Tourism in South Korea Continues to Rebound – Chinese Visitors Boost Arrivals

The tourism industry in South Korea has been steadily getting back on track following the pandemic with arrival numbers on the rise. According to the Korea Tourism Organisation, in July this year, the country welcomed 1,032,188 tourists; this was the first time more than a million visitors had been recorded for a month since the end of the global pandemic. The July figure was up 71% from the same period in 2019 and a significant 291% increase when compared to July last year.

More travellers are expected in the months to come following China’s decision in August 2023 to include South Korea in its list of countries and regions where group tours are allowed. To further encourage Chinese visitors, South Korea is planning to waive visa processing fees for tourists from China till the end of December. Additional flights are to also come into effect between the two nations along with simplifying duty-free tax refunds. Such travellers are enjoying experiencing the nation’s capital once more with safe stays on offer be it at a Dongdaemun or Myeongdong hotel; Seoul continues to be a popular choice for tourists with properties like Travelodge Myeongdong Euljiro providing easy access to the best of the city.