Visitors flock to the Korea Travel Fiesta in Makati City on September 2, 2023. The event is in line with South Korea's 'Visit Korea Year 2023-2024' initiative where they offer various events, travel packages, and promotional campaigns using K-culture to boost visitors to the country. Mark Demayo, ABS-CBN News(UPDATED) Filipinos looking to visit South Korea now have a more convenient option, as the Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC) in the Philippines has started accepting visa applications by mail.

In a press release, courier company W Express said it partnered with the KVAC for Korean tourist visa application processing and delivery services.

"We are proud to play a part in enabling more Filipinos to experience the rich culture and beauty of Korea," W Express president and chairman Dawn Feliciano said in a statement.

KVAC managing director Ahn Kyu-suk added that the partnership "perfectly aligns with our [center's] mission to simplify and streamline the process, allowing applicants to concentrate on planning their trips rather than the logistics of visa application."

The KVAC earlier announced that Filipinos can submit their Tourist Visa (C-3-9) Application through W Express beginning May 1.

However, visa application of non-Filipinos and other types of visas must still be submitted personally to the KVAC or designated travel agencies.

According to W Express, the following is the process to get Korean tourist visas:

1. Complete the Korean Visa Application requirements
2. Submit the documents at any W Express branch (at over 100 locations nationwide)
3. Settle payment over the counter
4. Await delivery of your visa in 14 business days 

W Express said the application and delivery fee costs P1,900 per person and is "payable on-site," though the "delivery fee is subject to change depending on location."

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The entire process from submitting one's application to having their passport delivered typically spans 14 to 16 working days, W Express noted.

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