Automated immigration checks at Incheon Int'l Airport expanded to 18 countries

A traveler uses an automated passport control kiosk at Incheon International Airport. Courtesy of Justice Ministry

The justice ministry announced Monday that it has expanded the number of countries whose nationals can use automated immigration checks when entering Incheon International Airport, increasing the list from four to 18.

The latest measure allows travelers from 14 additional countries, comprising the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Finland, Portugal, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Hungary, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Japan, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates, to enjoy easy access to the automated passport control kiosks.

Previously, only travelers from Germany, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao were eligible for the service.

The ministry said the list was based on factors such as whether South Korean nationals are granted similar access in the respective country, the level of people-to-people exchanges and diplomatic relations.

Around 40 percent of all foreign arrivals are expected to use the automated checks, according to the ministry.