Chinese Nationals selling Used Entry Cards Online, sparking Outrage and Questions About Visa Access
Taipei, Taiwan – August 25, 2025 – A surprising trend has emerged online: Chinese nationals are reportedly selling used entry cards for South Korea and Japan, prompting both amusement and concern regarding visa accessibility and entrepreneurial practices. The practice,documented in a report by Mirror Weekly,highlights a novel,if ethically questionable,approach to small-scale commerce.
The phenomenon came to light after reports surfaced of individuals offering stacks of previously used Chinese entry cards for sale online. These cards, typically obtained after travel to South Korea’s Jeju Island or mainland Korea, are being marketed for as little as 48-55 RMB (approximately NT$203-233) for multiple cards with free shipping. Similar listings for Japanese entry cards have also been identified.
The motivation behind the purchases remains largely speculative, but online commentary suggests some buyers intend to use the cards as props for social media, creating the illusion of international travel. ”Some people will buy this entry card and send it to social media to pretend they are going to south Korea… Many children will buy it,” one netizen reportedly commented. Others questioned the value proposition, suggesting saving money for actual travel would be more practical. “Just take a plane, but rather of spending money to buy a fake one, it is indeed better to save some money to see it,” one commenter stated.
The practice also underscores the difficulties many Chinese citizens face in obtaining visas for international travel. “Not every Chinese can successfully apply for a visa,” a commenter pointed out, highlighting the potential demand fueled by limited access.
While some initially doubted the veracity of the reports, searches confirmed the existence of these online marketplaces. Listings for 10 Jeju Island entry cards were found for 55 RMB, and 8 Korean entry cards for 48 RMB.
The unusual business venture has elicited a range of reactions online, with some expressing disbelief. Comments translated from Chinese included, “Hahahaha, is the old Chinese so outrageous?” and “Provided that you get it for free, you will make a profit.” Others questioned the ethical implications, with one user asking, “Is [someone] treating the entry card as a permanent residence permit?” and another reflecting, “Every time I see this, I don’t know if I should reflect on whether I have no business acumen or the bottom line is too high.”
Context: China’s Evolving Travel Landscape & Visa Restrictions
This incident occurs within a broader context of evolving travel dynamics for Chinese citizens. While China has seen a meaningful increase in outbound tourism in recent decades, obtaining visas for certain destinations remains challenging. visa restrictions, particularly for younger citizens, have been tightened in recent years, ostensibly to curb capital flight and unauthorized emigration. This has led to a thriving gray market for visa assistance and, now, seemingly, used entry cards.
Jeju Island, a popular tourist destination for Chinese travelers, offers a visa-free entry program for short-term stays. This program, while intended to boost tourism, has inadvertently created a supply of used entry cards that are now being exploited for commercial gain.
The sale of these cards raises questions about the potential for fraud and the effectiveness of border control measures. While the cards themselves do not grant entry into a country, thier use in deceptive practices could undermine trust in travel documentation.
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