Korean-Americans with U.S. citizenship can now confirm if their entry to the motherland will be permitted before they leave the country.
The South Korean consulate office announced Tuesday that it has begun a service that alerts if U.S. citizen Korean-Americans can freely enter South Korea.
The South Korean government has recently clamped down on admitting naturalized U.S. citizens into its country. Those subject to the regulation are likely to have criminal records in South Korea or immigration offenders.
Laws in South Korea stipulate that anyone who poses threat to public safety could be banned from entering the country.
“Anyone who has been fined 5 million won or more in Korea in the past should confirm if their entry will be permitted,” said the consulate office in L.A.
In addition, U.S. citizens who have been put on probation in South Korea could also be barred from entering the country.
To confirm the validity of their entry, U.S. citizens can visit the consulate office in L.A. with a valid photo I.D.
▶ Inquiries: 213-385-9300
By Hyoung Jae Kim
