A recent survey conducted by the Federation of Korean Industries indicates a notable trend: South Koreans express less satisfaction with their own country’s travel offerings compared to international experiences, largely attributing this to the elevated expenses at local tourist hotspots. This polling of 1,000 adults, who’ve ventured both within South Korea and internationally during the last three years, sheds light on pivotal elements influencing travel choices and spending habits projected for 2025.
Domestic vs. International Travel Satisfaction
Domestic tourism received an average rating of 8.3 out of 10 in the survey, somewhat lagging behind the 8.7 score achieved by international travel. When participants were questioned about their dissatisfaction with domestic tourism, a significant 45.1% pinpointed the steep prices at tourist destinations as the main source of concern. Another 19.4% expressed a feeling that there was a shortage of unique regional attractions. The evaluation took into account 11 criteria, from accessibility and amenities to gastronomy, accommodation, cultural and historical sites, and even sporting activities. While domestic travel excelled in convenience factors—specifically, accessibility, services, and catering—international destinations generally earned higher marks across all remaining categories.
Travel Preferences and Budgets
Despite the comparatively lower satisfaction levels associated with domestic travel, a substantial 39% of those surveyed anticipate traveling within South Korea during 2025, marginally outstripping the 38.4% who plan to journey abroad. This inclination towards domestic travel often stems from the perception of reduced expenses, streamlined planning processes, shorter travel durations, and the elimination of language obstacles. A considerable 87.6% of survey participants intend to travel domestically this year, as opposed to 60.4% who have international trips on their agenda. It’s worth noting, however, that spending on international travel far surpasses domestic budgets. Travelers are estimating, on average, around €1,430 per trip abroad—nearly four times the €390 allocated for domestic excursions.
Implications for South Korea’s Tourism Sector
The survey findings bring a significant challenge for South Korea’s domestic tourism sector into sharp focus: pricey options and a perceived scarcity of distinctive regional draws are seemingly undermining enthusiasm. While certain convenience factors render domestic travel attractive, the magnetic pull of international destinations, equipped with their elevated cultural experiences, festivals, and recreational opportunities, is currently capturing significant interest and corresponding spending. To truly invigorate domestic tourism, key stakeholders might need to actively tackle the price-related concerns and earnestly invest in cultivating unique, regionally distinguished attractions—striving to compete more effectively with the enticing allure of international travel.
As South Koreans continue to prioritize travel throughout 2025, the dynamic equilibrium between domestic and international preferences is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the broader tourism landscape. Given the considerable interest in both categories, coupled with higher satisfaction and spending observed abroad, South Korea’s tourism industry is uniquely positioned to innovate and refine its domestic offerings, thereby securing a larger portion of traveler enthusiasm.