Muan-gun Issues 'Next-Generation Electronic Passports' with Enhanced Security Features

Increase in 면수 and Enhancement of Security and Durability

Next-generation electronic passport made of polycarbonate material with enhanced security and durability ⓒ Asia Economy

[Muan＝Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Oh Hwan-joo] Jeonnam Muan-gun announced on the 3rd that it will start issuing the ‘Next-Generation Electronic Passport’ made of polycarbonate material with enhanced security and durability from the 21st.

The cover color of the next-generation electronic passport will change from the existing green to navy blue. In addition, the personal information page will adopt polycarbonate (PC, a type of plastic) material engraved by laser, further enhancing durability and security.

The number of visa pages has been expanded from the existing 24 and 48 pages to 26 and 58 pages. Although the number of visa pages has increased, the passport issuance fees remain the same as the current fees, at 50,000 KRW (26 pages) and 53,000 KRW (58 pages), respectively.

Along with the issuance of the next-generation passport, passport administrative services will also be newly improved. With the increase in the number of visa pages, the visa sticker system will be abolished.

Additionally, a direct mail delivery service will be implemented, where passports issued only to visitors applying in person will be individually sent to applicants by mail.

The current passport will be issued in parallel with the next-generation passport in the first half of next year, with the issuance fee reduced to 15,000 KRW, which is cheaper than the next-generation passport fee, and the validity period shortened to less than 5 years (4 years and 11 months).

County Governor Kim San stated, “We will continuously strive to meet the expectations and interests of residents who have awaited the implementation of the next-generation electronic passport issuance, while ensuring the safe and convenient provision of passport administrative civil services without any disruption.”

Muan＝Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Oh Hwan-joo ohj1358@asiae.co.kr