Indian influencer claims he and his wife were detained by immigration in South Korea and China in viral video
Times of India
by TOI TRENDING DESKFebruary 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Indian content creator Sachin Awasthi has shared his harrowing experience of being detained by immigration authorities in South Korea and China during a trip with his wife. In a viral Instagram post and YouTube video, he described spending 38 hours in a South Korean detention center on Jeju Island, where he and his wife were denied entry without explanation and held in cramped, jail-like conditions. The couple was pressured into purchasing an expensive return ticket, leaving them financially strained and emotionally drained.
The ordeal continued during transit through China, where communication was restricted, food and water were limited, and restroom use was monitored. Awasthi emphasized that the treatment they received was not due to a weak passport but rather the harsh policies of immigration authorities in both countries. He clarified that he shared his story not for sympathy but to highlight the lack of transparency and fairness in such situations.
The video has sparked widespread concern among travelers, with many expressing shock at the mistreatment described by Awasthi. Social media users have criticized the actions of South Korean and Chinese immigration officials, calling for accountability. The case raises important questions about the treatment of travelers at borders and the need for better protection of individual rights during such processes.
This story matters because it sheds light on a broader issue faced by many international travelers: the arbitrary nature of immigration decisions and the potential for abusive practices. Awasthi’s account serves as a cautionary tale, urging others to be aware of the emotional and financial challenges that can arise when navigating strict border policies. His experience also underscores the importance of advocating for fair treatment and due process during travel.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/21/2026