JEJU: A group of Vietnamese tourists who entered South Korea through the southern island of Jeju last month has disappeared, authorities said Tuesday. The 38 individuals were part of a larger group of approximately 90 tourists who arrived in Jeju from Nha Trang, Vietnam, on a chartered VietJet Air flight on November 14.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the Jeju Tourism Organization confirmed the disappearance, raising concerns over the whereabouts and intentions of the missing tourists. The group was initially expected to enjoy the scenic attractions of Jeju, a popular destination known for its unique visa-free entry policy for tourists. This policy, designed to boost tourism, has occasionally faced scrutiny due to instances of visitors overstaying their welcome or disappearing altogether.

Local authorities have launched an investigation to locate the missing tourists and are working closely with immigration officials to track their movements since their arrival. The situation has also prompted discussions
on reviewing and potentially tightening entry policies for specific tour groups to prevent similar occurrences in the future.