When entering Korea from abroad, travelers can receive a 30 percent reduction in customs duties (up to 200,000 won) by voluntarily reporting goods that exceed the duty-free range ($800 or less).
However, it’s essential to note that failure to report may result in a surcharge of up to 60% of the tax due.
Upon departure, individuals caught attempting to take more than $10,000 in cash out of the country without reporting it to customs may face penalties such as fines.
Airport Customs explained that the crackdown aims to prevent illegal goods from being brought into the country and to establish a culture of voluntary disclosure, particularly due to the recent increase in international travelers.
Additionally, Airport Customs will strengthen inspections for drug trafficking, as drug smuggling through travelers has been on the rise.
BY JUNHAN PARK [park.junhan@koreadaily.com]
