Boost in Chinese Cruise Ship Arrivals to Busan After Visa Waiver Implementation
Cruise operations from Chinese-flagged and China-based vessels to the South Korean port of Busan are expected to significantly increase in 2026, following the announcement of a temporary visa exemption for Chinese tourists. According to the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, the port is set to receive 173 cruise calls from China, a stark increase from the eight calls recorded the previous year. This spike is anticipated to bring over 800,000 passengers to Busan, marking one of its busiest cruise seasons to date.
The South Korean government initiated this change in September, lifting visa requirements for organized groups of Chinese nationals for a duration of nine months. Under this scheme, groups of three or more can enter Korea without a visa for stays of up to 15 days, aiming to boost tourism.
To manage the anticipated influx of visitors, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries has organized meetings with relevant agencies to address operational and infrastructure needs. Efforts are underway to streamline immigration procedures and enhance passenger processing capabilities to effectively handle the increased volume of arrivals at the port.
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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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