Jeju Island Implements New Guidelines for Tourist Conduct

In response to increasing complaints from locals, Jeju Island's police have released a guide reminding tourists to follow local laws and customs or face fines. The initiative aims to enhance understanding between visitors and the local community, particularly during the busy holiday season.

Police in Jeju Island, South Korea, have implemented new guidelines aimed at reminding foreign tourists to respect local customs and laws, or risk facing fines. This initiative comes amidst mounting complaints from residents about tourist misconduct, such as littering and public defecation.

The guide, printed in Chinese, English, and Korean, is the first of its type in South Korea and emerges during the island's peak tourist season. "Our goal is to prevent misunderstandings and enhance foreigners' comprehension of our culture and laws," said Kim Su-young, the chief of the Jeju Police Agency.

An initial run of 8,000 copies of the guideline will be distributed to educate visitors on acceptable behavior. Listed infractions include smoking in prohibited areas, littering, jaywalking, and behaving disorderly when intoxicated. Tourists who break these rules could face fines reaching 200,000 won (approximately $143).

In an encouraging sign for the local economy, Jeju has seen a tourism upsurge following pandemic restrictions, welcoming over seven million visitors this year alone. This growth trend reflects a broader recovery in South Korea's tourism sector, with 2024 predicted to break records in foreign tourist spending, a significant portion of which comes from Chinese visitors.

Jeju's initiative mirrors efforts across Asia, where popular destinations are addressing challenges posed by overwhelming tourist numbers. For instance, a Japanese town recently took steps to limit tourist access to a famous view of Mount Fuji to alleviate the pressure of over-tourism.