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      According to a circular issued by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Korea (“South Korea”) on August 27, 2025, effective August 31, 2025, South Korea will introduce dedicated immigration counters at Incheon International Airport to expedite entry for foreign business travelers.1  This initiative, led by the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, is a direct response to requests from economic organizations and business leaders to facilitate faster entry for foreign nationals visiting South Korea for business activities such as investment.

      The new immigration measure was implemented starting August 31, 2025.  A pilot program is being run from August 31 through December 2025.  If successful, the pilot project may be extended to additional airports.

      This measure is part of a broader strategy to strengthen South Korea’s global business environment and foster international investment.

      WHY THIS MATTERS

      The introduction of dedicated immigration counters at Incheon International Airport is a targeted approach to address concerns about entry delays for foreign business travelers.  The expedited immigration process is expected to reduce waiting times, thereby enhancing the efficiency of business travel to South Korea.

      The initiative may improve the experience of foreign business visitors, potentially increasing South Korea’s attractiveness as a destination for investment and international business.  In the long term, broader eligibility for automated immigration clearance may further simplify travel procedures for a wider range of foreign nationals.

      More Details 

      The program targets travelers “recommended” by six prominent economic organizations: the Federation of Korean Industries, the Federation of Middle Market Enterprises of Korea, Korea Enterprises Federation, the Korea International Trade Association, the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea, and the European Chamber of Commerce in Korea.2

      KPMG INSIGHTS

      Organizations may need to coordinate with their immigration advisers in respect of designated economic groups to help ensure their travelers qualify for the dedicated counters.

      What the Future Holds

      The pilot project will run through December 2025, after which the government will assess its effectiveness and consider expanding the system to other major airports, such as Gimpo and Gimhae.  In addition, the government intends to improve the entry process for general foreign passengers in the future by broadening access to automated immigration clearance.

       

      KPMG INSIGHTS

      Steps to Consider

      Travel and mobility teams should inform eligible employees of the new procedures and monitor updates on the pilot’s progress.

      Questions or concerns about the process and/or who qualifies for use of the dedicated immigration counters should be directed to qualified travel professionals and/or immigration advisers or a member of the immigration team with KPMG in South Korea (see the Contacts section).

      FOOTNOTES:

      1  Ministry of Justice, Korean Immigration Service, press release (in English), Korea to Reduce Immigration Wait Times for Foreign Business Travelers, published on 2025.08.27.

      2  As this has begun as a pilot program, at this time there are scant details regarding how it is being operated. It is advisable to consult with an immigration adviser.

      Contacts

      Han Moi Matt Park
      Han Moi Matt Park

      Director

      KPMG in South Korea

      so-hyeon-jung
      So-Hyeon Jung

      Partner, ATO

      KPMG in South Korea

      Henna Puumala
      Henna Puumala

      Supervisor

      KPMG in Korea

      More Information

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      Disclaimer

      * Please note the KPMG International member firm in the United States does not provide immigration or labour law services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist clients with U.S. immigration matters.

      The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in South Korea.

      GMS Flash Alert is a Global Mobility Services publication of the KPMG LLP Washington National Tax practice. The KPMG name and logo are trademarks used under license by the independent member firms of the KPMG global organization. KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee and does not provide services to clients. No member firm has any authority to obligate or bind KPMG International or any other member firm vis-à-vis third parties, nor does KPMG International have any such authority to obligate or bind any member firm. The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavor to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act on such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.

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