SEOUL: The South Korean government will launch a "workation" visa next year to allow foreigners to travel across the country while working remotely, Yonhap news agency quoted the Justice Ministry on Friday.

The ministry said it will start issuing "digital nomad" or "workation" visas to foreigners with over a year of work experience in the same industry, and those eligible for remote work, along with their families, in a pilot programme beginning Jan 1.

To apply for the visa, applicants are required to have an annual income twice as much as South Korea's per capita gross national income (GNI).

South Korea's per capita GNI was 42.48 million won (US$33,002) last year.

Applicants should also have medical insurance that covers over 100 million won in medical treatment and repatriation fees, according to the ministry.

Travellers visiting under the visa cannot be hired or be involved in any profit-making activity during their stay.

The visa, which is valid for a year and renewable for up to two years, can be issued at South Korean embassies, and those currently residing in the country under a temporary visa can also apply for it if they meet the requirements.

The justice ministry said the issuance of the "workation" visas is expected to revitalise the local economy and provide an opportunity to promote the country's scenery and culture.

Previously, foreigners who wished to work remotely while staying in the country had to get tourist visas or their stays were limited to 90 days without a visa.

-- BERNAMA