Macau Luxury Resort Debuts in Busan
The Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau, a leading luxury resort complex, held its first official press conference in Busan to target the local tourism market. The resort has chosen Wavtour & Golf as its regional distributor and plans to promote golf travel packages linked with resort stays. On April 14th, the resort hosted a gala dinner for local travel industry representatives, Busan Tourism Corporation officials, and media from Busan. This marks the first time the resort has held such an event in Busan. 💬 What exciting new travel packages are you most interested in?
Winter Travel Spikes: Where Did Bookings Surge This Month?
Travel agency ParkGolf and tour operator NextTour have partnered with Seoul West Future Education Institute to develop specialized travel packages combining golf courses and tourism. The collaboration aims to create domestic and international golf travel products, as well as events like tournaments, seminars, and group tours for enthusiasts. NextTour plans to offer customized itineraries that include flights, accommodation, transportation, sightseeing, and relaxation based on participant numbers and goals. This partnership is expected to expand the theme of sports, hobbies, and education in travel. With winter travel reservations on the rise, destinations in warm Southeast Asia are likely to be popular choices this December. 💬 Which destination do you think will see the most travel bookings this December?
K-Chicken Pilgrimage in Gumi: A Taste Beyond Compare
Discover the unique flavors of Gumi, known as the K-Chicken capital. This culinary journey takes you through the heart of Gumi's rich chicken culture, where each bite is a testament to local expertise and tradition. From crispy textures to savory flavors, the experience is more than just a meal—it's a cultural exploration. Join us on this gastronomic tour that celebrates the essence of Korean chicken cuisine. 💬 What’s your favorite K-Chicken spot for a culinary adventure?
Korea Tourism: How SNS Influences Teen Travelers
Social media platforms are increasingly shaping the travel desires of young Korean tourists. This trend is particularly evident in the interest sparked by K-pop idols' fashion and lifestyle content. The article explores how these images and videos on SNS (Social Networking Services) make destinations like Seoul and Busan more appealing to a younger audience. It highlights the impact of K-pop culture on tourism, showcasing how idol concept photos and music videos can inspire travel plans. The piece also discusses the role of influencers and celebrities in promoting Korea as a tourist destination, emphasizing the importance of visual content in attracting international visitors. 💬 Which concept photo is your favorite?
Korean Travel Souvenirs Foreign Visitors Can't Get Enough Of
When traveling to Korea, many foreign visitors are drawn to unique souvenirs that stand out from the ordinary. From artisanal crafts and traditional snacks to innovative gadgets and eco-friendly products, these items not only make great gifts but also offer a glimpse into Korean culture and craftsmanship. Popular choices include handcrafted pottery, spicy seafood snacks like haemul pajeon (seafood pancake), and eco-friendly bamboo toothbrushes. These items are often found in local markets and specialty stores, making them perfect for those looking to bring a piece of Korea home. Whether you're shopping for yourself or as a gift, these distinctive souvenirs are sure to impress and remind you of your trip to Korea. 💬 Which Korean souvenir do you think should be a must-buy for tourists?
K-Treasure Road Opens in Seoul’s Popular District
The Korea Visit Committee is launching a cultural tourism project called 'K-Boon-gil' (K-Treasure Road) in the trendy Seoul district of Seongbuk. This initiative, which involves SK Telecom, the National Museum of Korea, and the National Museum Foundation, aims to boost foreign tourist spending. The project will be centered around SKT's 'T Factory Seongbuk,' where visitors can experience various goods and content created through collaboration with the museums. The opening event and first program are scheduled for November, with plans to expand gradually until the first year of the 'Visit Korea Year' in 2027. 💬 Which concept photo is your favorite?
lotte Launches Exclusive Tourist Membership Season 2 for International Travelers
lotte has recently launched its second season of a dedicated tourist membership program aimed at international travelers. This initiative offers various perks and discounts to enhance the travel experience in Korea, including access to exclusive events, shopping benefits, and special deals on accommodations and attractions. The program is designed to make traveling in Korea more convenient and enjoyable for tourists, making it an essential tool for anyone planning a trip to the country. With the increasing popularity of Korean culture and tourism, this membership could be a game-changer for visitors looking to explore all that Korea has to offer. 💬 What features are you most excited about in the new membership program?
