Key Facts
• Anti-China protests in South Korea increased 14-fold in 2025 compared to 2024.
• Demonstrators chant “China Out!” and oppose visa-free entry for Chinese tourists.
• A YouTuber with 960,000 subscribers spread unverified claims about Chinese crimes.
• Police are investigating the YouTuber for spreading false information.
• Anti-China banners in Seoul allege crimes like organ trafficking without evidence.
• South Korea welcomed 472,000 Chinese tourists in October 2025, the highest among foreign visitors.
• Taiwanese tourists wear badges stating “I am from Taiwan” to avoid being mistaken for Chinese.
• Anti-China sentiment partly fueled by conspiracy theories about Chinese election interference.
• Former President Yoon Suk-yeol’s claims of Chinese meddling in South Korea’s elections intensified tensions.
• South Korea’s government is restricting protests near the Chinese Embassy in Seoul.
Summary
Anti-China sentiment is rising in South Korea, with protests, banners, and misinformation campaigns targeting Chinese nationals. Demonstrations have surged 14-fold since 2024, fueled by conspiracy theories and unverified claims of crimes by Chinese visitors. A YouTuber with a large following is under investigation for spreading false information, further exacerbating tensions. Despite this, Chinese tourists remain the largest group visiting South Korea, with 472,000 arrivals in October 2025. Taiwanese visitors have adopted badges to distinguish themselves from Chinese nationals amid the growing hostility. The South Korean government is taking measures to manage the situation, including restricting protests near the Chinese Embassy. The issue highlights the broader societal impact of misinformation and xenophobia.
