Jeju's police have launched a multilingual guide aimed at educating tourists on appropriate behavior, following complaints of misconduct including littering and public defecation. This initiative, which coincides with a surge in tourist activity, is part of a broader response to the challenges of over-tourism in popular destinations across Asia.
Jeju Island Introduces Behavioral Guidelines for Tourists Amid Rising Visitor Numbers
Jeju Island Introduces Behavioral Guidelines for Tourists Amid Rising Visitor Numbers
In a bid to curb misbehavior from foreign visitors, Jeju Island authorities unveil their first behavioral guide for tourists, emphasizing the need for cultural respect and legal awareness.
In a proactive move to enhance visitor experience and ensure the preservation of local culture, the police in Jeju Island, South Korea, have released a thorough guide for foreign tourists regarding acceptable behavior. This action arises from increased complaints by residents concerning tourists' misconduct, including littering, letting children defecate publicly, and other disruptive behaviors.
The newly introduced guide, which is available in Chinese, English, and Korean, marks the first issuance of its kind in South Korea, a response to the island's growing reputation as a sought-after holiday destination during the peak summer tourist season. Jeju, known for its stunning volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and diverse outdoor activities, has welcomed a staggering seven million tourists this year alone, with a notable 70% of these visitors hailing from China.
According to Kim Su-young, chief of the Jeju Police Agency, the primary objective of this guide is to mitigate misunderstandings that may arise from cultural differences and language barriers, ultimately fostering better comprehension of Korean customs and regulations among tourists. Initially, 8,000 copies will be printed and distributed to ensure maximum outreach.
The guide outlines several "minor offenses" that, if violated, can incur financial penalties. These infractions include smoking in restricted areas, jaywalking, public intoxication, dining and dashing, public defecation, using counterfeit identification, and unlawfully entering vacant properties. While first-time offenders will receive warnings, those who repeatedly breach these regulations may face fines of up to 200,000 won (approximately $143 or £106).
This crackdown on tourist misbehavior underscores a broader trend in many Asian tourist hotspots, where local governments are increasingly addressing the challenges brought about by over-tourism. Similar measures have been observed elsewhere, such as the actions taken by a town in Japan, which blocked access to popular scenic views to manage the influx of visitors seeking the perfect selfie. As Jeju Island continues to grow in popularity, local authorities remain vigilant in promoting responsible tourism while safeguarding the island’s unique attractions.
