Tourism in South Korea Set to Flourish with Increased Government Investment

Published on December 4, 2025

South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has approved a substantial increase in the 2026 tourism and culture budget, allocating KRW 7.86 trillion to the sector. This represents an 11.2% increase over the current year and underscores the country’s commitment to promoting culture and tourism as key drivers of its economy. The expanded budget will play a pivotal role in positioning South Korea as a global leader in both creative industries and international travel.

The increased funding highlights South Korea’s strategy to not only boost the domestic tourism market but also strengthen its global competitiveness by expanding its cultural content and tourism offerings. With tourism continuing to recover globally, the country’s focus on enriching its cultural experiences and travel infrastructure aims to draw more international visitors, improve its image abroad, and promote its unique cultural heritage to a global audience.

Focusing on Culture and Tourism as Key Economic Sectors

The expanded tourism budget is part of South Korea’s long-term vision to enhance its cultural diplomacy and become a global leader in the creative sectors. The government has recognized that tourism and culture are intertwined, as cultural content—such as K-pop, K-dramas, and traditional Korean art forms—has been a significant part of attracting international visitors. The growing global popularity of Korean culture is a driving force behind the increased tourism interest, particularly from countries in Asia, Europe, and North America.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism aims to support this growth by investing in key initiatives designed to enhance the tourism experience in South Korea. These initiatives include developing new cultural attractions, improving accessibility to major historical sites, and increasing the promotion of local festivals and traditional performances.

The expansion of cultural tourism will be supported by the development of new immersive experiences for tourists. This includes the creation of interactive Korean cultural experiences, such as traditional tea ceremonies, martial arts performances, and hands-on crafts workshops. By focusing on such cultural offerings, South Korea aims to diversify its tourism products and appeal to a wider range of travelers seeking authentic and unique experiences.

Tourism Growth and Strategic Investments

The increase in the tourism budget will allow South Korea to enhance its tourism infrastructure, including the development of smart tourism technology, transportation systems, and visitor services. The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) will play a key role in executing these plans, working with local governments and tourism stakeholders to ensure that the increased budget is used to improve the quality of services for both domestic and international tourists.

The Korean government also plans to invest in marketing campaigns to attract high-value international tourists. These campaigns will target emerging markets and strengthen South Korea’s position in established markets such as China, Japan, and the United States. By focusing on attracting affluent travelers, South Korea aims to increase tourist spending and extend the duration of stays, which will boost revenue for local businesses.

Enhancing South Korea’s Global Competitiveness

South Korea’s investment in cultural tourism aligns with its broader goal of increasing its global competitiveness. The tourism sector is expected to play a critical role in the country’s post-pandemic recovery, driving economic growth and creating new job opportunities. The government’s efforts to attract international tourists also complement its ongoing work in expanding cultural exports, including K-pop, K-dramas, K-beauty, and Korean gastronomy.

One of the primary goals of the increased budget is to strengthen South Korea’s position as a global cultural destination. In addition to promoting traditional sites such as Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul and the Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju, the government is focusing on supporting the Korean Wave (Hallyu). This global cultural phenomenon has significantly raised the profile of South Korea, especially among younger generations, and has contributed to the rise of Korean pop culture tourism.

Expanding Digital and Smart Tourism Initiatives

With the rise of digital tourism and smart tourism experiences, South Korea is embracing technology to enhance visitor experiences and improve service efficiency. The increased budget will allow for the implementation of contactless services, such as virtual tours, QR code-based guides, and mobile apps that provide real-time information and personalized itineraries. These innovations are particularly important as the world continues to embrace post-pandemic travel, with tourists seeking safer and more efficient ways to explore destinations.

The government also plans to invest in sustainable tourism initiatives, ensuring that the country’s growth in tourism does not come at the cost of its environment. Efforts will include eco-friendly accommodations, green transportation options, and conservation programs aimed at protecting South Korea’s natural resources.

A Focus on International Events and Festivals

To further boost tourism, South Korea plans to increase the number of international events and festivals taking place throughout the year. These events will include cultural festivals, music and film festivals, and international sporting events, drawing tourists who are interested in unique cultural offerings. With its emphasis on cultural tourism, South Korea aims to provide visitors with diverse and exciting experiences that showcase both traditional and modern aspects of Korean life.

Conclusion: South Korea’s Tourism Vision for 2026 and Beyond

South Korea’s decision to significantly increase its tourism budget for 2026 reflects a strategic commitment to the growth of its tourism industry and cultural diplomacy. The expanded budget will support the development of cultural attractions, improve tourism infrastructure, and boost marketing efforts to attract more international visitors. With a focus on sustainability, digital innovation, and cultural experiences, South Korea is poised to remain a top global tourism destination in the years to come.

As the country continues to recover from the pandemic and position itself for future growth, its tourism industry is expected to be a key driver of the economy, offering both economic benefits and a platform for showcasing the richness and diversity of Korean culture.