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South Korean Tourism Soars 36.9% Thanks to China’s Visa-Free Policies

2/1/2026

34 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

China’s visa-free policies led to a 36.9% increase in South Korean tourism in 2025.
About 3.16 million South Koreans traveled to China last year.
Shanghai experienced a 142.4% rise in visitors.
Travel agencies report growing demand for customized itineraries, especially among younger travelers.
Tensions between China and Japan have shifted preferences, benefiting Korean retailers as Chinese tourists flock to South Korea.

History

Historical Context

China's Open Door Policy, initiated in 1978, marked a pivotal shift in its economic strategy, fostering foreign investment and tourism. This policy led to a 36.9% increase in South Korean visitors, totaling 3.16 million in 2022. The evolving geopolitical landscape, particularly tensions with Japan, has redirected Chinese tourism to South Korea, highlighting a growing interdependence in regional tourism dynamics.

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Story summary

China’s visa-free policies led to a 36.9% increase in South Korean tourism in 2025.
About 3.16 million South Koreans traveled to China last year.
Shanghai experienced a 142.4% rise in visitors.
Travel agencies report growing demand for customized itineraries, especially among younger travelers.
Tensions between China and Japan have shifted preferences, benefiting Korean retailers as Chinese tourists flock to South Korea.

1 / 2