Press release
1.46 million tourists visited South Korea in September 2019
Dubai, 18 November 2019: Wego, the largest online travel marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), collaborates with Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) to boost visitor’s numbers from the GCC to Korea.
This country allows leisure travellers to soak into the scenic sights of high mountains and clear waters. A perfect East-Asian getaway where the man-made marvels beautifully blend with the splendid tranquility of nature.
In recent days, South Korea has witnessed a growing number of cultural, entertainment and recreational facilities to appeal to every type of traveller. Encouraging more tourists from the MENA region, GCC travellers get visa-free arrival ranging from 30 to 90 days. Initiatives from KTO have helped to attract around 12.41 million tourists in 2018, with an increased number of tourists by 15.1% in 2019.
Commenting on the partnership, Kang Kyoosang, Regional Director of Korea National Tourism Organization, said: “Arrivals from the Gulf have been witnessing a steady growth year on year. Korea received 25129 Gulf nationals until the end of August 2019, an increase of 21.54% compared to the same period in 2018. One of the key reasons for arrivals to remain steady is our consistent and aggressive marketing efforts in going across all platforms and reaching out to our consumers. With the increased frequency of flight services and luxurious cruise ships, the influx of travelers from the Gulf and the Middle East has continued to surge.”
Boasting of its 14 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, tourists are exploring the lesser-travelled islands of the Korean Archipelago like Jeju and Busan, the second-largest city in south Korea. Offering a picturesque 360-degree view of the endless coastline, Manjanggul Cave is one of the famous UNESCO heritage sites luring countless tourists to this volcanic island.
Mamoun Hmedan, Managing Director, MENA and India, Wego, said: “Korea is a perfect East-Asian getaway where the man-made marvels beautifully blend with the 5000-year old well-preserved culture and the splendid tranquility of nature. Searches on our platform to this hidden gem have increased by 16 % YoY. We are excited to join hands with KTO to boost visitors’ numbers and expand the country’s reach.”
Emerging as a new hotspot among young travelers for clicking Instagrammable pictures is the Oryukdo Skywalk, a glass bridge protruding from the cliff overlooking the panoramic vistas of the sea. Also, visiting the traditional bathhouse called “jjimjilbang” translated to “the heated room” is a must-to-do thing in the itinerary to unveil the ancient secrets of Korean beauty regimes. Keeping up with the trend, travelers are booking traditional Korean Hanok guesthouses online to experience the Korean hospitality.
It is also evident that the KTO is constantly making efforts to raise awareness about the importance of Muslim friendly travel market in South Korea, as this segment is emerging to be one of the fastest-growing travel segments in recent years.
Halal restaurant week is an annual event held every September to October to promote Muslim friendly restaurants for tourists from all over the world. Over 150 Muslim friendly restaurants participate from all across the country to offer Korean halal food and discount coupons.