ETA South Korea for Hong Kong Citizens

The K-ETA visa waiver is not mandatory for Hong Kong citizens , however it allows them to skip the arrival card requirement.

If you’re a Hong Kong passport holder planning a trip to South Korea , you’ll need to be informed on the document requirements to enter the country. Depending on your travel plans, you may or may not need a visa for your visit.

This page outlines the South Korea visa requirements for Hong Kong citizens, and explains how to apply online for a K-ETA from Hong Kong .

Do Hong Kongers Need a Visa for South Korea?

To stay for 90 days or less as a Hong Kong citizen, you do not need a visa for South Korea .

The K-ETA visa waiver was previously required if you wanted to enter visa-free, however this is now an optional document for Hong Kongers .

The benefit of having an ETA for South Korea is that it replaces an arrival card , allowing you to skip this requirement when you arrive.

If you plan to stay in South Korea for longer than the 90-day visa-free period, you’ll need to get a visa through an embassy or consulate.

South Korea Visa Waiver for Hong Kong Passport Holders

Below you can find an outline of the South Korea ETA for Hong Kong nationals:

  • Length of stay: up to 90 days
  • ETA validity: 3 years
  • Number of entries: multiple
  • Reason for visit: tourism, visiting family, events, meetings, and business

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Remember that this is no longer mandatory if you’re a Hong Kong citizen , however it speeds up the immigration process when you get to South Korea.

South Korea Visa Waiver Requirements for Hong Kong Citizens

Hong Kong applicants must meet the South Korean online visa requirements before completing the form.

You only need a few basic items to start your request:

  • Valid Hong Kong passport
  • Active email address
  • Credit or debit card
  • Recent passport photo

South Korea K-ETA Application for Hong Kongers

The application form for a South Korea visa waiver for Hong Kongers only takes a few minutes to complete. All you need is an electronic device, like a smartphone, and an internet connection.

The following information is required:

Personal information

  • Date of birth
  • Country of citizenship

Contact details

  • Email address
  • Telephone number

Passport data

  • Country of passport
  • Passport number
  • Issue and expiry dates

Applicants must also state the date they intend to enter South Korea.

It is very important to double-check that the information is correct and error-free before submitting the K-ETA form. Mistakes or incorrect information can lead to delays, or even a rejected application.

Each traveler must complete a separate K-ETA application form . Those traveling to South Korea with children can complete the form on behalf of any minors.

South Korea Entry Requirements from Hong Kong

Hong Kong travelers need the following documents to visit South Korea:

  • Hong Kong passport
  • South Korea K-ETA or arrival card
  • Customs declaration
  • Return or onward ticket

There are additional safety measures in place for travel during the COVID-19 pandemic . Please check the latest COVID-19 entry requirements for South Korea before your trip.

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The K-ETA does not guarantee entry into South Korea. The final decision is with immigration authorities, once they have verified your documents.

Travel to South Korea from Hong Kong

The most common way to travel to South Korea from Hong Kong is by plane. You can travel with a Seoul visa waiver from Hong Kong International Airport directly to Seoul . There are also flights from HK to Jeju Island and Busan, with 1 stopover.

Hong Kong nationals are advised to consult the latest Korean news for more information about visiting South Korea, including current travel restrictions.

South Korea Embassy in Hong Kong

Hong Kong citizens do not need to visit a South Korean embassy or consulate to apply for a visa, as they can enter visa-free for 90 days.

If you do not meet the requirements for visa-free entry, you can apply for a visa at The Consulate General of the Republic of Korea . The office is located at the following address:

Far East Finance Centre 16

Harcourt Road

FAQs about Hong Kong Citizens Traveling to South Korea

Can citizens of hong kong travel to south korea.

Yes, if you’re a Hong Kong passport holder you can go to South Korea. You must have all required documentation.

Can Hong Kongers get a visa on arrival in South Korea?

There is no visa on arrival service in South Korea. All visitors, including Hong Kong citizens, must obtain a travel authorization before arrival.

Can Hong Kong citizens visit South Korea without a visa?

Hong Kong nationals can visit South Korea without a visa and stay for up to 90 days.

Can I travel from Hong Kong to Jeju Island with the K-ETA?

The ETA Korea for Hong Kongers is valid for travel to all parts of South Korea, including Jeju Island .