Korean Tourism Evolves Beyond Eating: New Experiential Trends
Korea's tourism industry is shifting from a focus on eating to more immersive experiences. Recent trends highlight activities like cultural workshops, scenic tours, and interactive events that offer visitors a deeper connection with Korean culture. This evolution aims to attract a broader range of travelers seeking authentic and engaging experiences beyond just sightseeing and dining. The government and private sector are investing in these new initiatives to boost the country's appeal as a destination for both domestic and international tourists. 💬 Which concept photo is your favorite?
Travel Agencies Struggle with Varying Documentation Demands
Travel agencies are facing significant challenges due to varying documentation requirements from different institutions. While it is understandable that thorough documentation is necessary for public-funded projects, the issue arises from the inconsistent demands placed on them. Each institution requires different types and scopes of paperwork, forcing agencies to constantly adapt to new standards. This not only increases administrative burdens but also leads to delays and additional costs. The situation highlights the need for standardized procedures to streamline the process for both travel agencies and institutions. 💬 What's the most frustrating part of organizing international trips for you?
Kimchon's Kimbap Festival: A Delicious Evolution of Festivals
In the face of the 'rural depopulation' crisis, Gyeongsan City in North Gyeongsang Province has launched a unique 'reverse thinking' strategy to revitalize its local economy. The highlight is the '2026 Kimchon Kimbap Festival,' set to take place from October 23 to 25 at various parks including Jikji Cultural Park, Sammyeong-daesa Park, and Eco-Friendly Ecological Park. This festival originated from a casual joke among young people about whether 'Kimchon’s specialty is Kimbap Heaven.' By transforming this joke into a vibrant brand, the festival has become a hit, earning it the title of 'Best Festival' for the year in Gyeongsan City. 💬 Which concept photo is your favorite?
Korea's Hidden Gem: A Swiss Alps-Like Destination
Discover a stunning travel destination in Korea that rivals the Swiss Alps, attracting foreign visitors with its breathtaking scenery and serene atmosphere. This hidden gem offers a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers. From picturesque landscapes to charming local villages, this region combines natural beauty with cultural richness, making it a must-visit for both domestic and international tourists. Explore the best spots, local accommodations, and activities that make this area a top choice for those seeking a tranquil getaway. 💬 Which concept photo is your favorite?
More Flights to Japanese Towns: Visiting Kagoshima & Hakodate Easier This Fall
Starting in October and November, travel to Japanese towns like Kagoshima and Hakodate has become more convenient with additional flights. Air Busan and Jeju Air will operate regular flights from Busan and Incheon to these destinations. From October 25th, Air Busan will run a weekly schedule of three flights (Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday) between Gimhae International Airport and Kagoshima Airport. The flight departs at 3:55 PM and arrives at 5:15 PM, while the return flight leaves at 6:35 PM and arrives back in Busan at 7:55 PM. The journey takes approximately one hour and twenty minutes. 💬 Which concept photo is your favorite?
Onsen Retreats in Ureshino, Saga: From Budget Hotels to Traditional Ryokans
Ureshino in Saga Prefecture, Japan, is renowned for its excellent water quality. Whether you prefer budget-friendly hotels or traditional ryokans with a 190-year history, there are three accommodation options that offer a blend of hot springs, local cuisine, and cultural experiences. From cost-effective hotels with scenic outdoor baths to newly designed lodgings, visitors can choose based on their preferences. This area promises a relaxing getaway where you can enjoy the natural beauty and rich culture of Ureshino. 💬 Which concept photo is your favorite?
