Key Facts
• Travel demand in South Korea is gradually recovering after a period of stagnation.
• In H1 2025, international passengers at South Korean airports totaled 46.03 million, up 7.6% YoY.
• This figure surpassed the previous record of 45.56 million in H1 2019.
• China saw the largest growth in travelers, with 7.81 million visitors, up 1.52 million YoY.
• Visa exemption measures implemented in November 2024 contributed to this increase.
• Other destinations included Japan (13.43 million), the Americas (3.32 million), Europe (2.25 million), and the Middle East (530,000).
• Travel companies faced revenue declines in Q1 2025: Hana Tour (-8.14%), Modu Tour (-17.3%), Yellow Balloon (-18.08%).
• June 2025’s Consumer Spending Index (CSI) for travel rose to 99, up from 88 in January.
• Hana Tour’s Q2 2025 outbound travelers reached 860,000, a 9% YoY increase.
• May and June 2025 saw 14% and 3% YoY growth in outbound travelers, respectively.
• The “Golden Week” effect boosted demand during the typically slow Q2 period.
• Travel companies anticipate a stronger recovery in Q3 2025, driven by middle-aged package tour users.
Summary
South Korea’s travel industry is showing signs of recovery as international travel demand rebounds during the summer peak season. In the first half of 2025, international passenger numbers at South Korean airports reached a record 46.03 million, a 7.6% increase from the previous year. China led the growth, with 7.81 million travelers, supported by visa exemption measures introduced in late 2024. Other destinations, including Japan, the Americas, and Europe, also saw increased traffic. Despite a challenging start to 2025, with revenue declines for major travel companies like Hana Tour and Modu Tour, the industry is optimistic about a stronger recovery in Q3 2025. The “Golden Week” in May and June helped boost demand during the typically slow Q2 period. Consumer sentiment for travel spending has also improved, with the June 2025 CSI for travel rising to 99. Travel companies expect further growth, particularly among middle-aged package tour users, signaling a potential full recovery in the coming months.
