South Korea has temporarily reopened K-ETA applications for nationals of 3 suspended countries during August 2022. The South Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) allows eligible travelers to visit the country without a visa.

• Citizens of Japan, Macau, and Taiwan may apply online for a South Korean ETA until the end of the month.
• This decision has been taken to allow visitors from these countries to travel to South Korea for the Seoul Festa 2022.
• It is hoped that allowing visa-free travel with the K-ETA will attract more tourists to the event from abroad.

Eligibility for the K-ETA for South Korea in August 2022

A total of 107 different nationalities can get a South Korean K-ETA to visit the country visa-free during August 2022. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the K-ETA was planned to be available to nationals of the 112 countries and territories that qualified for visa exemption for South Korea. However, the pandemic has meant that South Korea introduced a number of COVID-19 travel restrictions, including suspension of visa waivers.

Temporary Additions to K-ETA Eligibility:

• Japan
• Macau
• Taiwan

As the situation has improved and restrictions have eased, the K-ETA was gradually made available to citizens of 104 countries by the end of July 2022. The latest announcement for the Seoul Festa means that from August 4 to August 31, 2022, 107 nationalities will be allowed to obtain a K-ETA to visit South Korea. These temporary additions include Japan, Macau, and Taiwan.

Temporary K-ETA Procedure Explained

The South Korean government has introduced a temporary visa waiver program called K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) for travelers holding passports issued by Japan, Macau, and Taiwan. This initiative aims to facilitate travel specifically for the Seoul Festa event in August 2022.

Limited Period

Please note that the South Korean visa waiver under the K-ETA program is only available for a limited period. Travelers from Japan, Macau, and Taiwan will be eligible to benefit from this waiver during the designated timeframe. Outside of this period, the regular visa requirements will apply.

Application Process

• To obtain the K-ETA for visa-free travel, follow a simple online application process.
• Access the designated website and complete a concise application form.
• Submit the form electronically.
• The visa waiver will be issued electronically.
• The K-ETA will be sent to applicants via email.

Time Constraint

It is important for visitors from Japan, Macau, and Taiwan to obtain their K-ETA at least 72 hours before their scheduled departure to South Korea. This time frame ensures that the necessary documentation is in order before their flight.

Please keep in mind that the K-ETA program is exclusive to travelers from Japan, Macau, and Taiwan for a limited duration related to the Seoul Festa event. Other nationalities must adhere to the regular visa requirements to enter South Korea.

Duration of Eligibility for Three Nationalities to Apply for the K-ETA

As of August 4, 2022, Japanese, Macau, and Taiwanese passport holders are able to apply online for the Korean visa waiver. This allows them to stay in Korea for up to 90 days without a visa. However, it is important to note that this policy is only temporary and will end on September 1, 2022.

Despite the temporary nature of the visa waiver, it is expected that the K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) system will be opened to these nationalities and more on a permanent basis in the near future. The K-ETA system will make it easier for travelers to enter Korea by streamlining the visa application process. Keep an eye out for updates on the K-ETA system for more information.

Validity Period for Temporary K-ETA for Entry to South Korea

All K-ETAs obtained by travelers of these nationalities in August 2022 can be used to enter South Korea multiple times during the month of August. However, it is important to note that the visa waivers obtained through K-ETA will become invalid for entry from September 1.

• Japanese citizens, Macau citizens, and Taiwanese citizens can use their K-ETA to enter South Korea in August.
• Travelers from these nationalities are permitted to stay in the country for up to 90 days when using the K-ETA.
• If a Japanese, Macau, or Taiwanese citizen leaves South Korea after August, they will not be able to return using the K-ETA.

K-ETA Requirements for Seoul Festa 2022

The Seoul Festa 2022 is an upcoming event that will captivate the South Korean capital. From August 10 to 14, the city will come alive with an array of exciting events and activities that showcase the vibrant spirit of Seoul.

Diverse Events in Various Locations

Events during the Seoul Festa 2022 will be held in different locations throughout the city, ensuring that there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a fan of K-Pop, an EDM enthusiast, a sports lover, or someone who appreciates cultural experiences, this festival has it all.

A Multifaceted Experience

The festival promises a delightful blend of entertainment, cultural immersion, and shopping adventures. Attendees can look forward to thrilling K-Pop concerts, an electrifying EDM festival, the exhilarating electric car grand prix, and engaging sports activities. Furthermore, culture-hopping opportunities will allow visitors to explore the rich heritage and traditions of Seoul. And for those seeking a retail therapy session, the festival will offer a memorable shopping experience.

Boosting Tourism in August

Seoul Festa 2022 not only aims to provide an unforgettable experience for visitors but also seeks to boost tourism during the month of August. Recognizing the significance of international tourists, the South Korean government has taken a welcoming step. Japanese, Macau, and Taiwanese tourists will be able to obtain a K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) online, granting them visa-free travel throughout August 2022. This initiative aims to encourage more tourists from these regions to explore the wonders of Seoul.

Join us at Seoul Festa 2022 and immerse yourself in the dynamic atmosphere of Seoul while creating lasting memories in this magnificent city.