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Korea and the U.S. on Wednesday agreed to promote and cooperate in crime prevention when travel to the U.S. becomes visa-free for Koreans after an epic negotiation process next year. Foreign Minister Yu Myung-hwan concluded a final agreement with U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff in Washington on Korea's inclusion in the visa waiver program. The agreement ˇ°concludes the process for Korea's participation in the program," Yu said.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Moon Tae-young on Thursday said implementation will be possible around mid-January next year. "The Korea-U.S. draft agreement will be reviewed by the Ministry of Government Legislation and the Cabinet, approved by the president, and signed formally with the U.S.,ˇ± he said. ˇ°Once it is ratified by the National Assembly, the U.S. will announce a list of new participants including Korea in the program around mid-October."
Those who want to visit the U.S. for tourist purposes for up to 90 days will be exempt from the need for a visa. Koreans who want to immigrate, study or work in the U.S. will still have to get a visa. To benefit, travelers to the U.S. need electronic passports.
(englishnews@chosun.com )
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