Travelers can fly to Seoul then take a domestic flight directly to Jeju Island.

How much is a South Korea Visa from Hong Kong?

The K-ETA from Hong Kong is the most cost-effective way to get a travel authorization for South Korea, as it is completely online. Applicants pay the processing fee securely through the online system.

How can you get a tourist visa for South Korea from Hong Kong?

Hong Kong travelers only need a visa for South Korea if they intend to stay in the country for more than 90 days, or for reasons other than tourism or business.

If you need a visa for your trip, you can apply through an embassy or consulate.

How long can Hong Kong citizens stay in South Korea?

Hong Kong passport holders can stay in South Korea for up to 90 days .

If you wish to stay in South Korea for longer than 90 days, you must apply for a visa instead.

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This page provides general information about visa requirements for Hong Kong residents travelling to Republic of Korea. For residents outside Hong Kong, please contact the nearest embassy or consulate. As the application requirements might change from time to time, please check with the relevant consulate if there are any enquiries or questions.

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​​​​​​​ Visa Requirement

The visa‑free entry for HKSAR passport holders resumed on 1 July 2022. However, travellers must apply for K-ETA and obtain approval in order to board aircraft and ships bound for Korea. K‑ETA is valid for multiple trips within 3 years from the approval date and the application fee is 10,000 KRW.

For details, please refer to the government official website .

HKSAR Passport holders: 90‑day visa‑free access HKDI holders: please click to read the application procedure

Consulate General of the Republic of Korea

5/F, Far East Finance Centre, 16 Harcourt Road, Hong Kong Enquiry Hotline: (852) 2529 4141 Email:  [email protected] Website:  http://overseas.mofa.go.kr/hk-en/index.do

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Covid-19: South Korea to resume visa-free entry for Hongkongers in July

Kelly Ho

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Hongkongers will be able to travel to South Korea without a visa again from July 1, more than two years since the visa-waiver programme was suspended in April 2020 because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

South Korea Changdeokgung Palace

In its latest move to lift travel restrictions, South Korean authorities announced on Monday night that it would resume visa-free entry for holders of Hong Kong and British National (Overseas) passports on July 1.

But travellers must obtain approval through the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) platform before boarding a flight or a ship bound for the country, the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Hong Kong said.

The electronic authorisation, which will open to Hong Kong and BNO passport holders for application at midnight on June 30, would be valid for multiple trips within two years. The K-ETA application costs KRW$10,000 (around HK$61) and South Korean authorities advised visitors to apply for the K-ETA at least 72 hours before their trip.

On Monday, South Korea reported 9,310 new Covid-19 infections and 12 related deaths. So far, the country’s caseload has exceeded 18 million. Hong Kong, on the other hand, registered 1,327 new cases and one death on Monday.

Hong Kong registered 1,327 new Covid-19 infections on Monday, of which 141 were imported. One new death was reported. Full, trusted coverage on HKFP: https://t.co/w8LTgNgHXy pic.twitter.com/ddCDMKwbra — Hong Kong Free Press HKFP (@hkfp) June 20, 2022

Hong Kong will join more than 100 countries and territories with which South Korea allows visa-free travel. The country started accepting K-ETA applications to passport holders from a number of places, including Malaysia and Thailand, from April 1.

On June 8, South Korea further relaxed entry restrictions by waiving its quarantine requirement for incoming travellers, including those who were unvaccinated. Visitors who enter South Korea are required to obtain a negative Covid-19 PCR test result taken 48 hours prior to their departure, or a rapid antigen test conducted within 24 hours before departure.

Travellers must do another PCR test within three days of their arrival. Those who test positive for Covid-19 will be placed under quarantine.

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Kelly Ho

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Ho Long Sze Kelly is a Hong Kong-based journalist covering politics, criminal justice, human rights, social welfare and education. As a Senior Reporter at Hong Kong Free Press, she has covered the aftermath of the 2019 extradition bill protests and the Covid-19 pandemic extensively, as well as documented the transformation of her home city under the Beijing-imposed national security law.

Kelly has a bachelor's degree in Journalism from the University of Hong Kong, with a second major in Politics and Public Administration. Prior to joining HKFP in 2020, she was on the frontlines covering the 2019 citywide unrest for South China Morning Post’s Young Post. She also covered sports and youth-related issues.

