Indian Influencer Detained for 38 Hours in South Korea, Forced to Return: Embassy Issues Travel Advisory

Seoul, South Korea: Indian content creator Sachin Awasthi recently shared a harrowing account of his trip to South Korea, revealing that he and his wife were treated like criminals during their visit. The couple was detained for 38 hours on Jeju Island and eventually deported back to India. Following this incident, the Indian Embassy in Seoul has issued a travel advisory for citizens planning to visit the island.

A Harrowing Experience on Jeju Island

In a social media post, Awasthi detailed the ordeal he faced at the hands of South Korean immigration authorities. Upon arrival at Jeju International Airport, the couple was denied entry without a clear explanation and taken to a detention center that he described as “jail-like.” He highlighted the lack of sunlight, freedom of movement, and the poor quality of meals. Moreover, the authorities reportedly pressured him into booking an expensive return ticket.

The troubles continued while transiting through China, where communication restrictions, limited food and water, and strict monitoring of basic facilities added to their stress. Awasthi emphasized that the story is not meant to seek sympathy but to highlight the emotional challenges travelers can face, even on seemingly attractive international trips.

Questions Raised Over Treatment

Awasthi stated that while immigration authorities have the right to make entry decisions, the treatment they received was unnecessarily harsh. Social media users expressed shock and concern, questioning the manner in which travelers are sometimes treated by immigration officials in Jeju and China.

Indian Embassy Issues Advisory

In response, the Indian Embassy in Seoul has issued an advisory for travelers visiting Jeju Island:

• The visa-free scheme for Jeju is limited to short-term tourism on the island only.
• Entry to mainland South Korea is not guaranteed under this scheme.
• Immigration officers at Jeju International Airport have the authority to allow or deny entry after interviewing travelers.
• Travelers must answer all questions truthfully; failure to satisfy immigration officials can result in denial of entry.
• Those denied entry may be sent back on the next available flight of the same airline.
• The Embassy cannot influence the decisions of South Korean immigration authorities.
• Travelers are advised to carry confirmed return tickets, hotel bookings, proof of sufficient funds, a passport valid for at least six months, and travel insurance.

This advisory aims to help Indian travelers avoid similar situations and be fully prepared before visiting Jeju Island.