Koreans Flock to Italy: A Growing Travel Trend
In 2025, the number of Korean visitors to Italy reached a record high of 1,055,418, surpassing the 2019 pre-pandemic figure of 1,006,700. This growth is not just numerical but also in terms of seasonality and destination variety. While traditional favorites like Rome, Venice, and Florence remain popular, there's an increasing trend towards exploring lesser-known areas such as alpine villages and southern towns. The Italian National Tourist Board (ENIT) highlighted this trend by hosting 'Workshop Italia 2026' in Seoul on September 22, where they introduced ten local tourism companies. 💬 Which Italian city do you think should be the next must-visit spot for Korean travelers?
Park Bo-gum Leads 100 Foreigners on Sound Journey
Park Bo-gum starred in a unique travel experience where he led 100 foreign tourists on a 'sound journey' through Korea. This initiative, organized by the Korea Tourism Organization, aimed to showcase the country's rich cultural heritage and natural landscapes through audio guides. Participants experienced various locations, from historical sites to scenic spots, immersing themselves in Korea's diverse sounds and stories. The project not only promoted tourism but also offered a fresh perspective on travel experiences, emphasizing the importance of soundscapes in enhancing one's understanding of a destination. 💬 Which concept photo is your favorite?
Park Bo-gum Leads Sound Journey for 100 Foreign Visitors at Changgyeonggung
K-pop star Park Bo-gum is leading a unique cultural experience for 100 foreign visitors at Changgyeonggung Palace in Seoul. The event, titled 'Sound Journey,' aims to introduce the rich sounds of Korea through guided tours and performances. Participants will have the opportunity to explore the historical palace while enjoying traditional music and storytelling. This initiative not only highlights Korea's cultural heritage but also promotes tourism by showcasing lesser-known aspects of Korean culture. 💬 Which concept photo is your favorite?
K-Culture Tourism Evolves in Busan
A pilot program for a stay-and-learn K-culture campus has been introduced in Busan. From October 19 to 23, Kebridge International will host the 'First Global Youth Hallyu Forum' and the 'K-Experience Village (KEV) Pilot Program' at Arpina in Haean-dong. This event aims to test a new model of stay-and-learn tourism and education for foreigners interested in K-culture. Kebridge International plans to develop this into a long-term project, combining international forums with stay-and-learn campuses to establish Busan as a hub for Hallyu education, tourism, and conventions. 💬 Which concept photo is your favorite?
Flood of Japanese Tourists Head to Korea Despite Restrictions
A surge of Japanese tourists is flocking to South Korea despite strict travel advisories issued by their government. The move comes after a series of measures aimed at discouraging visits to the country. Despite these efforts, many Japanese citizens are choosing to spend their vacation in Korea, highlighting the enduring appeal of Korean tourism. This trend has sparked discussions about the impact on local businesses and the broader economy. 💬 Which concept photo is your favorite?
Korea Medical Tourism: 15M Visitors, Time for a Real Check-Up
Korea has welcomed over 15 million international visitors in recent years, making it a leading destination for medical tourism. However, the government is now focusing on enhancing the quality and reliability of services offered to these tourists. This move aims to ensure that visitors receive the best possible care and experience, addressing concerns such as language barriers, cultural differences, and the overall patient journey. The focus is on improving practical healthcare logistics, ensuring that medical facilities are well-equipped and staffed with multilingual professionals. Additionally, there is an emphasis on promoting transparency and trust between patients and healthcare providers, which will be crucial in maintaining Korea's reputation as a top destination for medical travel. 💬 What aspects of Korea's medical tourism do you think need improvement?
Hong Kong's Mid-Autumn K-Festival Week Draws 1 Million Visitors
The Hong Kong Korean Chamber of Commerce (Chairman Kim Joon-hoi) celebrated its 50th anniversary and the Mid-Autumn Festival by organizing a K-Festival week at Central Market, Hong Kong's largest traditional market. The event featured various cultural activities and attracted over one million visitors. This celebration not only showcased Korean culture but also promoted tourism in the area. The festival included traditional Korean food stalls, performances, and interactive exhibits, making it a highlight of the holiday season in Hong Kong. 💬 Which concept photo is your favorite?
