The Korean government downgraded COVID-19 from the 1st degree endemic to the 2nd degree at the date of April 18, 2022 (effective from April 25). Therefore, most regulations against the pandemic which have been effective for the last 25 months are released. However, there remain some restrictions.
Quarantine
Since June 8, 2022, the quarantine is no longer required for any international travelers regardless of the vaccination history. However, the requirement of the negative PCR test result is still in effect.
PCR tests
1. Before departure:
The Korean government requires each international visitor to have the negative result of a PCR test performed within 48 hours before boarding to Korea. (This means that if your flight is at 7 PM, July 5, the test should be done any time of July 3 or July 4.) The Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) performed by a medical expert within 24 hours before departure is also acceptable. But the certificate issued by a specialty is required. In the US, please contact nearby drug stores. For example, Walgreens Rapid NAAT test is acceptable in Korea and you get the results within 2 hours. Please upload this pre-flight PCR test result to the Q-code (https://cov19ent.kdca.go.kr/cpassportal/).
2. After arrival:
There will be a PCR test within 3 days after the entry (at your own cost: 60-70 USD). You can have the test on your arrival at the ICN airport by reservation or walk-in (fee: KRW 80,000, see https://www.airport.kr/ap_cnt/en/svc/covid19/medical/medical.do) or after you arrive at Pohang. The LOC will help you to find the clinic.
3. At the 6th or 7th day after entry, all visitors are encouraged, but not required, to have a self RAT.
Face mask
Effective from May 2, 2022, wearing a face mask outdoors is not required but is highly recommended. But it is required to wear a mask indoors, in public transportations, or in a crowded area.
When you return to your home country
1. The US government does NOT require the negative result of a PCR or antigen test before boarding to the US. This is in effect on 12th of June, 2022. (https://www.cdc.gov/quarantine/fr-proof-negative-test.html)
2. Most EU countries do not require PCR test results for fully vaccinated passengers who are boarding to EU.
Please check with https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions for more information.
Visa (Important)
Visa-waived visitors should apply for K-ETA through internet. Please visit the webpage of K-ETA. The cost is KRW 10,000 (about USD 8). Please beware of the private websites imitating official K-ETA website. You should visit https://www.k-eta.go.kr/portal/apply/index.do?locale=EN.
If your country is not listed as a K-ETA eligible country, you need a visa. In this case, please contact the LOC.
US CDC Covid-19 Travel to Korea Information: Level-3
US Department of State's Korea Travel Advisory: Level-1
updated: June 12, 2022
