After years of silence, tourism industry growth has entered the spotlight in South Korea’s presidential race. Both leading candidates have now positioned tourism as central to national recovery and global influence. Their proposals reflect a growing consensus: tourism can fuel jobs, revenue, and Korea’s soft power. For years, experts warned that ignoring tourism would cost Korea valuable global standing. Now, tourism industry growth is no longer just an afterthought.
Kim Moon-soo, from the conservative People Power Party, pledged a sweeping strategy to boost tourism industry growth. On Tuesday, he announced plans to create five K-pop cities that cater to global fans. He also proposed eco-belts along the DMZ and rivers to promote peace tourism. Moreover, Kim aims to launch cycling tours and eco-trails linking geoparks in the region. His vision also includes a cultural school tourism belt along Korea’s west coast.
Kim emphasized the need for infrastructure, promising large concert halls in five major cities. He plans to improve accommodations and transit systems for easier tourist access. Additionally, he offered rent support for young people living in key tourist areas. To encourage entrepreneurship, he will launch a national tourism startup competition. Each of these policies supports sustained tourism industry growth across Korea.
Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party took a different route but echoed the same urgency. He promotes the “workcation” model, which blends remote work with extended travel. Lee also pledged vacation subsidies to encourage domestic tourism and ease costs. His platform focuses on revitalizing local economies by turning cities into travel hubs. Though his plan remains less detailed, it shows clear intent to support tourism industry growth.
The Korea Association of Travel Agents recently urged both candidates to elevate tourism policy. The group called for funding on par with the manufacturing sector and long-term investment plans. Korea’s tourism budget remains small, despite cultural exports gaining global popularity. Currently, tourism contributes only 3.8 percent to Korea’s GDP, well below the global average. Experts agree: tourism industry growth must become a top national priority.
