South Korea Shatters Tourism Records in 2025, Welcoming Almost Nineteen Million Visitors – A Booming Travel Industry Surpasses Pre-Covid Numbers

Published on December 23, 2025

South Korea has officially surpassed its pre-Covid tourism numbers with a historic achievement in 2025, welcoming 18.5 million inbound tourists by mid-December, the highest figure ever recorded. This milestone, set on December 21, marks a one million increase over the previous record of 17.5 million set in 2019, just before the pandemic brought the travel industry to a standstill. As the year nears its close, projections suggest that South Korea is poised to reach an astonishing 18.7 million visitors by December 31, cementing its status as a powerhouse in the global travel industry.

The Surge in Visitors: A New Era for Korean Tourism

South Korea’s tourism revival is a testament to the country’s resilience and the magnetic appeal of its K-culture phenomenon, which has captured the global imagination. The rise of K-pop, Korean dramas, fashion, and food has created a vibrant global interest, and the tourism industry has capitalised on this trend. According to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the country’s ability to blend traditional attractions with modern pop culture has resulted in a massive influx of international visitors, with an increasing number of people eager to experience the heart of Korean culture firsthand.

Tourism officials attribute the surge to active marketing strategies that have targeted tourists from diverse cultural backgrounds. For instance, cities like Busan and Daegu have become hot spots for Taiwanese tourists, with marketing campaigns focusing on leisure activities such as food and sports. Likewise, Japanese visitors, especially women in their 20s and 30s, have been attracted by tailored programs, while Chinese tourists have been drawn to group packages that cater to family-oriented travel experiences. Middle Eastern and Asian tourists have also been targeted through online collaborations, showcasing South Korea’s unique blend of culture and modernity.

Why 2025 is the Year of Record-Breaking Tourism for South Korea

South Korea’s tourism boom in 2025 is not just about K-culture. The country’s tourism sector has leveraged its world-class infrastructure, vibrant cities, and natural beauty to offer a variety of experiences that appeal to all types of travellers. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the serene beauty of Jeju Island, South Korea offers something for everyone. In Seoul, tourists can explore modern shopping districts like Myeongdong, visit historical landmarks such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, or enjoy unique experiences like ice skating at Seoul City Hall.

The government’s commitment to improving the travel experience has also played a key role in boosting the number of visitors. New shopping tourism events, like the iconic Korea Grand Sale, have drawn in foreign tourists looking to indulge in luxury shopping and entertainment. In addition, South Korea has expanded its tourism marketing to showcase food festivals, cosmetic clinics, and other leisure activities that resonate with visitors, especially from Southeast Asia.

K-Tourism: From K-pop to K-Dramas, How Pop Culture Drives Travel

One of the driving forces behind South Korea’s tourism success in 2025 has been the explosive rise of K-pop, K-drama, and K-beauty. The country has cleverly positioned itself as not just a place to visit, but a destination that offers immersive pop culture experiences. Global hits like BTS, Blackpink, and Squid Game have spurred tourists to visit places associated with their favourite shows and artists. Fans travel thousands of miles just to see the filming locations of their beloved dramas or visit the spots where their K-pop idols made their mark. The growing influence of South Korea’s entertainment industry continues to fuel inbound tourism, drawing millions of global fans who want to experience the country behind their favourite songs, films, and series.

The government has capitalised on this trend by collaborating with online agencies to promote K-culture, which has effectively expanded South Korea’s appeal to regions like the Middle East and Southeast Asia. By tapping into digital platforms and social media, the country has also attracted younger generations who are more connected than ever, ensuring that the love for Korean culture spreads worldwide.

Government Recognition and Celebration of Achievements

The incredible tourism achievement was celebrated at Incheon International Airport, where the 18.5 millionth visitor, Sharmaine Lee from Singapore, was warmly welcomed. During the celebration, the Minister of Culture, Kim Min-seok, praised the efforts of the tourism industry, recognising the contributions of those who have worked tirelessly to bring South Korea’s tourism sector to new heights. A special event titled “K-Tourism, Embracing the World” was held to honour 23 individuals and five companies who have played pivotal roles in attracting international visitors and increasing foreign currency revenue.

Prime Minister Kim Min-seok also commended the tourism market for its resilience, stating that South Korea’s tourism sector has now entered a new phase of growth. With the country aiming to achieve 30 million annual visitors by 2030, the government is set on continuing this upward trajectory by refining its tourism offerings and deepening its cultural appeal to an even wider international audience.

South Korea’s Vision for the Future of Tourism

Looking ahead, South Korea’s government is committed to sustaining this growth while also diversifying the tourism experience. With an eye on global trends, South Korea plans to continue using its pop culture, natural attractions, and high-tech experiences to attract more international visitors. As South Korea gears up for an even bigger tourism boom in the coming years, the government’s vision for tourism includes deeper collaborations with local businesses, further integration of K-culture, and an ongoing focus on creating a welcoming environment for tourists from all corners of the globe.

As Prime Minister Kim declared, “We must continue this growth trajectory while also adding a layer of depth to tourism.” The country’s ambitions to become a leading global tourism destination are well within reach, and with the 2026 Korea Grand Sale and other events just around the corner, South Korea is set to remain a top destination for travellers worldwide.