Surge in Chinese Cruise Ship Visits to Busan Following Visa Waiver
Cruise operations by Chinese-flagged and China-based vessels to the South Korean port of Busan are projected to see a significant increase in 2026, thanks to a temporary visa exemption for Chinese tourists implemented by the South Korean government. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries has reported that 173 cruise calls from China are scheduled for the Port of Busan this year, a dramatic rise from just eight calls recorded the previous year. This surge is expected to bring in over 800,000 passengers, marking one of the strongest cruise seasons in Busan’s history.
The increase in cruise traffic follows a policy change announced in September, which allows organized groups of three or more Chinese travelers to enter South Korea without a visa for stays up to 15 days. This initiative aims to boost tourism from China.
To prepare for the influx of visitors, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries held a coordination meeting with various agencies to discuss operational and infrastructure requirements. Key topics included streamlining immigration processes and enhancing passenger processing capacity at the port to efficiently manage the anticipated growth in arrivals.
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At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising. Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry. Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
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