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Foreign Visitors to Top 20 Million in South Korea in 2025, Report Says

The Hyundai Research Institute finds that rising inbound travel will fuel a substantial uptick in consumer activity across South Korea.

Tourists from abroad, clad in traditional Korean costume, "hanbok," visit Gyeongbok Palace of the 1392-1910 Joseon Dynasty in Seoul on March 10, 2025. (Yonhap)
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Overview

  • A June 26 report from the Hyundai Research Institute forecasts over 20 million foreign tourists in South Korea in 2025.
  • That figure marks a sharp rise from last year’s estimated 16.37 million international arrivals.
  • Tourist spending is projected at $20.2 billion, underscoring a major revenue boost for the economy.
  • The estimated tourism receipts will represent 2.5% of South Korea’s total domestic spending in 2024.
  • Hotels, restaurants and retailers are expected to see heightened demand as the country prepares for the influx.