Seoul: South Korea will extend the waiver on visa processing fees for an additional six months until June for group tourists from six countries, including China, the finance chief said Wednesday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol announced that the fee exemption, which was originally set to expire Wednesday, will continue until the end of June next year. The six countries covered by the extension are China, India, Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Cambodia.

Koo stated that the plan aims "to maintain momentum in inbound tourism." The extension is part of South Korea's broader strategy to boost tourism and attract more visitors from these key markets. By waiving the visa fees, South Korea hopes to encourage more group tours, which are a significant contributor to the country's tourism sector.