Justice Minister Kim Jung-kil instructed immigration officials Monday to simplify procedures for foreigners entering the country ahead of the drastic increase expected to come here for next year's World Cup soccer finals.

Kim addressed the heads of immigration offices across the country and the ministry's resident officials abroad during a meeting to discuss ways to improve immigration administration.

The minister also urged them to establish a more efficient inspection system to cope with the opening of inter-Korean rail and road routes and curtail the entry of illegal foreign workers.

The ministry will intensify controls at commercial, residential and entertainment spots popular with foreigners to combat the large increase in illegal immigrants expected to accompany improving living conditions.