Under South Korea’s tax refund program, foreign visitors can receive refunds on VAT and individual consumption tax included in purchases made at designated duty-free stores when goods are confirmed for export at departure.
However, cruise passengers — who enter under a separate shore-excursion permit rather than standard immigration procedures — have faced difficulties using immediate or in-city refund services due to their short stay.
The customs agency said it will link its vessel arrival reports and passenger manifest data to the refund system, allowing operators to verify eligibility for cruise tourists. With the number of cruise visitors expected to reach 2 million this year, the measure is expected to shorten waiting times for customs clearance and make tax refunds more convenient.
Korea Customs Service Commissioner Lee Myung-koo said the change would allow cruise tourists to enjoy both shopping and tax refund benefits during their brief stay. He added that the agency will continue working with relevant authorities to further streamline refund procedures for foreign visitors.
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