As South African nationals living and working in the ROK are aware, some provincial and local governments in the country have recently issued administrative orders requiring Covid-19 testing for all foreign nationals working in the affected provinces and cities.

In response to the implementation of these measures, a number of Embassies in the ROK, including this Embassy, formally expressed concern at the measures to the ROK government. During a meeting held on 22 March 2021 between representatives of the Embassies concerned and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to discuss the issue, it was indicated that the local authorities in the provinces and cities concerned were requested by the central government to clarify their measures, after which the Seoul and Incheon Metropolitan Governments amended their orders.

Regarding the way forward in those provinces and cities which have not yet clarified their measures, it was recommended that Embassies advise their nationals in the areas concerned to wait for a clarification. Should they eventually not amend their initial orders, the Embassy recommends that affected South African nationals do the mandatory test in order to avoid the heavy fines imposed for non-compliance.