Jeju Island Police Issue Behavior Guidelines for Tourists Amid Surge in Visitors

In response to rising complaints over tourist misbehavior, Jeju Island police have issued their first behavior guidelines for international visitors, outlining minor offenses and potential fines to foster better understanding of Korean culture and encourage respectful tourism.

In an unprecedented move, police in Jeju Island, South Korea, have introduced guidelines reminding international tourists to adhere to local customs or face penalties as the picturesque holiday destination grapples with an influx of visitors. The guidelines, which are printed in Chinese, English, and Korean, were created in response to numerous complaints from residents regarding inappropriate behavior exhibited by tourists, such as littering and allowing children to relieve themselves in public spaces.

This initiative marks the first time any South Korean locale has implemented such a guide. Jeju Island, renowned for its stunning beaches, hiking trails, and volcanic landscapes, has become a favored spot for foreign travelers, many of whom also engage in shopping and gambling during their stay. The guidelines aim to prevent cultural misunderstandings and enhance foreigners' comprehension of local laws and customs, according to Jeju Police Agency chief Kim Su-young.

To kickstart this effort, an initial batch of 8,000 copies of the guide will be produced and distributed promptly. The document highlights various "minor offenses" that carry fines, including smoking in restricted areas, littering, jaywalking, disorderly conduct, skipping out on restaurant bills, public urination or defecation, using counterfeit identification, and trespassing into vacant properties.

First-time offenders will receive warnings, while repeat violations could incur fines of up to 200,000 won (around $143 or £106), based on the details outlined in the guide published by law enforcement. The rise in tourism has been significant, with Jeju attracting over seven million visitors so far this year alone. Projections for 2024 indicate that foreign tourists will have contributed a record 9.26 trillion won to the local economy, with nearly 70% of visitors arriving from China.

The crackdown on tourist misconduct in Jeju Island reflects a wider trend in popular tourist destinations across Asia, as they seek to manage the pressures of over-tourism. For example, a town in Japan recently blocked a sought-after viewpoint of Mount Fuji to deter tourists eager to capture selfies.