The YouTube Association and the Professors' Group for Freedom and Justice (Jagyomo) hold a joint press conference on the 17th. / Photo courtesy of YouTube channel Pioneer Broadcasting.

Controversy Grows Over Visa-Free Entry for Chinese Tourists

As the government has temporarily permitted visa-free entry for Chinese group tourists from September 29 to June 30 of next year, groups concerned about public safety and national security have called for the policy to be scrapped.

On the 17th at noon, a joint press conference hosted by the YouTube Association and the Professors' Group for Freedom and Justice (Jagyomo) was held in front of the main gate of the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul. Attendees condemned the measure as a "hasty administrative decision that invites security gaps" and demanded its immediate suspension.

Kim Byung-joon, co-representative of Jagyomo (former professor at Kangnam University), Kim Sang-soon, co-representative (Chairman of the East Asia Peace Research Institute), and Lee Je-bong, co-representative (professor at Ulsan University), stated in their speeches that "the fundamental duty of a state is to protect the lives and safety of its citizens," adding that "any decision to accept security risks for the sake of economic justification can never be justified."

The attendees argued that the policy, which the government implemented to boost domestic demand and recover the tourism industry, could instead lead to an increase in illegal stayers and crimes. In a statement, Jagyomo asserted that "allowing visa-free entry for Chinese tourists contains six risk factors that threaten public safety and social order," citing the following as primary concerns: a surge in illegal immigrants, an increase in violent crimes, the spread of drug-related offenses, the influx of illegal funds, disruption of tourism order, and the deepening of cultural conflicts.

Participants also expressed concerns regarding national security. The statement noted that "this measure is tantamount to opening the gates to the Chinese Communist Party's unrestricted warfare operations," and added that "the possibility of threats against anti-China figures or patriotic individuals cannot be ruled out."

In his speech, Representative Kim Sang-soon stated, "The reason for a nation's existence should be based on three principles: public safety, protection of national interest, and enhancement of national prestige. If these principles are shaken, the people will no longer trust the state." He added, "It is difficult to view the government and the National Assembly's pursuit of policies that sacrifice public safety as responsible administration."

Participants at the press conference argued that the policy's contribution to revitalizing domestic demand is minimal compared to the potential risks. Kim Byung-joon, a former professor at Kangnam University, stated, "The consumption pattern of Chinese tourists is centered on low-cost options, so the economic ripple effect is limited, while social instability and security risks will only grow."

Professor Lee Je-bong of Ulsan University emphasized, "Tourism is not merely an economic activity; it is used as a channel for diplomacy and intelligence operations. In its relations with China, the government must prioritize long-term security risks over short-term economic effects."

The press conference concluded with a reading of the statement by Ji Dae-heung, co-chairman of the YouTube Association (CEO of Bonjour TV). Participants urged, "Visa-free entry is a measure the public cannot accept," and demanded that "the government and the National Assembly prioritize public safety and immediately withdraw the policy."

[Event Overview]

Event Name: Press Conference Denouncing Visa-Free Entry for Chinese Tourists

Date and Time: Friday, October 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM

Location: In front of the National Assembly main gate

Organizers: The YouTube Association, Professors' Group for Freedom and Justice (Jagyomo)

Statement Delivered by: Ji Dae-heung, Co-Chairman of the YouTube Association

Speakers: Kim Byung-joon (former professor at Kangnam University), Kim Sang-soon (Chairman of the East Asia Peace Research Institute), Lee Je-bong (professor at Ulsan University)

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