Foreign misdemeanor penalties significantly increased starting from 2021

South Korea has seen an increase in penalties imposed on foreign tourists for minor offenses, with a total of 2,697 cases and 91 million won ($65,300) in fines collected as of July 2025.

In 2024, a total of 2,109 penalties were imposed, with 79 million won collected. The number of penalties imposed on foreigners this year has surpassed that of all 2024. Interestingly, an overwhelming majority (75 percent) of the penalties in 2025 were issued for littering.

The offenses include public urination, excessive noise, drunken disturbances, fare evasion, and public exposure, among others. However, littering emerges as the most common offense, with 137 cases in Jeju alone in 2024.

Jeju Island, a popular tourist destination, logged 2,482 cases of jaywalking by foreign nationals in 2024, accounting for over 80% of all such cases in the country. Other frequent offenses include public urination, public disturbance, fare evasion, public exposure, and interference with business.

Most offenses by foreign nationals are attributed to a lack of understanding or cultural differences, according to Jeju authorities. This was evident in a viral video in April 2025, where a Chinese woman was seen smoking inside a bus on Jeju Island, sparking public anger.

In an effort to educate foreign tourists about minor offenses and related penalties, Jeju authorities distributed warnings and information guides in Korean, English, and Chinese in August 2021.

It's important to note that these penalties are not classified as criminal punishments and do not result in a criminal record. However, if a foreign national leaves the country without paying a fine imposed against them, Korean authorities can arrest them upon reentry.

As of July 2025, 20 million won in fines for 539 cases have not been paid by foreign offenders. This figure is consistent with the unpaid amount in 2024, which was also 20 million won for 457 penalties.

South Korean authorities have limited means to enforce the payment of fines for minor offenses committed by foreign nationals. Despite this, efforts are being made to educate tourists and ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for all visitors.