According to the country's flag carrier on Tuesday, the measure, which follows an order issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), takes effect for flights departing from South Korea on Wednesday.
Under the order, all passengers boarding flights to the U.S. from overseas must sign a statement confirming they have not visited the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in the past three weeks before departure.
Passengers who fail to submit the form confirming they have not visited the DRC in the 21 days will be denied boarding, regardless of their nationality or whether the U.S. is their final destination.
The requirement also applies to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, airline crew members and passengers connecting through U.S. airports to other destinations. It also covers to those who only changed planes at an airport in the DRC, even if they did not leave the aircraft or airport terminal.
Each traveler including children and infants must submit a separate form, which can be completed either on paper or electronically.
Korean Air said it will inform passengers, especially U.S.-bound travelers, to avoid confusion at airports. The requirement is expected to last until Dec. 19, though the CDC may change or end it depending on the Ebola outbreak.
"The latest measure is mandatory under the U.S. health authority's order, so all affected passengers should check the requirements and prepare the necessary paperwork before arriving at the airport," a Korean Air spokesman said.
Meanwhile, Ebola is a deadly virus transmitted through direct contact with the blood or other bodily fluids of an infected person. Symptoms include fever, muscle pain and vomiting, and its incubation period can last up to 21 days.
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