Vacationers move to a rental car parking lot after landing at Jeju International Airport, the gateway to Jeju Island, on July 10, 2021. (Yonhap)
SEOUL, April 18 (Korea Bizwire) — The provincial government of Jeju Island, South Korea’s most popular vacation destination, is considering implementing an “environmental preservation contribution” for visitors to the island.
The objective is to charge tourists a certain amount of money upon entry based on the principle that those who use the natural environment should contribute to its conservation costs.
In August of last year, the provincial government collaborated with the Korea Environment Institute to evaluate the feasibility of the initiative.
The provincial government plans to modify the law to require tourists to pay 10,000 won (US$7.58) as part of port and airport usage fees instead of individually imposing the charge.
Additionally, the government is considering adding a certain tariff to accommodation, charter bus, and car rental fees since these services generate environmental pollution.
However, those interested in implementing the new charge still face challenges, such as negative perception towards it as an island entrance fee, disputes over double taxation, and regional fairness.
“The initiative can only be introduced with national consent and requires careful planning and strategy. Therefore, the provincial government is taking a cautious approach,” Jeju Gov. Oh Young-hun said during the provincial assembly’s plenary session on Thursday.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
