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2026 Virtuoso Symposium to be held in Seoul, South Korea from 15-19 April
Representative Image, View of downtown at Gangnam square, Seoul Korea Virtuoso, the global network specialising in luxury and experiential travel, has announced its 2026 Symposium will be held in Seoul, South Korea, from April 15-19, 2026. The prestigious event will attract approximately 400 of the industry’s most influential travel executives from over 35 countries for five days of strategic networking, business development and immersive exploration of one of Asia’s most exciting destinations. The announcement was made during the 2025 Virtuoso Symposium, which took place on May 13-17 aboard the Crystal Serenity. The exclusive, chartered voyage sailed from Barcelona to Marseille, providing a vibrant setting for impactful networking among global luxury travel leaders. Port calls included Barcelona, Spain for embarkation and a welcome reception, followed by visits to Portofino, Italy; Monaco; and Marseille, France for disembarkation. Executive Vice President David Kolner presented powerful booking trends, including a nearly 14 percent increase in first quarter sales over the previous year and a 26 percent rise in year-over-year cruise bookings. “Korea was selected as the host of next year’s Symposium due to our strong and growing partnership with the Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO), combined with increasing demand for luxury experiences in unique settings,” said Virtuoso’s Senior Vice President, Global Events Jennifer Campbell. “From the deeply rooted traditions of Seoul’s palaces to the innovation in its design, wellness and technology sectors, Korea represents the future of luxury travel – one that blends meaning, beauty and human connection. Korea’s unique appeal, cultural richness and diverse range of experiences make it essential for our members and partners to explore and understand all that Korea has to offer.” “The 2026 Virtuoso Symposium presents a defining opportunity to elevate Korea’s brand as a premier luxury destination on the global stage,” said Hee-jin Cho, executive director of the Korea Tourism Organisation’s Americas Centre. “By showcasing Korea’s unique blend of timeless tradition and modern sophistication to the world’s most influential travel leaders, we aim to deepen global appreciation for the country’s exceptional offerings in culture, wellness, cuisine and innovation.” Held annually in a different country, Virtuoso’s Symposium is more than a conference – it is a powerful catalyst for tourism growth. Destinations that have hosted past Symposiums and other Virtuoso events, such as Slovenia, saw remarkable results. In fact, following Virtuoso’s 2024 Chairman’s Event in Slovenia, the country experienced a 473 percent increase in sales from Virtuoso bookings for summer 2025, underscoring the network’s unparalleled influence in luxury tourism. Korea is reshaping the definition of luxury travel, blending comfort and exclusivity with cultural richness, creativity and meaning. In Seoul, ancient palaces stand alongside sleek skyscrapers, Michelin-starred cuisine meets vibrant street food and time-honoured crafts flourish amid cutting-edge fashion and design. What truly sets Korea apart is its emphasis on authentic, immersive experiences – think private temple stays, bespoke wellness rituals and hands-on workshops with master artisans. With world-class infrastructure, warm hospitality and impeccable service, Korea offers a luxury experience that is both refined and deeply personal.
Showcasing ‘South Korea’ to Qatari travellers
Busan landscape at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in Busan, South Korea. South Korea offers a unique cultural experience that inspires Qatari travellers seeking to explore a land where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modernity. As a country that deeply respects its past, iconic landmarks such as Gyeongbokgung Palace invite visitors to explore centuries-old royal architecture and understand the cultural significance behind its design. As informed by a news report in Qatar Tribune. Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) has announced the launch of its operations in the Qatari market through its representative office Claviger Middle East, aiming to raise awareness of South Korea as a prime travel destination for Qataris while highlighting its cultural, natural, and modern attractions. Korean tourism authorities have curated heritage programs to introduce Qatari travellers to Korea’s well-preserved traditions, including ancient palaces, traditional Hanok houses in Bukchon Hanok Village, and centuries-old temples. The Chuseok Harvest Festival, similar to Eid celebrations in Qatar, provides an ideal opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in local customs, such as performing traditional dances, tasting special festive dishes, and experiencing the warmth of Korean hospitality. During spring, South Korea is adorned with breathtaking cherry blossoms, painting the landscape in shades of pink—an enchanting sight that appeals to Qatari travelers in search of scenic beauty. Korean cuisine plays a central role in the country’s culture, offering iconic dishes such as Bibimbap, Bulgogi, and Kimchi, providing a perfect culinary experience for Qatari food enthusiasts. The emphasis on fresh and healthy ingredients will particularly appeal to travelers seeking nutritious yet delicious meals during their journeys. For business travelers, South Korea offers incentives for participation in MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events, featuring state-of-the-art convention centers, luxury business hotels, and tailored corporate incentives. The country’s advanced infrastructure, efficient public transportation, and exceptional hospitality services ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey for both leisure and business travelers alike. With its unique blend of history, culture, and nature, South Korea is an ideal destination for Qatari citizens eager to explore a place where the charm of the past meets the allure of modernity.
