Why are fewer Thais travelling to South Korea?

Bangkok — South Korea is losing popularity among Thai travelers as stricter immigration screening creates uncertainty about entry into the country. According to research by Bnomics, a Bangkok Bank research unit, Thai visitors dropped to 328,000 in 2025, a decline of 13.8% compared to the previous year and significantly below the 559,000 recorded in 2019, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite South Korea's continued appeal due to Korean food, culture, and K-pop, problems with illegal employment by some Thai nationals have led to stricter immigration measures. The uncertainty surrounding entry has become a significant cost for travelers, as they must purchase tickets, book accommodation, and arrange work leave before confirming their entry.

This uncertainty can deter travelers, particularly when alternative destinations offer easier or more predictable entry procedures. South Korea's decline stands in contrast to China's rapid rise as the top destination for Thai travelers, thanks to a permanent visa exemption agreement, extensive transportation infrastructure, value for money, and a wide range of tourist destinations.

The analysis suggests that removing travel barriers can attract tourists, while uncertainty at the border can have the opposite effect.