A screenshot of a safety notice posted Friday on the WeChat account of the Chinese Embassy in South Korea

Chinese Embassy in South Korea on Friday released a security notice reminding Chinese travelers in South Korea to stay away from rallies and enhance safety precautions in light of recent developments and issues previously encountered by Chinese tourists, as many Chinese citizens are expected to visit South Korea during the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays.

South Korea will implement a visa-free entry policy for Chinese group tourists starting September 29, lasting until June 30, 2026. This is a positive response to China's earlier trial of a unilateral visa-free policy for South Korea. With the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays approaching, many Chinese citizens are expected to visit South Korea. The Chinese Embassy in South Korea extended its best wishes for a pleasant trip and safe return to all Chinese visitors, the Embassy said in a notice on its WeChat account. 
 
The Embassy reminded Chinese travelers to "stay away from rallies and enhance safety precautions." In some areas of South Korea, particularly Seoul's Myeongdong and Garibong-dong districts, protests targeting Chinese nationals occasionally occur—something both China and South Korea have openly opposed.
 
Visitors are urged to remain vigilant, strengthen their self-protection awareness, and keep their distance from political rallies. They are advised not to make public political remarks, avoid going near protest sites, and pay attention to possible traffic restrictions caused by rallies. In case of unexpected situations, they should remain calm, avoid verbal or physical conflict with demonstrators, and ensure their personal safety, said the Embassy. 

The Embassy also reminded travelers not to participate in cross-border gambling and to be cautious when using drones or cameras. "The use of drones is not recommended. If necessary, be sure to familiarize yourself with relevant South Korean laws and regulations in advance, and never use drones in no-fly zones or sensitive areas," the Embassy said.

Group travelers should select qualified and reputable travel agencies, sign proper contracts, and carefully read the terms. If the trip is disrupted due to such issues, seek assistance from the South Korean police, the Embassy reminded.

Global Times