Airbus delivers South Korea’s first ACH160
Airbus recently delivered South Korea’s first ACH160 to business aviation operator K-Aviation. The new helicopter will join its fleet of business aircraft for private aviation services in Korea. The ACH160 is the premium version of the H160, which was certified by Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport in April 2024. Airbus Corporate Helicopters head Frederic Lemos said: “We thank K-Aviation’s vote of confidence in our latest offering as we herald a new chapter with the ACH160 in Korea. The next-generation ACH160 is known for its innovative design, performance and comfort superiority, setting new standards for corporate and private transportation. We look forward to more ACH160s flying in the country soon.” A technological marvel The H160 is one of the world’s most technologically advanced helicopters, designed and built to deliver the highest levels of operational safety while providing unmatched comfort for rotorcraft in its class. That said, the helicopter is capable of performing wide-ranging missions including law enforcement, offshore transportation, search and rescue, private and business aviation, as well as emergency medical services. Thanks to its manifold uses, the H160 has entered into service in Brazil, Canada, France, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, UK, US, as well as other European nations.
HK Express introduces two new routes to South Korea
Cathay Group’s low-cost carrier HK Express recently introduced two new routes connecting Hong Kong with South Korea. Announcing that “The K-Wave is back in Hong Kong,” HK Express launched a pair of fresh routes: one to Cheongju International Airport, and the other to Daegu International Airport. The Hong Kong-Cheongju route takes off on 5th June, while the Hong Kong-Daegu flights take off on 6th June. Airline executives explained that the new routes will enable passengers to discover South Korea’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, as well as iconic K-drama locations. The only one At present, HK Express is the only airline in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area offering direct flights to five major destinations in South Korea. Flights to Cheongju will be operated four times per week on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. On the other hand, flights from Hong Kong to Daegu will depart thrice weekly on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. It should be noted that the last flights from Hong Kong to Daegu were in 2019, when South Korea-based T’Way Air gradually reduced the number of weekly departures on the route throughout the year.
Agoda releases insights on South Korean women’s travel habits
As the world celebrated International Women's Day on Saturday, 8th March, online travel platform Agoda released its latest travel insights about South Korean women. According to findings, though both men and women plan to travel more in 2025, South Korean women are taking the lead when it comes to exploring new destinations and prioritizing shared adventures. Agoda country director for South Korea Lee Jun-hwan said: "Our survey reveals that South Korean women are leading changes in travel trends, particularly with their adventurous spirit and focus on meaningful journeys with family. Agoda remains committed to helping women in South Korea explore new destinations with great deals on accommodations, flights and activities." Destinations unknown Based on survey results, 67 percent of South Korean women expressed interest in visiting unfamiliar destinations. This figure is higher than the Asia-wide average of 60 percent, highlighting their strong desire to experience diverse cultures and landscapes. Also, South Korean women are venturing beyond familiar travel spots, embracing the joy of exploring new markets firsthand. Preferences are for shared trips and shorter journeys Likewise, 39 percent of Korean women preferred to travel with family, and 22 percent opted to travel with their partners. By creating unforgettable memories with loved ones, women in South Korea are adding deeper meaning to their journeys through shared experiences. f 52 percent of South Korean women showed a preference for short trips lasting two to five days. These brief escapes provide an opportunity to immerse themselves in culture and adventure while taking a refreshing break from their busy routines. Short trips have become a popular choice for balancing daily life with the thrill of new experiences.
