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

According to the culture ministry in South Korea, the number of foreign tourists arriving in the country has reached an estimated all-time annual record, the agency reported on Tuesday. Preliminary data from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism indicates that arrivals this year have already surpassed 18.91 million as of Monday, suggesting the total may have exceeded the previous annual record of 18.94 million set in 2021, according to a report published on Tuesday, with over two months remaining in the year.

The ministry anticipates approximately 1.94 million additional visitors in the upcoming month if the present trend persists, potentially breaking the 20 million mark for the first time in the third week of November. Culture, Sports and Tourism Minister Chae Hwi-young stated that surpassing the annual record more than two months ahead of schedule has placed the government's goal of 23 million foreign visitors by year-end within reach.

Visitor numbers from major markets, such as Chinese-speaking regions, Japan, Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Americas, have increased. Additionally, growth is expanding beyond Seoul, with foreign tourists accessing the country through regional airports and ports.