Viral claim that South Korea banned Israeli tourists from entering the country is misleading. 

Multiple posts on social media are claiming that South Korea had taken a drastic step by banning Israeli tourists from entering the country. This marks a significant shift in international relations. 

However, Fact Crescendo found the claim to be misleading. South Korea had not banned Israeli tourists. It had exempted Israeli citizens from the requirement to submit Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA). 

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Fact Check- 

A relevant keyword search led us to a report published on a website. According to the information, during the 10th National Tourism Strategy Meeting, the South Korean government announced that the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) exemption will be extended until the end of 2026. The exemption applies to travelers from countries and regions that were already covered under the previous waiver including Israel. 

The K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) is a mandatory online travel authorization for foreign visitors from visa-free countries traveling to South Korea for tourism, business, or short-term visits. It requires submission of personal and travel information. 

We also found information related to this on the Israel Embassy website in South Korea. In this official notice, it was clarified that Israel passport holders do not need to apply for a K-ETA if they are travelling to South Korea as tourists. The exemption is valid up to 31 December 2026. 

An official notice on the K-ETA website explains that South Korea’s Ministry of Justice has extended the temporary exemption from the K-ETA for another year up to December 2026. Travelers from the countries and regions already included in the exemption list will continue to be allowed to enter Korea without applying for a K-ETA during this period. If someone from an exempt country tries to apply, the system will show a message saying the application is not required. 

Conclusion: 

Fact Crescendo found the claim to be misleading. South Korea did not ban Israeli tourists from entering the country. It had exempted Israeli citizens from the requirement to submit Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA).