Travel and tourism industry is gaining momentum as COVID-19 restrictions ease. As the aftereffects of COVID-19 gradually weaken, the travel and tourism industry is experiencing a resurgence. Many barriers to overseas travel have been relaxed, leading to a surge in demand for travel among people whose desires had been suppressed during the pandemic. Among the countries that are witnessing a boom in tourism, Korea stands out, with Korean tourists traveling abroad in record numbers.

     According to data published by VisitKorea, Korean tourists are the most frequent visitors to many countries worldwide. Most of the popular destinations for Korean tourists are located in Asia, with Japan being the most visited country. The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) has also confirmed that Korean visitors are the highest among foreign travelers. The proximity of Japan and the availability of cheap airfare make it an ideal destination for short trips.

     Southeast Asia is also a popular vacation spot for Korean tourists. Vietnam has become increasingly popular due to its low prices and warm weather. Thailand, which has removed all COVID-19 regulations related to sightseeing, is also one of the most visited countries by Koreans. This year, the number of Korean visitors to Thailand is expected to increase significantly.

     One of the reasons why Korean tourists have become the most active consumers in the travel and tourism industry is the development of low-cost carriers (LCC). LCCs have made air travel affordable for many Koreans, enabling them to take trips abroad at a lower cost. Many tourism businesses are preparing to cater to this increase in demand.

     The rise of English language learning services and online translation tools has also contributed to the increase in overseas travel among Koreans. This trend is expected to continue in the coming years as more Koreans seek to explore the world and experience new cultures.