The Indian Embassy in Seoul has issued a detailed advisory for Indian travellers heading to Jeju Island after Indian content creator Sachin Awasthi claimed he was detained for nearly 38 hours at Jeju International Airport and ultimately denied entry into South Korea despite travelling under the island’s visa-waiver programme.

Arrival, Interrogation and Detention at Jeju Airport

According to Awasthi’s account shared on social media, he arrived in Jeju as part of a group trip expecting visa-free entry for tourism. However, immigration authorities subjected him and others in his group to prolonged questioning regarding their travel plans, accommodation details and financial capability.

He alleged that officials were unconvinced about the purpose of the visit and suspected possible intent to travel onward to mainland South Korea, which is not permitted under the Jeju visa-free scheme without a separate visa. As a result, the group was denied immediate entry and taken to a holding facility inside the airport.

38 Hours in a Holding Facility

Awasthi said he remained confined for about 38 hours in what he described as conditions similar to detention. He claimed access to food, drinking water and communication was limited, and that travellers were not allowed to freely use their phones.

He also stated that passengers were required to wait until airlines arranged return flights, which could take many hours depending on seat availability. During this period, they remained under supervision in a restricted area.

Pressure to Buy Return Tickets

One of Awasthi’s most serious allegations was that travellers were pressured to purchase expensive last-minute return tickets. He claimed that without confirmed outbound flights, passengers could not be deported immediately and therefore had to arrange travel at high cost.

Eventually, he was sent back to his previous departure point after authorities formally refused entry.

Possible Reasons for Denial of Entry

Immigration decisions are made solely by the destination country, and officials are not required to disclose detailed reasons. However, common grounds for refusal under Jeju’s visa-waiver programme include:

– Inadequate proof of accommodation or itinerary

– Insufficient financial resources

– Suspicion of intent to work illegally or enter mainland Korea

– Inconsistent answers during questioning

– Previous immigration violations or travel patterns

Awasthi’s transit route through China and travel profile reportedly drew additional scrutiny, though this has not been officially confirmed.

Embassy Response and Advisory

Following the incident, the Indian Embassy in Seoul issued a public advisory stressing that visa-free entry to Jeju is not guaranteed and that final admission rests with immigration authorities.

The embassy urged travellers to carry comprehensive documentation, including:

– Confirmed return tickets

– Hotel bookings covering the entire stay

– Detailed day-wise itinerary

– Proof of sufficient funds

– Passport valid for at least six months

Travellers were also advised to answer immigration questions clearly and consistently and to demonstrate genuine tourism intent.

Restrictions of the Jeju Visa-Free Scheme

The mission reiterated a crucial rule often misunderstood by travellers: visa-free entry to Jeju does not permit travel to mainland South Korea. Attempting to do so without a proper visa is illegal and can result in denial of entry or future travel bans.

If entry is refused, passengers are returned on the next available flight, and accommodation during the wait is typically in airport holding areas.

Broader Implications for Indian Travellers

Sachin Awasthi’s experience has drawn widespread attention online and triggered discussion about the risks of visa-waiver travel programmes. While Jeju remains open to Indian tourists without a visa, the incident underscores that immigration clearance is discretionary and contingent on satisfying all requirements.

The embassy has assured that it will assist Indian nationals facing difficulties but emphasised that preparation and awareness are the best safeguards against similar situations.

For travellers planning a trip to Jeju, the message is clear: visa-free does not mean scrutiny-free, and thorough documentation is essential to avoid unexpected denial at the border.

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