The number of visitors to the island soared from 80,000 in 2022 to 700,000 in 2023, and further to 1.9 million last year, according to the Jeju Provincial Police and the Jeju Tourism Association.

However, this growing popularity has resulted in increasing crime rates, with reported cases climbing from 500 in 2019 to 608 in 2023, the South China Morning Post reported.

Jeju Island operates a visa-waiver program to boost tourism, allowing nationals from 111 countries and territories to enter without a visa. Under this policy, foreign tourists can stay on the island for up to 30 days but are not permitted to travel to other parts of South Korea.

In a survey earlier this year, about half of Jeju residents expressed concerns that the island’s foreigner-only casinos contribute to the rise in local crime, and called for stricter government regulation, according to The Korea Times.

To address these concerns, Jeju police launched a “100-day special law enforcement campaign” starting March 23, focusing on crimes involving foreigners and public order violations.

“In addition to inflated prices, crimes committed by foreigners could further discourage domestic tourism,” an association official said. The official also warned that if negative sentiment continues to grow, foreign tourists may begin to reconsider their plans to visit Jeju.

Famed for its natural beauty, relaxed pace of life, and unique culture, Jeju has long been a favorite destination for both domestic and international travelers.

The South Korean government is also working to promote the island, especially in light of the popularity of Netflix’s hit Korean drama “When Life Gives You Tangerines”, which was filmed on Jeju.

Released on March 7 in 190 countries, the series starring IU and Park Bo-gum ranked fifth globally among Netflix’s top television shows, according to streaming analytics site FlixPatrol.