In July, the number of foreign tourists visiting Seoul reached 1.36 million, marking the highest record ever. This increase is attributed to the rise of multinational tourists, driven by the popularity of Netflix's animation "K-Pop Demon Hunters (Kedeheon)."
The Seoul Metropolitan Government reported on the 2nd that the number of foreign tourists visiting Seoul in July reached 1.36 million, an increase of 23.1% from the previous month. This is also 18.2% higher compared to July 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Regarding the increase in foreign tourists, the Seoul Metropolitan Government noted that the growing preference for various experiential contents favored by the MZ generation of tourists, along with digital-centric transportation and accommodation infrastructure, and the charm of a city blending tradition and modernity, played significant roles.
Since last year, the Seoul Metropolitan Government has been installing multinational artificial intelligence (AI) guide boards at locations where Korean dramas and animations were filmed. Notable examples include "Our Old Stone Museum" from the drama "Tears of the Queen," "Deoksugung Stone Wall Path" from "The Youngest Son of a Conglomerate," and "DDP" from "Vincenzo." Since August, a special program for "Kedeheon" (making a god key ring, learning the choreography of Kedeheon, etc.) has also been operating at the Seoul Culture Lounge (11th floor, Samil Building, 85 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno District).
In addition, the Seoul Metropolitan Government is creating urban playgrounds reflecting the latest trends throughout the city and operating various experiential contents. In the first half of this year, the Seoul Spring Festival and the Relaxed Han River Festival were held. Looking ahead to autumn, events such as the Seoul Barbecue Festival (October 25-26), Seoul Gourmet Week (October 27-November 2), and the Seoul Winter Festival (December) are also in preparation.
Additionally, programs that allow participants to experience the daily lives of Koreans have been set up. These programs introduce the harmony of traditional culture and modern attraction, as well as famous spots known for food and entertainment, collectively referred to as the "100 Hot Places of Seoul Living."
As a result, the number of foreign tourists visiting Seoul from January to July this year also recorded the highest ever for the same period. A total of 8.28 million, which is a 15.9% increase compared to the same period last year. Compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic, it is also 5.5% higher.
By nationality, Singaporeans accounted for the largest share at 64.4%. This was followed by Taiwan (44%), the United States (40.6%), and Indonesia (34.3%).
Gu Jong-won, director of the Seoul Tourism and Sports Bureau, said, "We will continue to develop differentiated tourism contents and innovative services to achieve our goal of attracting 30 million foreign tourists early and to elevate Seoul as the best tourist city."