The cost of obtaining a ROK passport has been a hot topic of discussion among South Koreans as the government recently announced an increase in the passport application fees. This move has sparked controversy and debate among citizens who are concerned about the financial burden it may place on individuals looking to travel abroad.
The ROK government has cited rising administrative costs and the need to upgrade security features in the passports as reasons for the fee increase. The new passport application fee will now cost 60,000 won, which is a 20% increase from the previous fee of 50,000 won. Additionally, expedited passport services will cost 100,000 won, up from the previous fee of 90,000 won.
Many South Koreans have expressed their frustration and dissatisfaction with the fee hike, arguing that it unfairly targets the middle and lower-income individuals who may already struggle with the cost of travel. Some have taken to social media to voice their concerns, with hashtags like #NoToPassportFeeHike trending on Twitter.
“I think it’s outrageous that the government is increasing the passport fees at a time when many people are struggling financially due to the pandemic,” said Lee Hye-jin, a 28-year-old office worker in Seoul. “Traveling is already expensive as it is, and now they want to make it even more costly. It’s just not fair.”
Others have pointed out that the fee increase comes at a time when countries around the world are starting to reopen their borders to tourists, leading to an increase in demand for passports. Some fear that the higher fees may discourage individuals from applying for passports, thus limiting their ability to travel internationally.
In response to the backlash, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has defended the fee hike, stating that it is necessary to cover the increasing costs of producing and distributing passports. They have also emphasized the need for enhanced security features in the passports to prevent counterfeiting and fraud.
“We understand the concerns of the public, but the fee increase is necessary to ensure the integrity and security of our passports,” said a spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “We have taken steps to minimize the impact on individuals by implementing a gradual increase in fees and offering expedited services for those who require their passports urgently.”
Despite the government’s explanations, many South Koreans remain unconvinced and are calling for a reevaluation of the fee increase. Some have suggested alternative solutions, such as offering discounts for students and low-income individuals or implementing a sliding scale based on income.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the fee hike will impact passport applications in South Korea. While some may be willing to pay the higher fees for the convenience of international travel, others may be deterred by the additional costs. One thing is certain – the cost of obtaining a ROK passport is now higher than ever, leaving many citizens questioning the affordability and accessibility of travel in the post-pandemic world.
