News & Updates – KOREA NTC TRAVEL SERVICES

Flying with Your Power Bank to Korea

Taking a flight for leisure can be both exciting and stressful, so it's essential to stay informed about the latest airline regulations, especially when it comes to carrying power banks. Recent incidents, such as the fire caused by a power bank in an overhead compartment on an Air Busan flight, have led to stricter rules. Here’s a guide to ensure a smooth journey with your power bank. The Air Busan Incident On January 28, 2025, a fire broke out on an Air Busan Airbus A321 at Gimhae International Airport. Investigations revealed that the fire was likely caused by a power...

Cherry Blossoms & Spring Flowers Season

At the break of Spring in South Korea bring lots of expectation for the blooming of the cherry blossom. Beside the cherry blossom, the first blooming to greet Spring is the Forysthia and follow by Azalea first bloom and accompanying them is the canola flowers weathering through the winter welcome spring with their bright yellow full bloom. Each year, tourists, local and foreign, came out in great number to watch the glory of spring with the bloom of the Cherry Blossom all over the country. This year is no different, everyone is eagerly tracking the flowering forecast from the Forest...

Bukchon Hanok Village Implements Nighttime Curfew to Manage Tourism

Starting March 1, 2025, Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul will enforce a nighttime curfew to manage the impact of excessive tourism and improve the quality of life for residents. This decision follows a successful four-month trial period initiated in November 2024. Key Highlights: Curfew Hours: Tourists can visit Bukchon Hanok Village's "Red Zone" only between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Fines: A fine of 100,000 won (approximately US$70) will be imposed on those who enter the area outside these hours for tourism purposes. Exemptions: Residents, their families, and non-tourism-related visitors, such as shoppers and accommodation guests, will not be fined....

Submit e-Arrival Card up to 3 days in advance

The South Korea government announced on 24 February 2025 the introduction of the e-arrival cards to ease the immigration process for travelers. Visitors can submit the declaration form up to three days before entering Korea (on the day of arrival, one day prior, or two days prior), based on Korean Standard Time. However, if they fail to enter Korea within 72 hours after the submission of their e-Arrival card, the card will no longer be valid. The form can be submitted through e-Arrival card website by entering the required information; the website supports both PC and mobile device. Visitors can download a...

Korea Electronic Travel Authorization

Nationals of countries or regions eligible for VISA exempt entry are required to hold a valid K-ETA to board the flight or ship bound for the Republic of Korea. On 1st April 2023, the Korean government announced the K-ETA exemption for 22 VISA exempt countries/regions until the 31 December 2024, in celebration of the "Visit Korea Year 2023-2024". And this was extended to 31 December 2025. The 22 countries/regions are:Singapore, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Macao, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, UK, US (including Guam) Please only submit your K-ETA...

Jeju Air Announces New Singapore – Seoul Flights Starting Late July 2025

Exciting News for Travelers! Jeju Air is set to launch new direct flights between Singapore and Seoul starting later July 2025. This new route will enhance connectivity between the two vibrant cities, offering more travel options for both leisure and business travelers. Key Highlights: Start date: late July 2025 Route: Direct flights between Singapore (SIN) and Seoul (SEL) Benefits: Improved connectivity, convenient travel options, and competitive fares Stay tuned for more updates and booking information!