Why Jeju Island Visa Rules Confuse Indian Travelers

Why Jeju Island Visa Rules Confuse Indian Travelers

Influencer Sachin Awasthi’s Detention Sparks Debate

What Indians Must Know Before Visiting South Korea

By Legal Reporter

New Delhi: February 23, 2026:

The recent detention of Indian influencer Sachin Awasthi and his wife at Jeju Island, South Korea, has highlighted the complexities of visa rules that apply differently to Jeju compared to mainland South Korea. Despite Jeju’s reputation as a visa-free destination, many travellers from India have faced confusion, detentions, and even deportations due to misinterpretation of entry requirements.

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The Case

Sachin Awasthi, a popular content creator, was detained for 38 hours along with his wife after arriving in Jeju via a connecting flight. They were denied entry and forced to book costly return tickets. Awasthi described the experience as “jail-like conditions,” with no access to phones or food during detention.

Visa experts explained that Jeju’s visa-free policy applies only under specific conditions:

• Travelers must arrive directly at Jeju via an international flight or ferry.
• Entry through Seoul or other mainland airports requires a valid South Korean visa.
• Visitors must remain in Jeju for the entire duration of their stay.

Visa Rules: Mainland vs Jeju

South Korea has two sets of rules:

This distinction often confuses travellers, especially those booking connecting flights through Seoul or other hubs.

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What Indian Travelers Should Check

To avoid legal troubles, Indian visitors must carefully follow these guidelines:

• Direct Flight Requirement: Book flights that land directly in Jeju. Transit through Seoul or Busan invalidates visa-free entry.
• Stay Restriction: Visa-free entry is valid only for Jeju. You cannot travel to mainland South Korea without a separate visa.
• Duration: Maximum stay is 30 days under the visa-free rule.
• Documentation: Carry proof of return tickets, hotel bookings, and sufficient funds. Immigration officers may ask for these.
• Awareness of Risks: Even celebrities and influencers have been detained; immigration authorities strictly enforce rules.

Why This Matters

• Tourism Impact: Jeju is a popular destination for Indian travellers, but confusion over visa rules can damage its reputation.
• Legal Clarity: The case highlights the need for better awareness campaigns by airlines and travel agencies.
• Traveler Safety: Detentions can be stressful and costly; understanding rules is essential for smooth travel.

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Reactions

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• Visa experts stressed that Indian passport holders must be extra cautious, as immigration authorities enforce rules strictly.
• Travel bloggers urged airlines to provide clearer guidance during ticket bookings.
• Civil society groups called for better coordination between Indian authorities and South Korea to prevent such incidents.

Closing Note

The detention of Sachin Awasthi has exposed the fine print of Jeju Island’s visa-free policy. For Indian travellers, the key takeaway is simple: visa-free entry applies only if you fly directly into Jeju and stay there throughout your trip. Any deviation—such as transiting through Seoul—requires a valid South Korean visa.

This case is a reminder that understanding visa rules is as important as booking tickets and hotels. Travelers must check official consulate advisories and plan carefully to avoid costly detentions and ruined vacations.

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