TOKYO- Japan and South Korea have announced the implementation of priority immigration lanes at airports for travellers moving between the two countries, according to a statement released by Tokyo’s Immigration Services Agency on Wednesday (May 21, 2025).
The initiative aims to streamline border processing for frequent travellers as both nations celebrate 6 decades of normalised diplomatic relations.
Japan and South Korea Priority Lane Program
The priority lane program will operate throughout June, offering expedited immigration processing for eligible travellers at airports. These dedicated lanes will function daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., creating a more efficient entry experience during peak travel hours.
The program targets frequent travellers between the two countries.
Passport holders from either Japan or South Korea qualify for the priority lanes if they have visited the other country at least once within the previous year.
While the lanes promise faster processing, travellers must complete certain pre-arrival procedures to access this benefit.
Participating Airports
Four major airports across both countries will participate in the trial:
In Japan:
- Haneda Airport (HND) (specifically for flights arriving at Terminal 3)
- Fukuoka Airport (FUK)
In South Korea:
- Gimpo International Airport in Seoul (GMP)
- Gimhae International Airport in Busan (PUS)
These airports serve as critical connection points between the neighbouring countries, handling significant passenger volumes daily.
The Immigration Services Agency explained that this special measure commemorates the 60th anniversary of normalised diplomatic relations between Japan and South Korea.
The initiative represents one of several collaborative efforts to strengthen ties and facilitate greater people-to-people exchange between the nations.
Strong Travel Demand
The implementation of priority lanes responds to the substantial travel volume between these East Asian neighbours.
“More than 12 million people travelled between Japan and South Korea in 2024, highlighting the significant bilateral movement.”
Foreign Ministry, Japan
For Japanese citizens, South Korea ranks as the most popular international travel destination. Similarly, Japan tops the list of preferred foreign destinations for South Korean travellers. The Japan National Tourism Organisation revealed that approximately 2.5 million South Korean visitors entered Japan in just the first quarter of this year, demonstrating the robust tourism exchange.
Bilateral Relations
This immigration initiative follows a period of improving relations between the two countries after years of historical tensions. By enhancing travel convenience, both governments acknowledge the importance of people-to-people exchanges in strengthening bilateral ties.
The priority lanes program, while currently limited to a one-month trial, could potentially serve as a model for future immigration cooperation between the countries if successful. Tourism officials from both nations will likely monitor the initiative closely to evaluate its effectiveness and consider possible expansion or permanent implementation.
As travellers begin utilising these expedited lanes in June, the program stands as a tangible symbol of the evolving relationship between Japan and South Korea, prioritising practical cooperation and enhanced connectivity between their populations.
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