Overview

• President Lee Jae Myung labeled the demonstrations “self-destructive” and said racially discriminatory acts that damage the national interest must be eradicated.
• He instructed ministries and police to tighten enforcement, protect foreign travelers, and apply stern measures against hate speech.
• Police have restricted anti-China protests near Seoul’s Myeongdong shopping district and issued warnings on hate speech, as a protest organizer challenges the limits in court.
• A pilot visa-free entry program for Chinese group tourists has begun and runs through June 2026, with about 1,700 arrivals on the first day and a government projection of roughly 1 million visitors by June next year.
• Retailers and tour operators are rolling out China-focused services and accepting Chinese payment apps, while officials tie the tougher response to preparations for the late-October APEC meetings and an anticipated visit by Xi Jinping.