Tourism in South Korea Soars with Growing Interest in History, Culture, and Modern Shopping

Published on November 30, 2025

The tourism sector in South Korea has experienced the growing presence of foreign visitors for the country’s lifestyle shops, lifestyle museums and cultural attractions. South Korea’s tourism sector’s development and international focus results from the impact of the recent APEC summit held in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang, which attracted world diplomacy for the first time and the tourism potential of South Korea.

The growing interest of tourists in the cultural experiences of visiting museums, the shopping for Korean products, and the cultural experience of Korea’s lifestyle draws even more tourists to Korea. Because the Gyeongju APEC summit was attended by world-famous diplomats, leaders of the world, APEC summit to Gyeongju was an opportunity to show the world the history of South Korea, the modern lifestyle of South Korea, the world’s famous shops and the rich lifestyle of South Korea, which has attracted many tourists.

The APEC summit in Gyeongju, held last month, with its worldwide interest for the first time, and for the first time interest for Gyeongju in its UNESCO-listed Historic Areas of Gyeongju, has boosted its cultural and tourism sectors. Also, the event has its own diplomacy, which can provide straight testimony to the attractions of South Korea that is in perfect harmony with the modern world.

The increase in visits to lifestyle shops and museums across South Korea are case study in correlation and causation. Myeongdong and Gangnam are some of the most in-demand tourist destinations in South Korea. When it comes to South Korea’s shopping landscape, it is unparalleled in diversity and vibrance. Tourists in South Korea search for lifestyle shops that provide a contemporary and traditional embroidery of South Korea’s unique and regional fabric. These shops serve as great destinations for tourists to buy traditional regional souvenirs. South Korea is internationally recognised for the modern and innovative regional fabric it markets.

The increase in attendance for museums and cultural centers is also positive. There are diverse ranges of tourists at museums in South Korea, such as the National Museum of Korea, the Leeum Samsung Museum of Art, and the Gyeongju National Museum. These facilities are invaluable for educating visitors about various traditional crafts, modern art, and the history of Korea. This diversity enriches the cultural heritage of Korea.

Seoul’s Impact on International Tourists

Seoul is the capital and the largest recipient of international visitors and tourists in South Korea. International visitors and tourists travel to Seoul to enjoy the unique and diverse mix of modern and traditional. International tourists are drawn to Myeongdong- beauty products and cosmetics as well as modern fashion apparel and accessories. Myeongdong is a popular tourist destination for its modern shopping and entertainment.

Seoul is home to Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village, which contains several historic structures representative of various architectural styles, as well as Changdeokgung Palace, and is a cultural hub for those interested in the artistic and architectural history of Korea. Visitors can enjoy and deepen their knowledge about South Korea’s culture, history, and modern advancements by visiting one of Seoul’s many museums. Some of these museums include the Korean War Memorial and the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.

Part of the reason for the explosion and interest in tourism in South Korea is the diverse and eclectic food which can be sampled in many of South Korea’s local markets including Gwangjang Market and Namdaemun Market. Many visitors are drawn to South Korea to enjoy a culinary and sensory feast and to sample traditional and authentic Korean dishes that include bibimbap, kimchi, tteokbokki, and sundubu-jjigae.

Cultural Tourism in Gyeongju and Other Regions

Seoul is the primary destination most people travel to in South Korea; however, the provincial cities are starting to gain popularity. Due to the international attention from the APEC summit, Gyeongju is one of the cities that has benefitted the most – the city is known as the “museum without walls” as it hosts numerous historical sites such as ancient tombs, temples, and Bulguksa Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Gyeongju National Museum exhibits the region’s Silla Dynasty relics and teaches tourists the art and culture of the region. Other sites that offer a view of Korea’s ancient history are the ancient Cheomseongdae Observatory and Anapji Pond.

As Gyeongju continues to gain popularity, the other regional cities are also growing in popularity. Busan is known for its beaches and seafood, and is home to Gamcheon Culture Village, which has colorful alleyways and street art for tourists to wander. Jeonju, which is the birthplace of bibimbap, has a traditional Hanok Village, food experiences, and is also known for its growing popularity.

Tourism Infrastructure and Support

As a result of increased demand for tourism, South Korea is investing in new tourism infrastructure. This is inclusive of the enhanced transport infrastructure, KTX, the high-speed rail system, and the ease of access to and from major cities – Seoul, Busan and Gyeongju. Moreover, the government has instigated promotional campaigns for South Korea to be a tourist attraction for all seasons throughout the year to engage tourists from winter sports in PyeongChang to spring in Jinhae for the blooming of cherry trees.

South Korea’s tourism services have also adapted to the increased digital travel. Unique travel apps and websites provide easy access to transport, accommodation, attractions, venues, and meal options. It has never been simpler to plan a trip as well as share the travel experience with others.

Conclusion

South Korea’s tourism sector is highly developed and expanding due to increasing overall and international interest from people and nations such as China, Japan, and European nations. The unique combination of cultural depth, modern conveniences, and beautiful scenery makes South Korea one of the most interesting countries to travel to, and the tourism industry is growing due to factors such as the APEC summit as well as the increased focus on lifestyle stores and lifestyle museums. The tourism industry is expected to grow at a rapid rate as South Korea will become the ideal location to travel for culture, history, and modern experiences.