Korean tourists dominate Japan’s travel boom for third straight year
Koreans have remained the largest group of foreign visitors to Japan for three years running. In 2024, they accounted for nearly a quarter of all arrivals, with 8.82 million trips. The trend reflects broader travel habits, as Korean tourists increasingly favour nearby Asian destinations for short, convenient getaways.
Japan welcomed 36.87 million foreign visitors in 2024, with Koreans making up 23.9% of the total. Among them, Osaka proved the most popular city, attracting 30.7% of Korean travellers. Tokyo, Fukuoka, and Sapporo also ranked highly, alongside growing interest in Vietnamese and Southeast Asian spots.
Data from Agoda’s 2025 search trends shows Korean tourists prioritising destinations with short flight times and visa-free access. In Asia, Nha Trang (Vietnam) and Bali (Indonesia) ranked fourth and fifth, while Da Nang (Vietnam) and Cebu (Philippines) saw significant Korean visitor shares—40.6% and 54.1% respectively. Phu Quoc, another Vietnamese hotspot, reported a 63% increase in Korean arrivals, helped by its 30-day visa exemption. Affordability, frequent flights, and family-friendly amenities have driven the surge. Many Koreans now combine cultural experiences with beach relaxation, opting for quick trips over longer holidays.
The dominance of Korean travellers in Japan and across Asia highlights a shift toward accessible, short-haul tourism. Visa policies, direct flights, and cost-effective options continue to shape their choices. With destinations like Phu Quoc and Cebu seeing rapid growth, the trend shows no signs of slowing.
