South Korea's Ministry of Justice announced that, effective March 16, it expanded the list of countries whose citizens may use automated immigration gates from 18 to 42.
Under the change, citizens of 19 European Union member states — including Greece, Belgium, Sweden, Spain and Austria — as well as Canadians and nationals of four Schengen countries, including Switzerland and Norway, are now eligible to use the automated gates.
A ministry official said the decision reflected consideration of reciprocal access to automated gates between South Korea and partner countries, noting that Canada already offers Korean travelers simplified entry procedures via kiosks.
Justice Minister Jeong Seong-ho said he expects the streamlined entry process to attract more visitors to South Korea, stimulate economic activity and support livelihoods.
