Embassy strongly advises all Indian nationals to meticulously review and adhere to the entry requirements and precautions before embarking on their journey.
The Embassy clarified that the Jeju visa-free facility is exclusively designed for short-term tourism purposes. "Final admission into the Republic of Korea is determined solely by the immigration authorities at Jeju International Airport in accordance with Korean law. The visa waiver scheme does not guarantee entry," the advisory stated, underscoring the discretionary power of local officials.
Mandatory Documents and Financial Preparedness
Travelers are required to carry a comprehensive set of documents to ensure smooth entry. These include:
- Confirmed return air tickets
- Hotel reservations covering the entire stay
- A detailed day-wise travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the visit
- A passport valid for at least six months
- Travel insurance
- Accommodation contact details
The advisory warned that passengers who cannot clearly explain their travel plans may face the risk of entry denial. Additionally, the Embassy highlighted the importance of financial preparedness, stating that "travelers should be able to demonstrate adequate financial capacity for the duration of stay including for daily expenses, accommodation payment and transport arrangements."
Immigration Procedures and Legal Restrictions
Upon arrival, immigration officers may conduct interviews, and travelers are advised to respond truthfully and consistently while remaining calm. The Embassy also reminded Indian nationals that the Jeju visa waiver does not permit travel to mainland Korea, and attempting to leave Jeju without a visa is illegal. Overstays or unauthorized activities could result in future travel bans.
If entry is refused, the passenger will be returned on the next available flight, and temporary stay in a holding facility may be required, as experienced by some travelers.
Case of Sachin Awasthi's Detention
The advisory was prompted by the recent detention of Sachin Awasthi for 38 hours at Jeju Island. Awasthi, along with his wife, was denied entry, kept in a detention center, and forced to book an expensive return ticket. "I am not sharing this for sympathy or drama. Immigration decisions are their authority. But they did not have any right to treat us like criminals," he expressed, highlighting the harsh treatment faced.
Jeju Island is one of the three self-governing provinces of South Korea, offering a special visa-free entry program for foreigners. Indian travelers can enter without a visa only if arriving directly from a foreign country, as entry via mainland South Korea requires a visa.
This advisory serves as a crucial reminder for Indian tourists to plan meticulously and stay informed to avoid similar distressing situations while traveling to Jeju Island.
