Cross border tourism between China and South Korea welcomes a 'good start'

Recently, at the Weihai Port International Passenger Transport Center terminal, accompanied by the sound of a long whistle, the "Xinjinqiao 7" Sino Korean passenger and freight liner slowly docked. Under the supervision and protection of Weihai Customs under Qingdao Customs, 386 passengers entered the country smoothly, including 291 Korean group passengers who will embark on a "New Year's journey" in Weihai.

The entire customs clearance process was very smooth, and I could see bilingual guide signs for both Chinese and Korean at every stage of the clearance process. There were also many Korean speaking staff and volunteers who actively provided help and services, which felt really friendly, "said Mr. Jin, a passenger from South Korea.

Going to Weihai to welcome the New Year has become a new trend for many Korean tourists this year. According to statistics, around New Year's Day 2026, a total of 871 South Korean tourist groups entered through Weihai Port, a significant increase compared to the same period last year. Cross border tourism between China and South Korea has achieved a "good start".

In order to effectively cope with the increase in passenger flow and improve the efficiency of passenger clearance, Weihai Customs relies on the construction of a smart customs, fully utilizing monitoring methods such as smart telecommunications quarantine and on-site micro monitoring command center, as well as intelligent quarantine and inspection integrated machines, intelligent map review and other technical equipment. While accurately preventing and controlling risks and efficiently supervising, it strives to create a convenient and "seamless" clearance experience for inbound and outbound passengers.

Hou Lishu, the head of the Travel Inspection Department at the Weihai Customs Port Office, introduced that in order to ensure the safe and smooth clearance of group passengers, the customs has strengthened communication and contact with ports and shipping companies, and achieved pre preparation of team lists and pre collection of passenger information. Set up a "group passenger green channel" at the travel inspection site, arrange dedicated personnel to guide, achieve centralized inspection and rapid release of group passengers, reduce waiting time, and avoid congestion. At the same time, the customs will improve relevant emergency plans in a targeted manner, and make every effort to ensure the efficiency of port clearance under strict supervision. (Jiang Cui/Wen)