Jakarta. South Korea is preparing a broad policy push to attract 30 million international tourists, with plans to ease immigration procedures, expand visa access, and promote destinations beyond the capital region.

The initiative was announced by Culture, Sports and Tourism Minister Chae Hwi-young during the National Tourism Strategy Meeting held on Feb. 25 at Cheong Wa Dae in Jongno-gu, Seoul.

Chae said the government is introducing various measures to usher in the era of 30 million international tourists.

A key component of the strategy is visa reform. As arrivals from Indonesia continue to rise, Seoul plans to conduct a trial visa-free policy for Indonesian group tourists.

In addition, travelers from China and several Southeast Asian countries who have previously visited South Korea will be eligible for five-year multiple-entry visas, while residents in major cities across those countries may qualify for ten-year multiple-entry visas.

South Korea will also waive visa fees for group tourists from China, the Philippines, Indonesia, India, and Cambodia, with the policy set to remain in effect until December 2026.

To further streamline entry, authorities will expand the use of automated immigration gates at Incheon International Airport, aiming to shorten inspection times for foreign travelers.

Currently, only passport holders from 18 countries, including Japan, Singapore, and Australia, are eligible to use the automated system.

Beyond immigration reforms, the government plans to expand international routes at regional airports and ease immigration procedures for tourists arriving on cruise ships, part of a broader effort to disperse visitor flows beyond the Seoul metropolitan area.

Authorities will also intensify promotions for regional tourism destinations, including identifying lesser-known attractions and upgrading aging tourism facilities to make them more appealing to visitors.

To further support the initiative, the government plans to introduce discount programs for tourist attractions and culinary experiences, aiming to reduce travel costs and encourage tourists to explore more destinations across the country.