Foreign tourist arrivals in Korea estimated to have set annual record early

Foreign tourist arrivals in South Korea have reportedly reached an all-time annual record, according to the country's culture ministry. Preliminary data indicates that 18.91 million visitors have entered the nation by the end of October, potentially surpassing the previous record of 18.94 million set in 2022, as more than two months of the year remain.

The ministry anticipates a further influx of approximately 1.94 million tourists in November, should the current trajectory persist, potentially pushing the annual total above 20 million for the first time in November. Culture, Sports, and Tourism Minister Chae Hwi-young expressed optimism, stating that surpassing the annual record nearly two months early has brought the government's ambitious end-of-year target of 23 million foreign visitors within reach.

Visitor numbers have surged across key markets, including Chinese-speaking regions, Japan, Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Growth is also being observed beyond Seoul, with an increasing number of foreign tourists arriving via regional airports and ports.