Tensions in Northeast Asia      Tourism Bureau: Travelers to South Korea Can Change Groups or Postpone Trips

Reported by You T●-Ru / Taipei

Tensions in Northeast Asia are rising. It is understood that, excluding the group returning from South Korea today (the 10th), there are currently 74 tour groups with over 1,400 travelers still visiting South Korea. To ensure the safety of these travelers, the Tourism Bureau has asked tour operators and tour leaders to maintain close contact. In the event of an emergency in South Korea, travelers should contact the nearest office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs — the Seoul Office (010-90802761) or the Busan Office (010-45377961) — for assistance.


▲Travelers who have already booked trips to South Korea may change groups or postpone departure. (Photo / Provided by Eastern News)

In addition, to protect consumers’ rights, travelers who have already booked trips to South Korea can change groups or postpone their departure. This arrangement has been coordinated between the Travel Agent Association of the Republic of China and national airlines (China Airlines and EVA Air), which have agreed not to charge change fees. As such, travel agencies will also waive fees for changing group tours or flight tickets for postponed trips. If travelers choose not to change groups or postpone and instead wish to cancel their trip, the amount of compensation required will be determined according to Clause 27 of the Standardized Outbound Travel Contract, based on when the cancellation notice reaches the travel agency.

The Tourism Bureau also reminds travelers that if they encounter consumption disputes that cannot be resolved, they may file a complaint with the Travel Quality Assurance Association of the Republic of China (Address: 11F, No. 78, Section 2, Chang’an East Road, Taipei City; Consumer Complaint Hotline: 0800-558-185) or with the Bureau itself (Address: 9F, No. 290, Section 4, Zhongxiao East Road, Taipei City; Free Complaint Hotline: 0800-211-734). Taiwanese nationals can also visit the website of the Ministry