South Korea’s Jeju Island is a huge draw for tourists. The scenic spot has already welcomed over seven million visitors this year, signaling a strong return for the travel industry. Last year, foreign tourism poured 9.26 trillion won into the economy. This success, however, has brought some unwelcome problems.
Local residents have grown tired of certain tourist behaviors. They have filed complaints about people leaving trash everywhere. Some have even reported seeing visitors let their children defecate on public streets. The friction between the booming industry and daily life has pushed officials to take action.
Setting New Ground Rules
According to a report from the Yonhap News Agency, the Jeju tourist police have published their first-ever etiquette guide for foreign visitors. The handbook is a direct response to the complaints. Its main purpose is to clearly outline what is and is not acceptable behavior on the island.
Kim Soo-young, the commissioner of the Jeju Provincial Police Agency, said the guide is meant to prevent cultural and language misunderstandings. It is also designed to help tourists better understand Korean law. The first 8,000 copies have been printed in Chinese, English, and Korean. They will be handed out at popular tourist locations. Nearly 70% of the island’s international visitors this year have come from China.
What Not to Do
The guide lists several minor offenses that can now result in fines. The list of prohibited actions includes:
- Smoking in non-smoking areas
- Littering
- Drunk and disorderly conduct
- Jaywalking
- Leaving a restaurant without paying the bill
- Urinating or defecating in public
- Using a fake ID
- Trespassing in abandoned houses
Anyone caught breaking these rules will first receive a warning. But if they are caught again, they could face a fine of up to 200,000 won. The new measures aim to find a better balance, ensuring the island remains a welcoming place for visitors and a pleasant home for its residents.