Friday, November 29, 2024 South Korea’s tourism sector has made a significant comeback, with the number of foreign tourists visiting the country reaching 1.6 million in October 2024, according to the latest data from the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO). This marks an impressive 30.
1% increase in foreign visitors compared to the same month last year, and the country is now recovering 97% of the tourist levels seen before the COVID-19 pandemic in October 2019. The October figures are part of South Korea’s broader strategy to revive its tourism industry, which had taken a severe blow due to the pandemic. The country’s tourism sector is steadily bouncing back, as indicated by the growth in foreign visitors during the month of October.
In September 2024, South Korea welcomed approximately 1.46 million foreign tourists, still recovering but not yet reaching pre-pandemic levels. The 1.
6 million tourists in October are a positive sign that South Korea’s tourism recovery is gaining momentum, bringing the sector closer to its full recovery. Tourist Influx by Country China continues to lead the way in foreign tourist arrivals, contributing the largest share with 392,230 visitors. Japan followed closely with 323,266 visitors, and Taiwan saw 133,433 visitors, while the United States added 141,152 tourists.
The growth in Chinese tourists, while still not at full pre-pandemic levels, represents 69% of the 2019 figures, showing strong recovery. Additionally, Japan showed a 30% incre.