South Korea records nearly 1.12 million arrivals in January
The state-run Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO) reports that nearly 1.12 million tourists arrived in South Korea in January 2025. Analysts point out that, as this is higher than the total reported in January 2024, the recent declaration of martial law and its subsequent fallout has not deterred foreign travellers from making their way to the country. January 2025 arrivals were up 27 percent from the 881,000 recorded in January 2024, putting South Korea on track towards its 20-million arrivals target for this year. Necessary measures Acting KTO president Seo Young-choong recently announced a new slew of measures meant to mitigate the impact of recent socio-political issues on the tourism sector. Seo declared that the KTO will front-load its 2025 budget to sustain the momentum for the tourism sector. That said, KTO plans to hold the bulk of its promotional roadshows in the first half of the year to drive what it calls an early travel boom. Also, given the popularity of streaming programmes like Culinary Class Wars, the KTO intends to promote South Korea as a hub for gastronomic tourism on top of ongoing promotions spotlighting the country as a destination for beauty products and aesthetic procedures. A KTO official remarked: “Korea has long been known for its variety of beauty treatments, and interest in its food has just gone global.” Issues to consider Despite this, the overall outlook for South Korean tourism in 2025 isn’t exactly optimistic. Seo pointed out that the ongoing trade conflict between China and the United States may have repercussions on the KTO’s plan to attract Chinese travellers. China is, at present, South Korea’s largest source market, with its nationals accounting for 364,000 of January’s arrivals total. It should be noted, however, that the total number of Chinese arrivals fell short of KTO’s projected target, mostly due to lower spending caused by a slowdown in the Chinese economy. To mitigate this, the KTO plans to expand its promotional endeavours to other countries, particularly Singapore and France which are potential targets for the Korean luxury travel sector.
South Korea implements e-Arrival Card for inbound passengers
South Korea introduces the e-Arrival card, allowing visitors to submit their entry information online in advance instead of the current paper arrival form system, which is planned to be unavailable after December 2025. Visitors can submit the declaration form up to three days before entering Korea (on the day of arrival, one day prior, or two days prior), based on Korean Standard Time. However, if they fail to enter Korea within 72 hours after the submission of their e-Arrival card, the card will no longer be valid. The form can be submitted through e-Arrival card website by entering the required information; the website supports both PC and mobile device. Visitors can download a PDF file of their submitted form, but it is not a requirement for entry inspection. For visitors under 14 years old, a family member or another person must complete the declaration form on their behalf. The form can also be submitted on behalf of adults and for multiple people at once. For more information on the new e-Arrival card system, please visit the official website.
South Korea’s LCCs rule the skies, exceeding Asia-Pacific Average
The seating proportion of low-cost carriers (LCCs) in South Korea’s aviation market has far surpassed the average of the Asia-Pacific region, according to an industry report, reflecting the popularity of budget airlines in the country. According to the analysis report by aviation market tracker Center for Aviation, LCCs accounted for 45.7 percent of systemwide seats in South Korea, significantly higher than the average 32.1 percent for the Asia-Pacific region as of the second week of January. The LCC seat proportion for international flights from South Korea came to 41.1 percent in 2024, up from 15.4 percent in 2015 and 36.5 percent in 2019, the report showed. Domestic flights have seen similar growth, with LCCs representing 58.5 percent of seats in 2024, compared with 54.3 percent in 2019. According to the report, Jeju Air, the country’s largest LCC, accounted for 11.1 percent of overall systemwide seats, ranking third only after the country’s two full-service flag carriers: Korean Air and Asiana Airlines. Source: The Korea Bizwire
South Korea: The Must-Visit Destination of 2025
