In response to increasing complaints about tourist misbehavior, Jeju police have issued guidelines for foreign visitors, detailing acceptable conduct and potential fines for offenses. With seven million tourists visiting this year, authorities aim to foster better cultural understanding and ensure a respectful interaction with the local community.
Jeju Island Introduces Guidelines for Tourists Amid Rising Complaints
Jeju Island Introduces Guidelines for Tourists Amid Rising Complaints
The South Korean island of Jeju has implemented tourist behavior guidelines amid growing concerns about foreign visitors' conduct, focusing on maintaining local standards and environmental respect.
Authorities on Jeju Island, South Korea's popular tourist destination, have taken a significant step by releasing visitor conduct guidelines for the first time. As a result of rising complaints from local residents about foreign tourists engaging in negative behavior, including littering and public defecation, the local police have published a multilingual guide. It aims to educate visitors—primarily in Chinese, English, and Korean—about appropriate behavior while exploring the island.
The guide is particularly relevant during the peak summer months when Jeju sees an influx of visitors. The island, known for its stunning volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant shopping scenes, has welcomed around seven million tourists already this year, marking a robust recovery from post-pandemic tourism declines.
Jeju Police Agency's Chief, Kim Su-young, noted that the guide seeks to bridge cultural and linguistic gaps, fostering a clearer understanding of Korean cultural norms and legal expectations. The initial print run of 8,000 copies will be distributed across the island targeting key tourist areas.
Included in the guide are listed "minor offences" that could incur fines, such as smoking in prohibited areas, public littering, drinking excessively in public spaces, and evading restaurant bills. First-time offenders will receive a warning, while more serious or repeat violations could lead to fines up to 200,000 won (approximately $143 or £106).
The spike in tourism spending has contributed significantly to Jeju's economy, with more than 9.26 trillion won injected into it in 2024, primarily from visitors, many of whom hail from China. This initiative not only highlights the need for responsible tourism practices but also aligns Jeju with a broader trend seen across Asia, where various tourism sites are implementing measures to manage visitor numbers and behavior better.
