Seoul’s Tourism Revival: Foreign Visitors Return to pre-Pandemic Levels
in a remarkable recovery,Seoul welcomed 12.12 million foreign tourists in 2024, marking a return to 95% of its pre-pandemic peak in 2019. This resurgence is attributed to the city’s innovative tourism offerings, such as the Urban Climbing Center and Outdoor Library, which have captivated international visitors.
According to the Seoul Metropolitan Government,the number of foreign tourists visiting the city plummeted to 2.19 million in 2022 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. though, the figures rebounded to 8.03 million in 2023 and surged to 12.12 million by November 2024.“We have recovered to 95% compared to 12.74 million in 2019, which was the best ever,” the government stated.
The revival is largely credited to Seoul’s unique tourism content. Programs like the Bukhansan yeongbong Maple Road Course Experience have drawn meaningful attention, offering visitors immersive experiences in the city’s natural landscapes. “The increase in foreign tourists is that the revelation of tourism contents in Seoul was effective,” officials noted.
To support this growth, the Seoul Tourism Foundation has established three Seoul city Tourism Centers in Bukhansan, Bukaksan, and Gwanak. these centers, which began operations in september 2023, provide convenient access to information and resources for tourists exploring the city.
| Year | Foreign Tourists (millions) | Recovery Rate |
|———-|———————————-|——————-|
| 2019 | 12.74 | 100% |
| 2022 | 2.19 | 17% |
| 2023 | 8.03 | 63% |
| 2024 | 12.12 | 95% |
Seoul’s nightscape, particularly the iconic Yeouido skyline, continues to be a major draw for visitors.the city’s blend of modern attractions and cultural experiences has solidified its position as a top global destination.
As Seoul continues to innovate and expand its tourism offerings, the future looks bright for the city’s travel industry. for those planning their next adventure, Seoul’s unique blend of tradition and modernity awaits.
Explore more about Seoul’s tourism initiatives and plan your visit today!
Seoul’s K-Literature and Outdoor Libraries Emerge as New Tourist Hotspots
Seoul,a city known for its vibrant culture and past landmarks,is now gaining recognition as a hub for literary tourism. With the rise of K-Literature,inspired by the Nobel Prize for literature nominee han Kang,the city has transformed into a K Literature Holy Land,attracting foreign tourists with its unique blend of literature and leisure.
The Rise of K-Literature in Seoul
The global spotlight on Korean literature has turned iconic locations like Seoul Plaza, Gwanghwamun Book Street, and Cheonggyecheon Stream into must-visit destinations for book lovers. These sites, collectively dubbed the K Literature Holy Land, have become a testament to Seoul’s commitment to promoting its literary heritage.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government has further enhanced this experience by showcasing over 700 translated works of Korean literature at the Seoul Outdoor Library. These translations, donated by the Korea Literature Translation Institute, offer foreign visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the rich narratives of Korean authors.
Outdoor Libraries: A New Tourist Course
The Seoul Outdoor Library, located in the heart of Gwanghwamun, has become a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. according to recent data, 10% of all visitors are foreigners, many of whom incorporate the library into their travel itineraries. The serene environment, coupled with the opportunity to read books while taking a break, has made it a unique tourist attraction.
“Some foreigners were able to take out outdoor libraries as a tourist course and recommend that they read books while resting for a while,” the Seoul Metropolitan Government noted.
Seoul’s Vision for Tourism
In September 2023, the city unveiled its enterprising ‘3, 3, 7, 7 Seoul Tourism Future Vision’, aiming to achieve:
- 70% of foreign tourists
- 3 million won per person in spending
- 7 days of stay
- 70% re-visit rate
As the number of foreign tourists continues to rise, expectations for achieving these goals are growing. The city plans to foster unique tourism content, including high-priced programs and personalized experiences, to align with global tourism trends.“This is an crucial year for the ‘3,3,7,and 7 tourism era’,” said Gu Jong-won,Director of Tourism and Sports in Seoul. “We will continue to discover and promote Seoul’s unique tourism offerings to attract more visitors.”
Key Highlights of Seoul’s Literary Tourism
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| K Literature Holy land | Includes Seoul Plaza,Gwanghwamun Book Street,and Cheonggyecheon Stream |
| Seoul Outdoor Library | Features over 700 translated Korean literature works |
| Tourist Engagement | 10% of visitors are foreigners; outdoor libraries integrated into itineraries|
| Future Vision | Aims for 70% foreign tourists,3M won spending,7-day stays,70% re-visits |
A Call to explore Seoul’s Literary Side
Seoul’s transformation into a literary destination is a testament to its ability to blend tradition with innovation. Whether you’re a book enthusiast or a curious traveler, the K Literature Holy Land and Seoul Outdoor Library offer a unique way to experience the city’s cultural depth.
Plan your visit today and discover why Seoul is becoming a global hub for literary tourism.
For more information on Seoul’s tourism initiatives, visit the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s official website.
