China Shifts From Japan to South Korea, But Repeat Visits May Fall
Creatrip Team
2 months ago
As China-Japan tensions reduce Chinese travel to Japan, many tourists are choosing South Korea instead. November arrivals from China rose about 27% year-on-year after eased visa rules and favorable exchange rates, boosting both group and independent travel. However, experts warn this increases South Korea’s dependence on Chinese tourists (유커), risking big losses if relations sour—as seen after the 2016 THAAD dispute—and could worsen anti-Chinese sentiment at home, lowering repeat visitation. The industry urges diversifying source markets and fostering positive local attitudes toward Chinese visitors to sustain long-term tourism gains.
