Travel advisory for Jeju Island: Indian embassy urges visitors to carry documents following Sachin Awasthi's detention
Times of India
by TOI NEWS DESKFebruary 24, 2026
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The Indian Embassy in Seoul has issued a travel advisory urging Indian nationals to exercise caution while visiting Jeju Island, South Korea, following the detention of content creator Sachin Awasthi. The advisory highlights the risks of entry denial or repatriation under the Jeju visa-free scheme, which is designed for short-term tourism only. Travelers are advised to carry essential documents such as confirmed return tickets, hotel reservations, detailed travel itineraries, proof of sufficient funds, a valid passport, and travel insurance. The Embassy also emphasized that travelers must be prepared to explain their plans clearly upon arrival, as immigration officers may conduct interviews.
The advisory comes after Sachin Awasthi and his wife were detained for 38 hours at Jeju Island’s airport and forced to purchase an expensive return ticket. Awasthi shared his experience, stating that the treatment felt criminalizing, despite the lack of legal authority to do so. The incident underscores the importance of adhering to visa-free entry requirements, as deviations can lead to severe consequences.
Jeju Island offers a unique visa-free program for foreign nationals arriving directly from abroad, but it strictly prohibits travel to mainland South Korea without a visa. Overstays or unauthorized activities can result in future travel bans. The Embassy warned that attempting to leave Jeju without proper authorization is illegal and could lead to detention or deportation.
For Indian travelers planning to visit Jeju Island, the advisory serves as a reminder of the legal framework surrounding the visa-free program. It highlights the need for thorough preparation, including demonstrating financial stability and having clear travel plans. This advisory not only protects individuals but also emphasizes the importance of understanding immigration laws when
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/24/2026