In a move to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic ties, South Korea and Japan will introduce exclusive immigration checkpoints for each other’s nationals starting in June, according to a report by the Japanese daily Nihon Keizai Shimbun (Nikkei) on May 15.
The initiative, set to run for 30 days as a trial, aims to streamline entry procedures and enhance bilateral tourism. In South Korea, Japanese-only immigration counters will be established at Seoul’s Gimpo International Airport and Busan’s Gimhae International Airport. In Japan, Korean-only lanes will be available at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport and Fukuoka Airport.
These exclusive checkpoints will operate separately from general foreign entry lines, allowing for expedited immigration processing for Korean and Japanese travelers. The trial will be evaluated by both governments to determine the feasibility of making the system permanent.
According to Nikkei, this marks the first time Japan has created dedicated immigration lanes for nationals of a specific country. The Japanese government reportedly views the initiative as a strategic effort to boost people-to-people exchange and deepen bilateral relations.
Related topics:
- South Korea, Japan to Launch Fast-Track Immigration Pilot in June
- How Labour Learned to Embrace Immigration Control
- RCN Warns Government Immigration Plans Could Deepen NHS Staffing Crisis
