Taipei: Taiwan announced Wednesday that it has altered the designation of South Korea in its immigration systems, changing it from "Korea" to "South Korea." This move is in response to Seoul's continued listing of Taiwan as "China (Taiwan)" on its e-arrivals platform, despite Taiwan's repeated requests for a "correction."
According to Yonhap News Agency, Taiwan's foreign ministry has issued a warning that further actions may be taken if no positive response is received from Seoul by the end of the month. The ministry confirmed that the change was implemented on March 1, adjusting the nationality of South Koreans on foreign resident certificates to read "South Korea" instead of simply "Korea."
The change by Taiwan is described as a reciprocal measure, highlighting Seoul's lack of action to "correct the inappropriate labeling" of Taiwan in its e-arrival card system. The ministry emphasized that Taiwan is committed to safeguarding its national dignity and upholding the principle of reciprocity.
In December, Taiwan previously lodged a complaint with South Korea, urging modifications to the label used for Taiwan. South Korea, however, has maintained its current labeling system since 2004, asserting that Taiwan is aware of this longstanding practice. A Seoul official remarked that the matter is under review, noting that it is not a new issue and will be addressed based on South Korea's fundamental position.
Diplomatic ties between South Korea and Taiwan were severed in 1992 when Seoul established official relations with mainland China. Nonetheless, the two regions have maintained practical relations in various sectors, including economics, and continue to operate representative offices in each other's capitals.
China views Taiwan, which has been self-governed since 1949, as a part of its territory, insisting on reunification by force if necessary. Beijing has consistently opposed any actions by other countries that challenge its stance on Taiwan.
Source: Yonhap News Agency