South Korea is rapidly emerging as one of the most exciting tourist destinations for 2025, thanks to its unique blend of pop culture, tradition, and innovation. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the serene landscapes of its countryside, South Korea offers an irresistible mix of experiences that cater to a wide range of travellers. Here’s why South Korea is set to become the hotspot for tourists in 2025. A Cultural Powerhouse South Korea’s rise as a global cultural powerhouse has been driven by the incredible popularity of K-culture, which includes K-pop music, Korean TV series, fashion, and gastronomy. The country’s targeted marketing strategy aims to attract 30 million foreign tourists by 2027, with an intermediate target of 20 million tourists by 2024. This ambitious plan integrates culture, innovation, and technology, making South Korea a must-visit destination. Iconic Cultural Attractions The international success of Korean TV series and K-pop music has brought a wave of visitors eager to experience their favourite stars’ stomping grounds. Iconic places related to these cultural trends have become top tourist attractions, such as: Gangnam: Made famous by PSY’s “Gangnam Style,” this district is a symbol of modern Korean culture and a must-visit for tourists. Seoul’s K-pop District: Home to venues like SMTOWN Coex Artium and Big Hit Entertainment, where fans can explore the history of their favourite music groups and attend exclusive events. TV Series and Film Sets: Locations from popular dramas like “Crash Landing on You” and “Itaewon Class” have become tourist destinations, offering visitors the chance to relive scenes from their favourite shows. Unique Experiences South Korea offers a range of unique tourism experiences that go beyond pop culture. Here are some of the standout activities that are attracting visitors: Hanbok Experiences: Tourists can wear traditional Korean dress, hanbok, and stroll through historic palaces like Gyeongbokgung Palace, immersing themselves in Korean culture. Visits to Buddhist Temples: Spiritual retreats at Korean Buddhist temples offer deep meditation and insights into the country’s spiritual traditions. K-pop Theme Parks: Amusement parks like Lotte World and Everland host special events and performances related to Korean music groups, creating a unique experience for fans. Korean Cuisine: Known for its distinctive gastronomy, South Korea offers cooking classes where tourists can learn to prepare traditional dishes like bibimbap and kimchi. E-sports and Gaming: As a hub for the e-sports industry, South Korea attracts gaming enthusiasts who can visit e-sports centres, attend tournaments, and participate in exclusive events. Nature Hiking: Beyond its vibrant cities, South Korea boasts natural beauty with hiking opportunities in the Seoraksan and Bukhansan Mountains, and the UNESCO-protected Jeju Islands. Future Ambitions With a goal of reaching 30 million tourists by 2027, South Korea is set to continue its rise as a premier tourist destination. The country’s tourism ecosystem is expanding, supported by global marketing hubs and events that aim to reach new markets. This sustainable approach ensures that South Korea remains an attractive destination for travellers worldwide. Conclusion South Korea’s blend of pop culture, traditional experiences, and unique activities make it one of the most promising tourist destinations for 2025. As its tourism ecosystem grows and its cultural identity strengthens, South Korea is set to become a global hotspot for travellers seeking a diverse and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a fan of K-pop, a foodie, a nature lover, or a gaming enthusiast, South Korea offers something for everyone.
Shanghai is South Koreans’ top destination
Shanghai has become the top choice for South Korean tourists, thanks to China's 240-hour transit visa-free policy. According to Chinese online travel platform LY.com, South Korean tourist arrivals in Shanghai have surged since mid-December 2024. In addition, Huangpu district has emerged as the most popular area among South Korean visitors. Significant growth Shanghai's modern infrastructure and convenient transportation system further enhance the visitor experience. Weekly flights between South Korea and Shanghai are heavily booked, with Busan showing a 115.8 percent year-on-year growth, followed by Seoul and Jeju, from mid-December 2024 to early January 2025. Local hotels have also introduced packages specifically for South Korean tourists to lower costs and boost satisfaction. The hospitality data reflects this growing demand: from 21st December to 12th January, the average occupancy rate at the Mehood Elegant Hotel near the Bund topped 91 percent, while the Shanghai Elong Hotel reported that its rates were above 98 percent. A representative of the Elong attributed the rise to the favorable visa policies and the increasing international bookings. Favoured sights for travellers An LY.com research institute representative highlighted Huangpu district's cultural and historical appeal. Iconic attractions, such as the Yuyuan Garden and the Bund, continue to draw significant attention. The district also holds historical significance for South Korean visitors, as the former site of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea is located there. Pudong New Area is another hotspot, attracting visitors with its world-famous Shanghai Disney Resort and iconic Lujiazui skyline which features landmarks like the Shanghai World Financial Center, the Jin Mao Tower, the Shanghai Tower, and the Oriental Pearl Tower. Beyond sightseeing and shopping, South Korean tourists are immersing themselves in Shanghai's culture, exploring trendy spots like cafes, bars, and night markets. Many document their travel experiences on social media, showcasing tightly packed itineraries designed to maximize their time and budget.
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