Seoul:The annual number of foreign visitors to South Korea has surpassed 20 million for the first time this year, as announced by the culture ministry on Thursday. This milestone marks a significant achievement for the country, highlighting its growing appeal as a global tourist destination.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim Dae-hyun, the second vice minister of culture, sports and tourism, personally welcomed the 20 millionth visitor at Incheon International Airport, the main entry point to Seoul. This achievement comes 14 years after South Korea first exceeded 10 million annual foreign arrivals in 2012.
The record number of visitors has been attributed to several factors, including the worldwide popularity of South Korean pop culture and the nation's hospitality toward foreign tourists. Culture, Sports and Tourism Minister Chae Hwi-young emphasized that this milestone represents a "starting point" for South Korea's ambition to become a leading tourism powerhouse. Minister Chae also announced plans to enhance the country's capacity to attract 30 million foreign visitors annually, aiming eventually for 40 million visitors.
In a related event, a group of tourists from Indonesia was photographed in front of the Gwanghwamun gate in Seoul on November 12, 2026, capturing a moment that signifies South Korea's growing importance as a preferred travel destination.