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If you are someone who dreams of exploring beautiful destinations without the hassle of visas, Jeju Island in South Korea tops your list.

It is known as the “Hawaii of Korea”, think stunning volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear beaches, and that perfect mix of nature and culture.

However, what happens when a dream trip turns into a nightmare at the airport? That is exactly what happened to Indian content creator Sachin Awasthi and his wife.

We came across Sachin’s story recently, and it really hit home.

As fellow Indians who love to travel, we believe that sharing these real experiences helps everyone prepare better.

So let us break it down and clearly what went wrong, why it might be happening more often to Indian travellers, and how you can avoid it.

The Dream That Turned Into A Nightmare

Sachin and his wife were excited for a winter getaway.

They wanted to experience Christmas in a cold place, enjoy snow, and relax on visa-free Jeju Island.

Indians get 30 days visa-free entry to Jeju (no K-ETA required until December 2026), so it seemed straightforward.

They booked flights via Bangkok, had return tickets, hotel bookings, and everything was sorted.

However, the moment they landed at Jeju International Airport, things went downhill fast.

Immigration officers checked their passports, pulled them aside without asking many questions, and stamped “Entry Denied” on pre-printed forms.

The reason? “Purpose of stay not clear.”

No detailed interview, no chance to explain, just straight to a detention centre.

Sachin described the conditions as jail-like: thin 2 cm mattresses, brick-hard pillows, dirty washrooms, and terrible food (steamed rice, boiled potato, some kimchi that no one touched).

They were held for a total of over 38 hours.

Movement was restricted, no touching pockets, no drinking their own water, and bathroom visits only with a guard watching.

Phones were limited, and no clear answers on when they would leave.

The ordeal did not end there.

On the return transit through Shanghai, they faced even stricter treatment, stuck in a tiny room for 8 hours, no movement allowed, and constant monitoring.

Airlines pressured them into buying expensive last-minute tickets (economy forced despite business-class prices quoted), and some staff allegedly used threatening language with other passengers.

Sachin felt it was unfair, possibly discriminatory, especially since many Indians were in the same detention area.

He and his wife were mentally exhausted, crying at points, but stayed strong for each other.

Jeju looks like paradise from the outside, with volcanic cliffs, waterfalls, and beaches, but the entry process can be tough.

Why Is This Happening? The Reality Of Visa-Free Entry

Jeju’s visa-free policy is great on paper, but entry is never guaranteed.

The Indian Embassy in Seoul recently issued a clear advisory after Sachin’s story went viral:

A visa waiver is only for short-term tourism on Jeju Island.
You cannot travel to mainland South Korea without a separate visa.
Final admission is decided solely by immigration officers at Jeju Airport.
Common reasons for denial: unclear purpose of stay, weak ties to home country (job proof, family, finances), or suspicion of overstay/illegal work.

Many Indian travellers have shared similar stories online, denied despite documents, because officers decide on the spot.

It is not racism per se, but strict enforcement to prevent misuse of the visa waiver.

Airports like Jeju International see crowded immigration lines where quick decisions are made.

Practical Tips To Avoid This Nightmare

If you are planning Jeju or any visa-free destination, prepare as if your entry depends on it (because it does!):

Strong Proof of Ties to India: Carry employment letter, bank statements (last 3-6 months), property docs, family details. Show you are coming back.
Clear Itinerary: Detailed day-by-day plan, hotel bookings (not just Airbnb), return tickets (same airline if possible), and travel insurance.
Cash Requirement: Some countries ask for proof of funds. Carry $50-100/day in cash or show card limits.
Airline Support: Choose airlines with good rebooking policies. Avoid tight connections.
Emergency Contacts: Save the Indian Embassy in Seoul number. Try contacting them early if issues arise.
Backup Plan: Have extra funds for new tickets/hotels if denied.

The embassy stresses: treat visa-free as a privilege, not a right.

Quick Trivia

Did you know Jeju Island’s Hallasan Mountain is South Korea’s tallest peak at 1,947 meters? It is a dormant volcano and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Climbing it is a popular hike, but only if you actually get in!

At the end of the day, travel is about wonderful memories, not stress.

Sachin’s story is a wake-up call – always over-prepare.

If you are heading to Jeju or anywhere else, double-check the rules and pack your documents smartly.

We hope this helps you travel safer and smarter.

Drop your thoughts in the comments.

Have you faced immigration surprises?

Stay tuned for more real travel stories, tips, and guides from THOUSIF Inc. – INDIA.

Safe journeys, friends!