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South Korea

Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

South korea - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in South Korea.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to South Korea.

If you decide to travel to South Korea:

  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
  • Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
  • Review the  Country Security Report  for South Korea.   
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.   
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .    

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No – From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is not required for US citizens traveling for short-term business or tourism purposes.

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U.s. embassy seoul.

188 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03141, Korea Telephone: +(82) (2) 397-4114 (from within Korea, dial 02-397-4114)  DSN:721-4114 Fax: +(82) (2) 397-4101 Email:  [email protected]

U.S. Consulate in Busan

Lotte Gold Rose Building #612, Jungang-daero 993, Jin-gu Busan 47209, Korea Telephone: (+82) 51-863-0731 Email:  [email protected]

The Embassy and Consulate are closed on weekends and on  American and Korean holidays .  Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +82 (2) 397-4114.

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Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

  • You must have a valid U.S. passport to enter Korea. From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the  Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA)  is not required for US citizens for stays of 90 days or less that are for tourism or business purposes.
  • Visa required for all other purposes, including employment, teaching English, and for stays longer than 90 days.

Exceeding your authorized stay or not possessing a valid visa may result in detention and fines.

  • In the event of an overstay, apply for a visa extension from the  Korea Immigration Service (KIS)  before attempting to leave the country. Also consult with KIS regarding changes in visa category.

Military Personnel/DOD and their families on orders:

  • Consult  DOD Foreign Clearance Guide , and follow all instructions.
  • Enter Korea with DOD identification and travel orders.
  • Do not transit other countries such as China without a passport and appropriate visas.
  • Family Members/Dependents of Military Personnel/DOD on orders must present upon arrival passports valid for at least six months .

U.S. Government Executive Branch personnel on official business and DOD personnel assigned to the U.S. Embassy  (Including family members/dependents):

  • Employes assigned to Mission Korea should enter Korea with a diplomatic or official passport and a diplomatic or official Korean visa obtained through their sponsoring agency.  Check with your sponsoring agency about other requirements. 
  • TDY visitors traveling to Korea for up to 90 days on diplomatic or official passports do  not  require Korean visas and do  not  require a K-ETA. TDY visitors must obtain country clearance using  Department of State's eCC system  or  DOD APACS system .

HIV/AIDS Restriction:  The Department of State is unaware of any such entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents in Korea.

  • Visit the  Embassy of Korea  website for current visa information. Please read our  Customs Information page .

COVID-19 Requirements :

  • There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.
  • Travel regulations and restrictions are subject to change, sometimes with little notice. You should review the information available on your nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate’s webpage before traveling.

Safety and Security

Public Demonstrations:  Demonstrations and rallies are common in South Korea, particularly near the U.S. Embassy, Seoul City Hall, and areas surrounding military installations. You should avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or rallies. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.

North Korea (The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, DPRK):  An armistice agreement, monitored by the United Nations, has maintained general peace on the Korean peninsula since 1953. Tensions occasionally flare up because of provocative acts by North Korea, including ballistic missile and nuclear tests and limited armed incursions into ROK-held territory. Some provocations have escalated into geographically limited skirmishes. South Korea routinely conducts military training exercises and civil defense drills. North Korea often issues strongly-worded and threatening messages, frequently in connection with these exercises. Please see our  Fact Sheet on North Korea .

Weather-related Events:  Heavy rains and flooding may occur during the June - August monsoon season or the May - November typhoon season. See general information about natural disaster preparedness at the U.S.  Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  website.

Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ):  To receive security messages by email and make it easier to locate you in an emergency, register in STEP. 

If the Embassy becomes aware of any specific and credible threat to the safety and security of U.S. citizens, we will inform you through our website, social media, and email.

Crime:  For most visitors, South Korea remains a very safe country. Common crimes occur more frequently in major metropolitan areas, tourist sites, and crowded markets.

  • Take routine safety precautions.
  • Pay attention to your surroundings.
  • Report any concerns to local police.

Violent crime is not common; however, remain vigilant:

  • Exercise caution in crowded entertainment, nightlife, and shopping districts.
  • If traveling at night, consider traveling in groups.
  • Use legitimate taxis or public transportation only.

