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Tourism in South Korea refers to the tourist industry in the Republic of Korea. Domestic tourism is quite popular, and expanding, among Koreans, but the country attracts relatively few international tourists. Most non-Korean tourists come from China, Japan, Taiwan, or Hong Kong. The recent popularity of Korean popular culture in these countries has given international tourism a boost. Seoul is the principal tourist destination for non-Koreans.
Popular tourist destinations outside of Seoul include Seorak-san national park, the historic city of Gyeongju, and semi-tropical Jeju Island. Travel to North Korea is not normally possible except with special permission, but in recent years organised group tours have taken South Koreans to Kŭmgang-san mountain in the North.
International and domestic tourism
The majority of the South Korean tourist industry is supported by domestic tourism. Thanks to the country's extensive network of trains and buses, most of the country lies within a day's round trip of any major city.
International tourists come primarily from nearby countries in Asia. Japan, Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan together account for roughly 75% of the total number of international tourists. In addition, the Korean wave has brought increasing numbers of tourists from Southeast Asia.
International tourists typically enter the country through Incheon International Airport, near Seoul, which in 2006 was found to be the world's best airport. Some others enter through the country's other international ports and airports, particularly Busan.
Governmental support
Through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and its constituent Korea Tourism Organization, the South Korean government works actively to support tourism within South Korea. This is promoted so as to boost the local economy, reduce the drain of funds overseas, and to improve the country's international image.
Tourist attractions
South Korea's most famous historical tourist attractions include the ancient capitals of Seoul, Gyeongju and Buyeo. Most international tourists come to Seoul, to experience both the classical and modern aspects of Korean culture.
A number of natural landmarks are important tourist attractions. The biggest of these are the peaks of the Baekdudaegan, particularly Seorak-san and Jiri-san. In addition, the caves of Danyang and Samcheok, and beaches such as Haeundae and Mallipo are popular attractions.
Apart from Jeju, South Korea's many smaller islands also play an important role as tourist attractions. Excursion ferries are quite common along the south and west coasts, and also to Ulleung-do off the east coast. Political tourism to the disputed Liancourt Rocks (Dokdo islets) has grown in recent years.
Most local districts hold several annual festivals to bring in tourists from elsewhere in the country. Some famous examples include the Boryeong Mud Festival and the Cheongdo Bullfighting Festival.
Travel abroad
Since the economic boom of the 1980s, South Korean tourism to other countries has grown steadily. The majority of travelers visit the neighboring countries of China and Japan, but many go further afield; Southeast Asia, Oceania, Europe and North America are all popular destinations.
Inter-Korean tourism
Since the late 1990s, limited numbers of tourists from South Korea have been permitted to visit certain sites in North Korea. The most prominent example is the famed mountain of Kumgang-san, near the DMZ.
Events
Occasional large events have played an important role in raising South Korea's profile for international tourists. These include the 2002 World Cup, which was jointly hosted by Korea and Japan, the 2005 APEC conference, and the 1993 Taejon Expo.
Notes
References
- Korean Overseas Information Service (2004). Handbook of Korea 4th ed. Seoul: Hollym. ISBN 1-5659-1212-8.
See also
- KTO (Korea Tourism Organization)
- Korean culture
- Contemporary culture of South Korea
- Tourism in Gyeongju
- List of Korea-related topics
External links
- Tour2Korea, the Korea Tourism Organization’s website Template:En icon
- Ministry of Culture and Tourism Template:En icon
