Does Traveling to South Korea Require a Visa? Detailed and Specific Answers

South Korea, the land of cherry blossoms, vibrant red leaves, and lively K-pop culture, is a dream destination for many. Do you need a visa to travel to South Korea? is the first question when planning to explore Seoul, Jeju, or Busan. With a flexible visa policy, this journey has become easier than ever. This article will clarify visa requirements, cases of visa exemption, and visa-free destinations to make your trip full of emotions.

Do you need a visa to travel to South Korea?

South Korea is one of the East Asian destinations attracting millions of tourists each year, and the question of whether you need a visa to travel to South Korea is always of interest. For Vietnamese citizens, a tourist visa (C-3) is usually a mandatory requirement for entering South Korea, except for some special cases that are visa-exempt. The C-3 visa allows a maximum stay of 30 days, suitable for short trips.

The visa application process includes a passport (valid for more than 6 months), a 3.5x4.5cm photo, a detailed itinerary, flight and hotel booking confirmations, and proof of financial means (a savings book with a minimum of 100 million VND or a 3-month salary statement).

The visa fee is about 20 USD (approximately 500,000 VND), payable at the Korean Visa Center (KVAC) in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Processing time is 8-10 working days, so prepare 1-2 months in advance to avoid rush. Carefully check your documents and schedule an appointment online through the KVAC website for a smooth process.

However, South Korea has a visa exemption policy for certain cases and destinations, helping travelers save time and costs. These cases, along with visa-free locations like Jeju and Gangwon, are highlights when planning a trip to South Korea.

>>> See more: How Much Does a Trip to South Korea Cost?: Expenses and Saving Tips

Do you need a visa to travel to South Korea?

Cases of visa exemption for South Korea

South Korea's visa exemption policy is a great advantage, especially for Vietnamese citizens who want to explore the land of kimchi without complicated procedures. Below are the cases of visa exemption, updated until May 2025, providing detailed answers to the question of whether you need a visa to travel to South Korea:

• Traveling to Jeju Island (maximum 30 days): Vietnamese citizens are exempt from a visa when entering Jeju via charter flights or transiting through a third country (such as Singapore, Thailand) due to the lack of direct flights from Vietnam. Tourists can only stay in Jeju and are not allowed to enter mainland South Korea.
• Traveling to Gangwon Province and Seoul (maximum 15 days): Visa exemption for travelers entering through Yangyang International Airport (Gangwon) on group tours of 5 or more people, organized by companies designated by South Korea. Tourists can only visit Gangwon and Seoul, currently requiring charter flights as there are no commercial flights from Vietnam.
• Transiting at Incheon, Gimpo, or Gimhae airports (under 24 hours): No visa is required if you have a round-trip ticket or continue to a third country, staying in the transit area. Suitable for short transit trips.
• APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC): ABTC holders with the KOR code are exempt from a visa, with a maximum stay of 90 days, primarily for business purposes, but also applicable for tourism.
• Official and diplomatic passports: Visa exemption for business purposes, with a maximum stay of 90 days.
• Individuals with a history of multiple entries to South Korea: Those who have traveled or worked in South Korea 4 times in the last 2 years may be exempt from a visa, but need confirmation from the Korean immigration authority.

To take advantage of the visa exemption policy, it is necessary to check specific conditions through the Korean Embassy or the KVAC website, especially for Jeju and Gangwon, to ensure a smooth trip. This policy makes South Korea an easily accessible destination, especially for those who want to experience without worrying about procedures.

>>> See more: Traveling to South Korea in the Snowy Season: The Beauty of the Land of Kimchi Covered in White

Some special cases exempt from a visa for traveling to South Korea

Revealing visa-free destinations in South Korea

The visa exemption policy opens up opportunities to explore beautiful destinations in South Korea without needing a visa, providing the perfect answer to whether you need a visa to travel to South Korea. Below are two outstanding destinations that offer a distinctly Korean experience:

Jeju Island, South Korea

Jeju, often likened to "the Hawaii of South Korea," is a visa-free paradise (maximum 30 days) with blue seas, volcanic mountains, and vibrant flower fields. Entering through Jeju International Airport, tourists can explore Hallasan Mountain (4-6 hour hike, free), Jungmun Beach with its powerful waves, and Seongeup Village with traditional stone houses (free). The April canola flower festival in Udo or cherry blossoms along Jeju Olle Road are must-see moments.

Jeju, often likened to "the Hawaii of South Korea"

Jeju's cuisine captivates with fragrant abalone porridge (30,000 KRW), grilled black pork (25,000 KRW), and sweet Hallabong oranges (5,000 KRW). Staying at budget hotels like Ocean Palace (1-1.5 million VND/night) or hostels near the beach (600,000 VND/night) is very convenient. Charter flights from Vietnam (15-20 million VND round trip) or transiting through Singapore are common options. Jeju is ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those wanting to experience South Korea without a visa.

Gangwon Province, South Korea

Gangwon, the land of mountains and white snow, is a visa-free destination (maximum 15 days) when entering through Yangyang Airport on group tours. Seoraksan Mountain is vibrant with red leaves in autumn, Odaesan National Park features lush green pine forests (free), and Alpensia Ski Resort (ticket 80,000 KRW) are highlights. Gangneung Traditional Market sells cod soup (15,000 KRW) and rice cakes (5,000 KRW), offering rich local flavors.

Gangwon, the land of majestic mountains

Staying in Gangwon includes hotels like InterContinental Alpensia (2-3 million VND/night) or budget guesthouses (800,000 VND/night). Charter flights from Vietnam (18-22 million VND round trip) are currently the only option. Gangwon is suitable for those who love skiing, hiking, and want to combine a visit to Seoul during their visa-free journey. Gangneung's streets with red lanterns during the winter festival create a warm, unforgettable atmosphere.

The question of whether you need a visa to travel to South Korea is no longer a barrier with the visa exemption policy in Jeju and Gangwon. From the emerald beaches of Jeju to the majestic snowy mountains of Gangwon, each destination is a piece of the land of kimchi. With preparation tips and detailed suggestions, your trip will become an unforgettable love song.

Visit nvktravel.com to receive an itinerary for traveling to South Korea and plan the perfect journey to South Korea!