Korea Switches to E-passports
As reported in the Digital Chosun, from August 25, 2008, all newly issued Korean passports will be electronically readable. The e-passports store holders’ identification data in a built-in electronic chip in the back cover of the passport to prevent fabrication. It looks the same as the older passports. (see the accompanying graphic. Click on the graphic to see a full-size version) Only e-passports will work for the visa waiver program to the U.S., which is expected to begin later this year. Those without a U.S. visa will be able to enter the U.S. by switching to the new e-passports and will be able to stay up to 90 days under the visa waiver program, once that is enacted.