Sachin Awasthi, an Indian social media influencer, has stated that he and his wife were detained by immigration officials in both South Korea and China while traveling. The influencer shared his experience in a video posted on Instagram, where he recounted the 38-hour ordeal on Jeju Island, South Korea. Awasthi mentioned that the couple was denied entry into the country and subsequently taken to a holding area without any clear reasons provided.

Conditions During Detention Described as Harsh

Awasthi depicted the detention facility as prison-like, lacking sunlight and access to the outside world. He expressed his disappointment regarding the quality of food served, which he described as reminiscent of jail rations. In his account, he mentioned that the immigration authorities pressured them into purchasing an exorbitantly priced return ticket. He stated that the return journey continued to be stressful as it included restrictions on communication, limited food and water access, and closely monitored restroom usage.

Travel Experience Impact on Mental Well-being

According to Awasthi, by the time they were finally informed about their mandatory return, they were emotionally exhausted. He highlighted how the cost of their return ticket was nearly ten times the normal fare. Despite the distressing experience, Awasthi clarified that his intention in sharing the story was not to seek sympathy or create drama. He acknowledged the immigration authorities’ jurisdiction but criticized the way they were treated, asserting that they did not deserve to be treated as criminals.

Broader Reflections on Travel Challenges

The influencer also reflected on how travel, often portrayed as glamorous on social media, can present unforeseen emotional challenges for individuals. He mentioned that he has created a comprehensive video on his YouTube channel, where he details the incident, explores the reasons behind it, and offers advice for fellow travelers looking to navigate similar situations in the future.

Public Reaction and Awareness

Social media reactions to Awasthi’s account have ranged from sympathy to frustration. Many have pointed out that the treatment he and his wife received reflects a broader issue of how travelers are sometimes treated during immigration checks, particularly in specific regions. Some users noted that the weakness of a passport does not justify the poor treatment by immigration authorities. Others have encouraged people to watch the video for a more profound understanding of the situation, emphasizing that such experiences are increasingly common among travelers today.

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