South Korea records record growth in tourism with in November

03-01-25

In November 2024, South Korea experienced a remarkable increase in international tourist arrivals, reaching approximately 1.36 million visitors. This increase represents a 22% increase over the same period last year and is equivalent to 93% of the tourist volume recorded in November 2019, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Japan led the figures with around 340,000 tourists, marking the highest monthly number of Japanese visitors so far this year. It was followed by China with 300,000 visitors, Taiwan with 120,000 and the United States with 110,000 tourists.

While the current figures are encouraging, they still fall short of pre-pandemic levels. In November 2019, the number of Japanese visitors was 31% higher than that recorded this year, reflecting a strong historical relationship in terms of Japan-Korea travel. On the other hand, tourists from China have reached 58% of pre-pandemic numbers, indicating a gradual recovery to previous travel levels.

From January through November 2024, South Korea has received approximately 15.1 million international visitors, signaling a significant recovery in its tourism industry. In addition, about 2.39 million South Koreans traveled abroad in November, reflecting a 16% increase compared to the same month last year.