South Korea Experiences Explosive Growth in Vietnamese Tourism Fueled by Innovative Offerings Cultural Expansion and Strong Economic Ties Driving Record-Breaking Arrivals

Published on December 29, 2025

South Korea is witnessing a remarkable surge in Vietnamese tourism, with record-breaking arrivals driven by a combination of innovative travel offerings, the global influence of K-culture, and strengthened economic ties between the two nations. As Vietnamese visitors flock to experience South Korea’s diverse attractions, from cultural landmarks to specialized tourism products like sports, education, and medical tourism, the growing number of tourists is not just a reflection of increasing travel demand but also the result of strategic initiatives designed to enhance the visitor experience. With South Korea actively promoting its tourism sector through celebrity-led tours, travel incentives, and partnerships with local operators, this expansion signifies a significant shift towards more meaningful, long-term cultural and economic exchanges.

South Korea Sees Remarkable Growth in Vietnamese Visitors Reflecting Expanding Ties and Tourism Innovation

By the end of November 2025, South Korea had welcomed more than 508,000 visitors from Vietnam, marking a significant 6.9% increase compared to the previous year. This surge in tourism reflects the growing appeal of South Korea as a destination for Vietnamese travelers. Projections for the full year suggest that the total number of Vietnamese visitors will reach approximately 550,000, which would represent a 9% rise compared to 2024. This growth is seen as a key step towards regaining the levels of tourism seen before the pandemic.

A standout segment contributing to this expansion is the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. In particular, the Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO) has played a pivotal role in supporting 345 Vietnamese companies in organizing MICE events in South Korea. These efforts have resulted in the arrival of 41,166 visitors, a 12.7% year-on-year growth. The thriving MICE sector has become a cornerstone of the tourism exchange, underscoring the business potential between the two countries.

The surge in Vietnamese tourists visiting South Korea is also closely linked to the rise of K-culture and the introduction of a variety of new tourism products. In 2025, South Korea launched 376 new tourism offerings aimed at enhancing the visitor experience. These products span a range of sectors, including sports tourism, education and medical tourism, as well as local explorations and deeper experiences at emerging destinations throughout the country.

K-culture, which includes K-pop, Korean dramas, and cuisine, has become a powerful tool in attracting travelers from Vietnam and beyond. The rise of K-culture-themed tours, celebrity-led experiences, and cultural exchanges has further cemented South Korea’s role as a cultural hub for Vietnamese tourists. The influx of Vietnamese visitors is a testament to the global influence of Korean entertainment, which has made a lasting impact on youth culture in Vietnam and the wider Southeast Asian region.

South Korea continues to be one of Vietnam’s largest tourism markets, with strong bilateral ties in the tourism sector. The future looks promising for this relationship, with a focus on strengthening these connections through new initiatives. Among these efforts is the development and promotion of fresh tourism products that showcase both traditional and modern South Korean experiences. The government is working closely with tour operators to design new and exciting itineraries for Vietnamese travelers, while also hosting workshops aimed at fostering business connections between tourism stakeholders from both countries.

To bolster these initiatives, South Korea is introducing a range of marketing strategies to target independent travelers. One such strategy includes K-culture familiarization tours, where Vietnamese visitors can meet celebrities and experience iconic Korean cultural landmarks. The introduction of integrated travel cards offering exclusive incentives and discounts for Vietnamese visitors is another important development. These cards will not only streamline the travel experience but also provide greater access to South Korea’s popular attractions at discounted rates.

In addition, the establishment of a Korea Tourism Promotion Centre in Vietnam will further enhance marketing efforts. This center is expected to serve as a key resource for potential travelers, offering detailed information on visa processes, flight options, and tailored travel experiences. South Korea is also providing promotional packages that include discounted or complimentary airline tickets, making travel more affordable for Vietnamese tourists.

Beauty treatments and golf tourism have been particularly attractive to Vietnamese visitors. South Korea is renowned for its advanced beauty and wellness industry, and many visitors flock to the country to take advantage of world-class skincare treatments and cosmetic surgery services. Similarly, golf tourism has seen an uptick, with many Vietnamese tourists traveling to South Korea to experience its premium golf courses. The country’s modern facilities, combined with its natural beauty, create an ideal environment for golf enthusiasts.

In terms of accessibility, South Korea’s tourism sector has made significant strides in making travel more affordable. Over seven airlines currently operate flights between Vietnam and South Korea, offering a variety of options for travelers. Airfares, which are sometimes as low as VND 5 million (roughly USD 200), make the trip more affordable compared to previous years. This accessibility has contributed to the growing number of Vietnamese visitors, with many taking advantage of budget-friendly airfare options to explore South Korea’s diverse attractions.

As Vietnam continues to be one of South Korea’s most important sources of tourism, both countries are looking ahead to expand their collaboration in the tourism sector. Efforts to promote new tourism products, enhance marketing strategies, and improve travel accessibility are expected to drive even more visitors in the coming years. The tourism ties between Vietnam and South Korea have proven to be resilient, and with continuous innovation and strategic partnerships, both countries stand to benefit from this growing exchange of travelers.

South Korea is seeing a significant rise in Vietnamese tourists, driven by innovative offerings, K-culture influence, and stronger economic ties. Strategic initiatives like celebrity-led tours and tailored travel products are fueling this growth, enhancing the cultural and economic exchange between the two nations.

In conclusion, South Korea’s tourism sector is experiencing a period of robust growth, with Vietnamese travelers playing an important role in this expansion. With the support of strategic marketing, new tourism products, and improved accessibility, the future looks bright for further strengthening this dynamic relationship.