Thailand Seeks Smoother Entry to South Korea for Its Travellers

webfact · August 2

Thailand's top diplomat requested South Korea make it more convenient for Thai travellers to visit, according to the foreign ministry, amid reports of negative sentiment due to Thai citizens being denied entry.

The request came during bilateral talks between South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and his Thai counterpart, Maris Sangiampongsa, in Seoul. Stricter screening under the new Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) system introduced last year has led to increased instances of Thai travellers being refused entry to South Korea.

Maris emphasized the importance of easing entry restrictions, highlighting that active exchanges between the two nations are crucial for their friendly and cooperative relationship. “We need to make travel smoother to maintain the robust ties between our countries,” he stated.

In response, Cho detailed the South Korean government's efforts to broaden both personal and labour exchanges. He suggested that both nations collaborate to forge stronger, forward-looking relations. “We are focused on enhancing our bilateral cooperation for the future,” Cho said.

Earlier this year, Thailand’s Culture Ministry requested the Justice Ministry to include Thailand in temporary K-ETA exemptions, but the request was denied. The Justice Ministry maintains that the stricter entry rules for Thai nationals are necessary to curb illegal immigration.

Before the Covid-19 pandemic, Thailand was the top Southeast Asian source market for South Korean tourism. Now, it ranks second, trailing Vietnam. Both countries hope to see a resurgence in tourism and economic exchanges.

The ministers also agreed to establish a “two plus two” director-level consultative body aimed at contributing to regional peace, stability, and prosperity. Furthermore, they agreed to expedite ongoing negotiations for an economic partnership agreement.

Cho also welcomed Thailand’s recent role as South Korea-ASEAN coordinator starting this month. “We look forward to stronger cooperation within the ASEAN framework,” he noted.

Picture courtesy: The Soul Guide

-- 2024-08-03

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Tropicalevo · August 3

This is probably the real reason that numbers to South Korea are down.

mfd101 · August 3

Thais need to learn that, if you want smoother entries, you have to make smoother exits.

stoner · August 3

32 minutes ago, Tropicalevo said:

This is probably the real reason that numbers to South Korea are down.

or it could possibly have something to do with the approx 150k thai in SK illegally. just to hazard a guess.

3 hours ago, webfact said:

Earlier this year, Thailand’s Culture Ministry requested the Justice Ministry to include Thailand in temporary K-ETA exemptions, but the request was denied. The Justice Ministry maintains that the stricter entry rules for Thai nationals are necessary to curb illegal immigration.