Indian influencer’s South Korea vacation turns into a nightmare: Here’s everything you should know before your trip

Indian content creator Sachin Awasthi has shared a harrowing account of his detention at the hands of immigration authorities in South Korea. In a post on Instagram, Awasthi recounted the distressing experience, saying that he and his wife were detained for 38 hours while on their trip to Jeju Island, and later in China, without a clear explanation.

Upon arrival at Jeju Island, the couple was denied entry without an explanation and escorted to a holding area. “Hours passed without clarity. They kept us in their detention centre,” he wrote. Awasthi described the detention centre as having no sunlight, limited access to the outside world, and providing only ‘jail food’.

He claimed authorities pressured them into booking an expensive return flight to India. The ordeal continued during their transit through China, where they faced strict supervision, restricted communication, and monitored restroom use by officials wearing body cams. “Immigration decisions are their authority. But they did not have any right to treat us like CRIMINALS,” he added.
If you are also planning a trip to South Korea, here’s everything you should know.

The Jeju Island Visa Rules

Jeju Island is a special self-governing province in South Korea with its own unique entry rules. Unlike the rest of the country, it offers a specific visa-free program for travellers. You can enter Jeju Island without a visa only if you arrive via a direct international flight from outside South Korea and not through any mainland South Korea airport, as you would need a visa for South Korea.

South Korea Visa Requirements

Indian nationals must obtain a visa before travelling to the Republic of Korea. However, under some conditions, a visa on arrival is permitted for passengers passing through the Republic of Korea on their way to or from certain countries.

Valid Passport

Entry into South Korea requires a valid passport, with entry being denied for expired, forged, or altered documents.

Entry Declaration Form

Foreigners entering the Republic of Korea must be inspected by an immigration officer at the port of entry. When passing entry inspection, show your passport as well as a Republic of Korea Entry Card (Form 41-2), which outlines your purpose of travel and intended stay in Korea.

Banned & Restricted Items

Prohibited Items: Meat/dairy products, fresh fruits, soil-bearing plants, poppy seeds, and most CBD oils are forbidden.

Vaping: Liquids exceeding 1% (10mg/ml) concentration are prohibited.

Medication & Currency: ADHD meds (like Adderall) require a special, pre-approved Narcotics Import Permit. Cash exceeding $10,000 USD must be declared.

Required Documents