2025 Sees Rapid Return to Overseas Travel for South Koreans, Japan and Vietnam Lead Destinations
Travel from South Korea to international locations surged throughout 2025, based on data issued by the Korea Tourism Organization, Incheon International Airport Corporation, and digital travel platform Agoda. The number of South Korean travelers flying abroad between January and October reached over 24.3 million, a 3.2 percent increase compared to the previous year. The volume of international flights operated also grew by the same margin, reflecting renewed vigor in global travel.
Agoda, which tracks accommodation searches worldwide, reported a 15 percent rise in international travel interest among South Korean users in 2025 relative to 2024. Its rankings reveal that short-haul destinations remain top favorites. Japanese cities dominated the top three spots, with Tokyo securing first place, followed by Fukuoka and Osaka. The Japan National Tourism Organization noted that 7.66 million South Koreans visited Japan during the first ten months of 2025, up by 6.4 percent year over year.
Other countries favored by South Korean travelers include Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, and Taiwan. Vietnam stood out with several coastal and island destinations featuring prominently. Nha Trang, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc—all in Vietnam—ranked within the top ten, with Phu Quoc showing the highest growth in interest at 63 percent. Known as the "Maldives of Vietnam," Phu Quoc offers visa-free entry for up to 30 days and boasts scenic beaches like Sao Beach and Kem Beach, along with attractions such as Phu Quoc National Park. This combination keeps it drawing more South Korean visitors.
Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, along with Bali in Indonesia and Taipei in Taiwan, also made the list, highlighting the preference for easily accessible travel destinations within Asia.
Looking ahead to 2026, Agoda’s Travel Outlook anticipates that international travel demand among South Koreans will remain robust. Nearly 39 percent of respondents from South Korea said they plan to travel mostly overseas during the year, a figure well above the Asian regional average of 24 percent.
Jay Lee, Regional Director for North Asia at Agoda, commented on these trends. He pointed out that despite challenges like higher currency exchange rates, South Korean travelers continue to seek overseas experiences, whether for cultural engagement or relaxation. Agoda plans to support this demand by offering a broad selection of flight options, accommodations, and activities to facilitate travel planning.
Travelers preparing trips in 2026 can explore Agoda’s extensive listings, which include over six million properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities, all bookable together on Agoda’s website and mobile app.
This ongoing recovery and growth in South Korean outbound travel signal a return of confidence and desire for global exploration following pandemic-related restrictions in previous years. The preference for nearby destinations with rich cultural or leisure appeal remains clear as boundaries reopen and travelers resume international journeys.
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