Media Release: 6 February 2025 The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO), in partnership with the Korean Society of Microscopy, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, Jeju Convention Bureau, and Jeju International Convention Center, has successfully secured the 14th Asia-Pacific Microscopy Conference (APMC14) for Jeju in November 2028. At the 13th APMC, held in Brisbane on 5 February 2025, Korea was selected as the final host after strong competition, highlighting the country’s excellence in research, technology, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) capabilities. APMC, held every four years since 1956, is a key international academic conference bringing together approximately 1,500 experts from 20 countries to share the latest advancements in microscopy and imaging technologies essential for materials science and biomedical research. Korea previously hosted APMC in Jeju in 2008, and securing it once again reinforces the country’s status as a leader in the field while promoting Jeju as a premier MICE destination. With around 700 international attendees expected, the event is projected to generate over AUD 3.5 million in economic benefits for Jeju’s hospitality, food, transport, and tourism sectors. The successful bid was made possible through extensive collaboration between key organisations. The Korean Society of Microscopy, led by Professor Yeo Jong-Souk from Yonsei University, leveraged its experience from hosting the International Microscopy Congress (IMC20) in Busan in 2023 to prepare a strong bid. The Jeju Convention Bureau and Jeju International Convention Center provided key support, including bid proposal development and on-site promotional activities. KTO also played a vital role in securing the bid. On 4 February, the day before the final selection, KTO Sydney sponsored a special dinner at Rydges South Bank Brisbane with key members of the microscopy community. This event provided an opportunity to engage with industry leaders and showcase Korea’s strengths as a premier MICE destination, further reinforcing Jeju’s suitability as the host city. Jung Chang-wook, Director of KTO’s MICE Division, stated, “This success reflects the strong collaboration between our MICE stakeholders. With increased international conference support funding in 2025, we will continue working closely with key partners to attract more large-scale events to Korea.” Looking ahead, KTO Sydney is planning further MICE initiatives in 2025 to attract more international conferences and business events to Korea. The team will also attend AIME 2025 in Melbourne, one of the Asia-Pacific region’s leading MICE trade shows, to strengthen industry partnerships and promote Korea as a top MICE destination.

Media Release: 16 December 2024 We are excited to announce that the K-ETA exemption period has been extended until 31 December 2025, reflecting South Korea’s continued rise as a premier tourist destination. This extension means that citizens from 68 countries, including Australia and New Zealand, can visit South Korea without the need to apply for a K-ETA for another year! Since 1 April 2023, Australian and New Zealand passport holders, along with nationals from 20 other countries, have not been required to apply for Korea’s Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA). This exemption, originally set to end on 31 December 2024, was introduced as part of the celebrations for Visit Korea Year 2023–2024, a Korean government initiative aimed at attracting more tourists to South Korea. During this period, South Korea has experienced record numbers of travellers from Australia and New Zealand, with visitor numbers continuing to grow due to the country’s increasing popularity. To celebrate this fantastic opportunity, the Korea Tourism Organization ANZ is hosting a $50 Klook gift card giveaway for 100 Australian and New Zealand citizens planning to travel to Korea by 30 June 2025. To enter, simply complete the form and upload a screenshot or image of your e-ticket showing your full name and travel destinations from Australia or New Zealand to Korea. [Apply here: tinyurl.com/KetaExtend] For nationals of countries not exempt from K-ETA, an online application must be submitted at least 72 hours before departure to South Korea and approved prior to travel. The cost of the K-ETA is 10,000 Korean Won (approximately AUD 11) per person. Nationals from exempt countries who opt to apply for K-ETA will be able to pass through immigration without submitting an arrival card. Existing K-ETAs will remain valid until their original expiration date, two years after issuance. Please note that refunds will not be issued. For further information about K-ETA, visit www.k-eta.go.kr.