CreatripTeam

Rising geopolitical tensions and high costs are reshaping Korean travel patterns. Concerns about the US (including arrests of Korean workers), Japan’s new electronic entry fees, instability in parts of Africa and Latin America, and safety worries in some Indochina countries have reduced travel to those destinations. Instead, many Koreans are turning to perceived safer, lower-cost inland regions like Eastern Europe (Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria), Central Asia (Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan), and Mongolia—places the Korean Foreign Ministry classifies as low-risk (white list). Popular Southeast Asian spots like Vietnam remain strong, and Thailand shows signs of recovery after diplomatic talks. Economic factors (high prices in the US and Western Europe) and preference for friendlier, affordable cities (e.g., Portland, Seattle, Salt Lake City, Los Angeles) also influence choices. The article suggests a broader shift toward continental destinations over maritime powers, as travelers favor perceived safety and value. (몽탄신도시: nickname for Mongolia highlighting its Korea-friendly infrastructure)