South Korea Tourism Market Size, Share, and COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Tourism Type (Medical, Sports, Cultural, Culinary, Wellness, Educational, and Others), By Tourist Type (Domestic, International), and South Korea Tourism Market Insights, Industry Trend, Forecasts to 2035

South Korea Tourism Market Insights Forecasts to 2035

• The South Korea Tourism Market Size was estimated at USD 40.4 Million in 2024
• The Market Size is Expected to Grow at a CAGR of around 8.49% from 2025 to 2035
• The South Korea Tourism Market Size is Expected to Reach USD 99.0 Million by 2035

According to a Research Report Published by Spherical Insights & Consulting, The South Korea Tourism Market Size is anticipated to Reach USD 99.0 Million by 2035, Growing at a CAGR of 8.49% from 2025 to 2035. The market is being supported by the growing number of cultural sites and the increasing popularity of K-pop dramas.

Market Overview

The South Korea Tourism Market Size refers to the travel industry, which includes both domestic and international travel, is referred to as the South Korea tourism market. Services like lodging, food and drink, entertainment, cultural events, medical and wellness travel, and travel planning platforms are all included. Additionally, the vibrant cityscape and cultural attractions of the Seoul Capital Area attract tourists. honam is renowned for its natural landscapes, while yeongnam offers historical sites and scenic beauty. Furthermore, Hoseo draws tourists with its historical sites and rustic charm, but other areas offer a variety of regional attractions. Moreover, in the upcoming years, market expansion will be reinforced by promoting lesser-known destinations and making investments in regional tourism infrastructure to produce a more varied and well-rounded travel experience.

Report Coverage

This research report categorizes the market for the South Korea tourism market based on various segments and regions and forecasts revenue growth and analyses trends in each submarket. The report analyses the key growth drivers, opportunities, and challenges influencing the South Korea tourism market. Recent market developments and competitive strategies such as expansion, product launch, and development, partnership, merger, and acquisition have been included to draw the competitive landscape in the market. The report strategically identifies and profiles the key market players and analyses their core competencies in each sub-segment of the South Korea tourism market.

Driving Factors

Government expenditures on improved transportation systems and new hotels increase South Koreas allure and accessibility, which speeds up market expansion. Additionally, strong culinary tourism programs in South Korea showcase the countrys unique and varied regional cuisine, drawing tourists from all over the world. By enhancing the nations standing as a top culinary destination, these initiatives raise interest and engagement among foreign tourists. The demand in the South Korean tourism market is directly driven by this increase in interest, which reflects the rising demand for distinctive culinary experiences.

Restraining Factors

South Koreas natural and cultural heritage sites are under stress given increased tourism, which has led to problems like ecosystem disruption, waste accumulation, and trail erosion. Stricter rules, like visitor caps, seasonal closures, and restricted zones, have been implemented by authorities to safeguard these areas. These measures may restrict public access, but they also contribute to maintaining the long-term environmental integrity.

Market Segmentation

The South Korea tourism market share is classified into tourism type and tourist type.

• The culinary segment held a significant share in 2024 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period.

The South Korea tourism market is segmented by tourism type into medical, sports, cultural, culinary, wellness, educational, and others. Among these, the culinary segment held a significant share in 2024 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period. This dominance is a result of the popularity of food-focused travel experiences, the global appeal of Korean food, and the incorporation of culinary tourism into more extensive cultural and entertainment offerings.

• The domestic segment held a significant share in 2024 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period.

The South Korea tourism market is segmented by tourist type into domestic and international. Among these, the domestic segment held a significant share in 2024 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period. As a result of effective transportation, a wide range of regional attractions, and robust government support for domestic travel, South Koreans regularly travel within the nation for leisure, wellness, cultural, and culinary experiences.

Competitive Analysis:

The report offers the appropriate analysis of the key organizations/companies involved within the South Korea tourism market along with a comparative evaluation primarily based on their product offering, business overviews, geographic presence, enterprise strategies, segment market share, and SWOT analysis. The report also provides an elaborative analysis focusing on the current news and developments of the companies, which includes product development, innovations, joint ventures, partnerships, mergers & acquisitions, strategic alliances, and others. This allows for the evaluation of the overall competition within the market.

List of Key Companies

• Korea Tourism Organization
• Hana Tour
• Lotte Tour
• MyRealTrip
• Waug
• Others

Recent Developments:

• In June 2024, South Korea launched the Moon of Seoul, a helium balloon at Yeouido Park, which offered views of the Hangang River and Seoul. This new attraction, with rides accommodating 30 passengers, was expected to boost tourism and drive market growth by providing a unique experience.

Key Target Audience

• Market Players
• Investors
• End-users
• Government Authorities 
• Consulting and Research Firm
• Venture capitalists
• Value-Added Resellers (VARs)

Market Segment

This study forecasts revenue at South Korea, regional, and country levels from 2020 to 2035. Spherical Insights has segmented the South Korea Tourism Market based on the below-mentioned segments:

South Korea Tourism Market, By Tourism Type

• Medical
• Sports
• Cultural
• Culinary
• Wellness
• Educational
• Others

South Korea Tourism Market, By Tourist Type

• Domestic
• International