Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Qingdao, Hangzhou, Guangzhou and More Drive Jeju International Airport to Record-Breaking Nearly Three Million International Passengers in 2025

Published on December 3, 2025

Jeju International Airport has achieved a remarkable milestone in 2025, with international passenger numbers soaring past 2.8 million, thanks to strong demand from major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and others. This surge is driven by Jeju’s growing popularity as a travel destination, with an expanding network of international routes and frequent flights connecting the island to key cities across Asia. The airport’s strategic position as a gateway to South Korea, coupled with its attractive offerings of scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and world-class hospitality, has fueled this unprecedented rise in international traffic. With projections to exceed 3 million passengers by year-end, Jeju’s global appeal continues to reach new heights.

Jeju International Airport Breaks Passenger Record with Over 2.8 Million International Travelers in 2025

Jeju International Airport, one of South Korea’s busiest travel hubs, has shattered its previous passenger record, with over 2.8 million international travelers arriving this year. This remarkable achievement not only highlights the growing global appeal of Jeju Island but also solidifies the airport’s position as a key player in the region’s air travel sector.

According to the Korea Airports Corporation (KAC) on December 3, 2025, Jeju Airport recorded 2,802,095 international passengers, surpassing its 2016 record of 2.74 million. This milestone marks a significant jump in international traffic, underlining the island’s rising status as a desirable destination for global travelers. With the year still in progress, KAC anticipates that the airport will reach 3 million international passengers by December 31, further showcasing Jeju’s increasing importance in the world of travel.

A Hub of Connectivity: Routes and Airline Services

Jeju Airport’s success is deeply tied to its expansive flight network, which now operates 1,380 monthly flights across 18 international routes, connecting the island to five countries. The airport’s connectivity has been steadily growing, with a wide range of flights that cater to both regional and international visitors. Serving as a gateway for both leisure and business travelers, Jeju has become an attractive stopover or destination for passengers worldwide.

The bulk of the international flights are concentrated on the Jeju-China routes, which dominate the airport’s traffic. With 1,208 flights per month, these routes account for a significant portion of Jeju’s international connectivity. They link Jeju with key cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Guangzhou, reflecting the high demand for travel between South Korea and China. Airlines like Chunqiu, Dongbang, Gilsang, Air China, and Beijing Capital Airlines are responsible for servicing these routes, offering passengers frequent and convenient connections to one of Jeju’s most vital international markets.

In addition to China, Jeju Airport has established strong connections with Taiwan, further expanding its global reach. The Jeju-Taiwan routes include flights to major Taiwanese cities such as Kaohsiung and Taichung, with a total of 114 flights per month. These services are particularly popular among travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences, making Jeju a go-to destination for visitors from Taiwan.

Expanding Global Presence: Southeast Asia and Beyond

While Jeju’s main international connections are concentrated in Asia, the airport has also made notable strides in connecting with other parts of the world. Among the growing destinations are flights to Singapore and Mongolia. Jeju-Singapore services are seeing consistent demand, adding to the island’s allure for Southeast Asian travelers seeking a gateway to South Korea.

The Jeju-Mongolia route, though operating on a less regular basis, reflects the airport’s ambition to expand beyond its traditional markets and tap into emerging regions. These routes are crucial in enhancing Jeju’s stature as a versatile, global airport, able to serve a diverse range of travelers.

Additionally, Jeju Airport operates flights to Vietnam, albeit irregularly. These flights provide crucial connections for business and leisure travelers between South Korea and Vietnam, a rapidly growing market for both inbound and outbound tourism. As Jeju continues to invest in expanding its route network, it’s expected that even more international connections will emerge, further cementing the airport’s position as a central hub in East Asia.

Growing Demand and Future Projections

The rising passenger numbers at Jeju Airport are part of a broader trend of increasing demand for international travel in South Korea. Jeju, known for its lush landscapes, scenic beaches, and cultural attractions, continues to draw a diverse range of international visitors. This increase in passenger traffic reflects not only Jeju’s strong tourism appeal but also the global recovery of the travel industry post-pandemic.

KAC’s optimistic projections indicate that the airport’s international passenger numbers will continue to climb. With a strong mix of short-haul and long-haul flights, Jeju is well-positioned to attract more travelers in the coming years. The rise in tourism to the island coincides with the continued development of South Korea’s tourism infrastructure, making it a prime destination for tourists from around the world.

A Gateway for Future Tourism Growth

Jeju’s success story is far from over. With an eye on the future, the airport is expected to continue innovating in its services, expanding its network of international flights, and enhancing the passenger experience. As the island looks to solidify its position as a global travel hub, Jeju International Airport remains a vital part of South Korea’s tourism strategy.

The projected growth of international passenger numbers, coupled with the airport’s ongoing investments in infrastructure, are likely to spur further interest in the region. As Jeju Airport reaches new heights in passenger volume, it will continue to serve as a key gateway for travelers seeking the unique beauty, culture, and hospitality that the island has to offer.

Jeju International Airport has broken records in 2025, surpassing 2.8 million international passengers, driven by high demand from cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. This surge reflects Jeju’s growing appeal as a top global destination with an expanding network of international routes.

In conclusion, Jeju International Airport’s milestone of surpassing 2.8 million international passengers marks a pivotal moment in the island’s tourism and aviation history. With expanding international routes, increased connectivity, and a growing reputation as a world-class destination, Jeju is well on its way to becoming a top travel hub in East Asia. As the airport continues to soar, Jeju’s place on the global tourism map is destined to rise even higher.