This guide has been replaced by a fuller, current version. Everything here is covered there in more detail, along with the age-based exemption, the full list of permanent exemptions, and the fee, timing and validity rules straight from the Ministry of Justice.
The short version, as of early October 2026: the temporary waiver for the 22 listed countries and regions runs to 31 December 2026, and whether it is extended for 2027 had not been announced. Travellers aged 17 and under or 65 and over are exempt regardless of nationality. Applications are accepted only at www.k-eta.go.kr or the official app, the fee is about eight dollars, and no express service exists.
Read the current guide here: K-ETA 2026: Who's Exempt, Who Still Needs One, and What Changes December 31