Victims of Crime:  Call 112 for emergency assistance or to report a crime to local authorities. Call 02-397-4114 to contact the U.S. Embassy. We can:

  • Help you find appropriate medical care;
  • Assist you in reporting a crime to police;
  • Contact relatives or friends on your behalf;
  • Explain Korean judicial procedures in general terms;
  • Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
  • Help you find accommodations and flight arrangements to the United States;
  • Replace a lost or stolen passport.

Sexual Assault:   The Embassy regularly receives reports of sexual assault from U.S. citizens. Most cases involved young women assaulted by acquaintances they met on social media, dating, or messaging apps. Alcohol is often involved, and Korea’s low overall crime can create a false sense of security.  Specialized hospital units and police are available in South Korea to assist victims, however services in English and responsiveness to the crime are not always consistent. In general, sex crimes are not punished as harshly in South Korea as in the United States and the road to prosecution is a challenging one for victims.

Domestic Violence:  Victim’s assistance resources or battered women’s shelters exist in Seoul and other urban areas but may be limited in rural areas. Most are government administered and require a police referral. Call 112 for emergency assistance or 1366 to reach Korea’s 24-hour domestic violence hotline. Victims may also contact the Embassy, tel. (+82) 2-397-4114.

Lost or Stolen Passports:  If your passport is stolen, file a report at the nearest police station.

Don't buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if widely available.  It is against South Korean law to purchase these goods and against U.S. law to bring them into the United States. The  Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Division in the U.S. Department of Justice  has more information.

Avoid fraud and scams:  See  Department of State  and  FBI  websites for more information.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  While in Korea, you are subject to local laws. If you violate Korean laws, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Be aware that:

  • Immigration violations can lead to arrest, fines, and deportation.
  • There is little tolerance for illegal drugs.
  • If you mail illegal drugs to/ from Korea, you will be prosecuted.
  • Commercial disputes may lead to criminal charges being filed under local laws.

Be aware that some crimes are prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the Embassy. See our  webpage  for further information.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

Dual Nationality and Military Conscription:  Dual national males (including U.S. service members) may be subject to compulsory military service. If you have family ties to South Korea, consult the nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate or the  Korean Military Manpower Administration  regarding potential citizenship obligations  before entering South Korea .

Passport Seizures and Exit Bans:  If you are involved in a criminal investigation or commercial dispute, authorities may seize your passport and/or block your departure. While we may reissue a passport, we cannot lift an exit ban.

Exit Permits:  Exit permits are not generally required. However, if a parent requests a travel restriction on his/her child, Korean authorities may prevent that child from departing even when traveling with the other parent. As of June 1, 2020, foreigners who are long-term residents of the ROK are required to obtain a re-entry permit four business days prior to departure from Korea. The permits are available online through an e-application at the  www.hikorea.go.kr  website.

International Child Abduction:  See our website for information related to the  prevention of international child abduction . 

Working in South Korea:  If working, including teaching or modeling, you must enter with the appropriate work visa. It is not possible to change your visa status without leaving the country. If you begin work without the appropriate visa, you may be arrested, fined, and/or deported. If you are working without a valid work permit and get into a contractual dispute with your employer, you have little legal recourse.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

ROK National Security Law:  Authorities may detain, arrest, and imprison persons believed to have committed acts intended to endanger the “security of the state,” including statements deemed to praise the political system and/or officials of the DPRK. 

Customs Regulations: There is strict enforcement of regulations on importing and exporting items such as firearms, narcotics and prescription drugs, non-prescription health supplements, radio equipment, and gold. Importation of materials deemed to be obscene, subversive, or harmful to the public peace is also restricted.

  • Amphetamines are illegal in Korea. Do not bring amphetamines or other prescription narcotics into the country without obtaining advance permission in writing from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. See the  U.S. Embassy Seoul, Health Information page .
  • Traveling with Pets: See  Korea’s Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency  website.

See the  Korean Customs Regulations website for complete information.

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See   our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of the  Department of State's Human Rights report  for further details.

Mobility Issues:  Korean law mandates access to transportation, communication, and public buildings. Cross walks typically have audio and visual signals. Older buildings and streets are generally less accessible than modern ones. Metro cars and buses in Seoul offer priority seating for the disabled and most metro stations have elevators. Metro platforms include Korean Braille information. Contact individual bus companies and subway associations for specific information. Foreign residents are eligible for disability assistance from local ward offices; assistance varies by ward.

