Nice Wall of China / Yonhap
The „Nihao China! Journey With out a Visa“ occasion showcased the rising tourism pattern fueled by visa-free journey for Koreans visiting China. Over 100 tourism and diplomatic leaders gathered in Seoul on Jan. 10 for the occasion, which aimed to advertise visa-free entry to China.
Sponsored by the Chinese language Embassy in Seoul and co-hosted by the China Nationwide Vacationer Workplace in Seoul and the Korea-China Cultural Friendship Affiliation, the occasion highlighted rising tourism ties following China’s introduction of visa exemptions for South Korean vacationers.
“China and Korea are shut neighbors with a historical past of pleasant exchanges,” Chinese language Deputy Ambassador Fang Kun mentioned. He emphasised the importance of tourism in fostering cultural connections, noting that “mutual visits are on the rise,” and predicting additional progress in journey because of insurance policies like visa exemptions and expanded direct flight routes.
Korea can be contemplating visa-free entry for Chinese language group vacationers, based on Rebuilding Korea Occasion lawmaker Rep. Kim Joon-hyung, who described tourism as a “cultural bridge” between the 2 nations. “These measures are essential catalysts for financial and cultural alternate,” Kim mentioned.
Latest knowledge underscores the impression of those insurance policies. Zhong Hongnuo, consul basic of the Chinese language Embassy in Seoul, revealed that China noticed a greater than 150 p.c improve in Korean vacationer arrivals in December in comparison with the identical interval final 12 months, with reservations for Shanghai journeys surging by 180 p.c.
The occasion featured shows from key gamers within the tourism trade who shared insights into locations like Qingdao and Guangzhou. Airline representatives highlighted elevated flight capacities, whereas trade leaders mentioned the rising demand for journey merchandise catering to Koreans.
“This 12 months, the Yr of the Snake, we anticipate a good sooner tempo of progress in Chinese language tourism,” mentioned an official from Shandong Airways, reflecting optimism shared by the tourism sector.
To additional solidify collaboration, Korea’s Hwa-in Communications and China’s China Unicom signed a memorandum of understanding to boost technical assist for tourism initiatives. Main airways and monetary establishments additionally showcased journey packages and promotional campaigns aimed toward boosting tourism.
The “Nihao! China” sequence, overseen by China’s Ministry of Tradition and Tourism, seeks to leverage the visa-free coverage to place China as a high vacation spot for Korean vacationers, highlighting its proximity and cultural attract.
