SEOUL — In the wake of growing complaints by Thai nationals about the conduct of South Korean immigration officials, the government of South Korea announced Saturday that it would engage in consular talks with Thailand. These discussions are set to tackle grievances regarding the treatment of Thai visitors, which have gained significant attention on social media.
According to the Yonhap News Agency, the forthcoming discussions will feature the directors-general for consular affairs from each country. The ministry’s statement comes against the backdrop of a burgeoning online campaign, marked by the hashtag "ban Korea travel," which has been gaining momentum among Thai social media users.
Users on platform X have been vocal about instances where Thai nationals faced denial of entry and intense scrutiny at South Korean immigration points, raising concerns about the fairness of such practices.
In contrast, Seoul's justice ministry has underscored the importance of stringent immigration controls, acknowledging that a substantial majority of Thai visitors are in South Korea in violation of their visa terms. The ministry maintained that it is imperative for the government to implement measures that deter illegal immigration, as stated on Friday.
Moreover, it was confirmed that the issue of Thai citizens overstaying would be a central topic at the planned consular negotiations between Seoul and Bangkok.
These consular talks were agreed upon during the fourth bilateral policy consultation in Bangkok, which was co-chaired by South Korea's First Vice Foreign Minister Chang Ho-jin and Thailand's Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs Sarun Charoensuwan.