South Korea's Tourism Boom Draws Millions

South Korea's tourism surges past pre-COVID peaks, welcoming 1.26 million foreign visitors in January 2026 alone, a 14% rise over 2019 levels led by China, Japan, Taiwan, and the U.S. The country hit a record 18.9 million arrivals in 2025, surpassing pandemic highs, with leaders now targeting 30 million by 2028 through visa relaxations, regional airport upgrades, and K-culture promotions.