Jeju Takes Action as Tourism Booms: Multilingual Etiquette Notices Introduced

Jeju is welcoming visitors in record numbers! With over 7 million tourists arriving this year and foreign arrivals jumping 14.2 percent—surging 40 percent in July alone—the island is buzzing with activity.

But with more visitors comes new challenges. Between March and June, the Jeju Provincial Police recorded over 4,800 incidents of disorderly behavior, including jaywalking, littering, and public urination. Viral videos of misbehaving tourists have also sparked public concern.

To keep the island safe and welcoming, Jeju has introduced its first multilingual etiquette notices. Printed in Korean, English, and Chinese, these 8,000 notices explain local laws and customs, from jaywalking and littering to smoking restrictions. Minor offences will be met with warnings rather than immediate fines, encouraging cooperation without confrontation.

Even the younger generation is getting involved: six students from Pyoseon Elementary School submitted suggestions to promote better behavior among tourists, noting the need for clear reporting channels for misconduct.

With these new measures, Jeju aims to create a respectful and enjoyable environment for everyone — residents and visitors alike — while continuing to thrive as a top travel destination.

 

Source: Korea Times