Vietnam Emerges as Favorite Destination for Korean Tourists in 2023
In a surprising turn of events, Vietnam has become the preferred destination for Korean tourists in 2023, with a staggering increase in visitor numbers. According to the Republic of Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport, over 7.3 million Korean tourists visited Vietnam in the first 11 months of the year, marking a remarkable 220% rise compared to the same period in the previous year.
Among the popular destinations in Vietnam for Korean travelers are Phu Quoc, Da Lat, and Nha Trang, known for their affordable costs and diverse tourism activities. The Ministry reports that over 1 million Korean visitors chose to travel from Incheon to Nha Trang, a coastal resort city in Vietnam, surpassing the pre-pandemic numbers of 735,400 Korean visitors in 2019.
Another highlight is the significant increase in Korean tourists visiting Phu Quoc Island, often dubbed as Vietnam’s Jeju Island. The Incheon-Phu Quoc route witnessed nearly 300,000 Korean travelers in the first 11 months of the year, while more than 61,000 Korean tourists chose the Incheon-Da Lat route.
To meet the surging demand for travel to emerging destinations in Vietnam, both Korean and Vietnamese airlines have been quick to expand their flight networks. Recently, Jin Air from the Republic of Korea launched its Phu Quoc-Incheon flights, offering more travel options to Korean tourists. Vietnamese budget airline VietJet Air also introduced a new route connecting Busan to Phu Quoc Island, further bridging the gap between the two countries. In addition, Jeju Air has begun operating regular Icheon-Da Lat flights with the frequency of seven flights per week, becoming the first Korean domestic airline to provide this service to the famous resort city in Lam Dong province.
The increasing number of Korean tourists flocking to Vietnam reflects the growing interest and appreciation for the country’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and affordable travel options. The surge in flight routes and improved accessibility has undoubtedly contributed to this newfound popularity. Vietnam has managed to captivate the hearts of Korean travelers, offering them a truly unforgettable experience.
As the year comes to a close, it is evident that Vietnam has become a favorite destination for Korean tourists in 2023. The country’s allure lies not only in its affordable costs but also in its diverse range of activities and enchanting landscapes. With the continuous expansion of flight routes and efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure, Vietnam is poised to solidify its position as a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world, attracting countless more visitors in the years to come.