Quality of Care : Western-style medical facilities are available in most large cities. However, not all doctors and staff, are proficient in English. A  list of hospitals  and medical specialists who speak English is available on our website. For emergency ambulance service dial 119. Ambulance services are widely available. For information on medical evacuation from South Korea, please see the State Department’s brochure on  Air Ambulance/MedEvac/Medical Escort Providers . 

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Verify your health insurance coverage before traveling overseas. See our webpage for information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage . In most cases, health care providers will require payment in advance of treatment or will not release a patient until hospital bills are paid. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to include coverage for medical evacuation.

Medication:  Carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Most prescription medications, except psychotropic types, can be obtained at Korean pharmacies (brand names often differ). Local pharmacies will require a prescription from a Korean doctor.

Update  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

For further health information go to:

  • World Health Organization
  • U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Roads are well-paved, traffic signals functional, and most drivers comply with basic traffic laws. South Korea has a significantly higher traffic fatality rate than the United States. Causes of accidents include excessive speed, frequent lane changes without signaling, running red lights, aggressive bus drivers, and weaving motorcyclists. It is recommended that you photo document any traffic accidents.

Be aware that motorcyclists may drive on sidewalks, and drivers do not always yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks.

Traffic Laws include:

  • International driving permit (or ROK license) is required for all drivers.
  • Left-hand turns prohibited except with green arrow.
  • Seat belts and car seats are mandatory.
  • Motorcycle passengers must wear helmets.
  • Automobile drivers are presumed to have some fault in accidents involving pedestrians.
  • Expect long waits at police stations while police investigate any incidents.
  • Police may take your passport or detain you during an investigation.
  • Even if negligence is not proven, criminal charges may be filed.
  • Blood-alcohol content of 0.03% or higher is considered legally intoxicated.
  • Police regularly set up DUI checkpoints. Drivers are required to submit to breathalyzer tests; refusal can result in cancellation of your license.

For information about driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, refer to our  Road Safety page . You may also visit the  Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) website.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the Republic of Korea's Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the ROK's air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA's Safety Assessment Page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to South Korea should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at the U.S. Department of Transportation’s  Maritime Security Communications with Industry Web Portal . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and as a broadcast warning on the  National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s website .

For additional travel information

  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
  • Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
  • See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

South Korea was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  South Korea.  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Follow our news, recent searches, egypt tomb find may shed light on ancient diseases: ministry, advertisement.

Numerous ancient tombs and antiquities have been uncovered near the Egyptian city of Aswan. Here an Egyptian guard sits at the Philae temple complex in the southern Egyptian city in this file photo taken on March 6, 2023 (Photo: REUTERS/Amr Abdallah Dalsh)

CAIRO: A discovery of 33 ancient tombs in Egypt's southern city of Aswan could reveal "new information on diseases" prevalent at the time, the tourism and antiquities ministry said on Monday (Jun 24).

The tombs date back to the Ancient Egyptian Late Period and the Greco-Roman Periods, which collectively lasted from the seventh century BC until around the fourth century AD.

The burials were found by a joint Egyptian-Italian archaeological mission.

Ayman Ashmawy, who heads the Supreme Council of Antiquities' Egyptian Antiquities Division, said studies of the mummies "indicate that 30 to 40 per cent of those buried died in their youth, as newborns or as adolescents".

Patrizia Piacentini, professor of Egyptology and archaeology at the University of Milan, headed the Italian side of the mission.

She said preliminary studies on the remains showed that "some suffered from infectious diseases, while others had bone disorders".

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Egypt archaeologists unearth 110 ancient tombs in Nile Delta

The remains of several adult women showed signs of pelvic bone trauma.

Other mummies indicated "anaemia, malnutrition, chest diseases, tuberculosis and signs of osteoporosis", Piacentini said in a ministry statement.

Since 2018, the mission has been excavating the area around the Aga Khan mausoleum where Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah is buried, on the west bank of the Nile River just across from Aswan city centre.

Among the remains found were "an adult, perhaps a woman, and a child who may have died at the age of one or two", said Abdelmoneim Said, General Director of Aswan and Nubia Antiquities.

"The two bodies were still attached to each other inside a stone coffin," he added.

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