S. Korea to require negative COVID-19 test for Chinese travelers

South Korea will require travelers from China to show either a negative PCR or antigen test for the coronavirus before boarding flights to the country by March, according to Prime Minister Han Duck-soo.

All travelers from China should receive a PCR test within 48 hours or an antigen test within 24 hours before their arrival.

They will also be required to receive a PCR test on the first day of their arrival.

South Korea will also restrict issuing short-term visas for Chinese nationals, excluding diplomats, public officials, and essential business and humanitarian purposes, The visa restriction will be applied by February.

In addition, South Korea will temporarily stop expanding flights to China, and all flights from China will be required to arrive at Incheon International Airport for proper containment management.

South Korea is facing a “twindemic” of the flu and the coronavirus.