South Koreans continue to favor the Philippines as manifested in the growing number of arrivals this year.
As of May 7, 2024, the Philippines welcomed 599,200 visitors from South Korea, representing a 26.86 percent share of the total foreign visitor arrivals.
“Last year alone, we welcomed over 1,450,000 Korean visitors who constituted over a quarter of our total international tourist arrivals.”
“Our bonds with [South Korea] have never been stronger, being our top source market for 2023. Last year alone, we welcomed over 1,450,000 Korean visitors who constituted over a quarter of our total international tourist arrivals,” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said.
In her visit to South Korea, Frasco gave a briefing to Korean media partners, and a listening tour with South Korean travel and tourism stakeholders at the Lotte Hotel Seoul.
“The purpose of our visit to Korea is to thank the Korean people for your love for the Philippines and to extend an invitation for more of our Korean brothers and sisters to partake of our world-renowned and award-winning beach and nature destinations, to witness the marvel of our diving and marine resources, to experience the beauty of our heritage and culture, to taste the flavors of Filipino food, and to enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people,” the tourism chief said.
“The DOT anticipates 1.8 million to 2 million visitor arrivals from the South Korean source market.”
This year, the tourism head shared, the DOT anticipates 1.8 million to 2 million visitor arrivals from the South Korean source market, as it is also moving to expand air connections with South Korea where at present, 12 airlines are serving key destinations in the Philippines, such as Bohol, Cebu, Clark, Kalibo, and Manila.
“A cornerstone of our tourism strategy is the strengthening of international relationships through effective co-marketing and joint promotional efforts. Our partnership with Korean travel and trade partners is integral to our promotional strategy, enhancing the Philippines’ visibility as a premier destination. Together with our partners, we are committed to creating memorable experiences that attract more Korean visitors each year,” she concluded.
Among other tourism offerings that are being availed of this specific foreign market apart from diving, include the Philippines’ sun and beach destinations, entertainment and leisure, golf, English as a second language (ESL), wellness and medical tourism, among others.
