Thursday, June 26, 2025
In 2025, China has officially surpassed Japan, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand to become the leading travel destination for South Koreans. This shift is largely fueled by the growing popularity of impromptu weekend getaways, driven by China’s visa-free policy, close proximity, and the rise of quick, flexible travel options. South Koreans, increasingly seeking short and spontaneous trips, are drawn to China’s convenience, improved travel infrastructure, and seamless mobile payment systems, making it an attractive option for quick escapes. As weekend travel gains momentum, China’s appeal continues to grow, reshaping regional tourism dynamics and marking a significant change in travel preferences among South Koreans.
The most notable aspect of this trend is the rise in solo travelers and small groups opting for these quick trips. Over 80 percent of the bookings for such weekend excursions were made by individuals or pairs, a shift from the traditional family vacation model. This growing demand for impromptu getaways is indicative of changing travel preferences, with people increasingly seeking to balance their work and leisure time without committing to extended vacations.

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Research by Consumer Insight, a local market analysis firm, has corroborated these findings, designating China as the number one overseas destination for South Koreans, followed by Japan, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand. The rapid popularity of what are now called “night goblin” getaways—short, spontaneous trips designed around long weekends—has gained remarkable traction, signaling a departure from conventional travel patterns and the growing appeal of quick, accessible escapes.
Several factors contribute to China’s rise to the top of the list of preferred destinations. One of the most significant changes has been the implementation of China’s visa-free policy for South Korean nationals. Introduced in late 2024, this policy allows South Koreans to travel to China for up to 15 days without the need for a visa, making it far easier for both business travelers and those seeking a brief getaway to visit China. With the policy lowering the barriers to entry, China’s proximity and the convenience of last-minute travel have become major selling points for those looking to escape for a weekend.

Additionally, China’s growing adoption of advanced travel technology has played a pivotal role in its rise as a top destination. The widespread use of mobile payment systems, transportation applications, and enhanced navigation tools has significantly simplified the travel experience. These advancements have made travel within China more seamless, particularly for independent travelers who value convenience and autonomy.
Japan had long held the title of the most visited overseas destination for South Koreans due to its close proximity, rich cultural experiences, and favorable exchange rates. In 2024, South Koreans accounted for the largest number of international visitors to Japan, contributing to a total of 8.83 million South Korean arrivals out of 36.9 million total international visitors. However, with China’s proximity and evolving infrastructure, more South Koreans are now choosing to explore China as an alternative destination for their travels.
Shanghai, China’s financial and cultural hub, continues to be a major attraction for South Korean visitors, drawing those interested in luxury experiences, historical landmarks, and modern attractions. But it’s not just Shanghai that’s experiencing this surge in popularity. Lesser-known cities like Qingdao and Yantai, located on China’s Shandong Peninsula, are also becoming key destinations for South Koreans seeking something different from the traditional hotspots.
Qingdao, for instance, has seen a sharp increase in bookings from South Korea, with the city alone accounting for over 30 percent of all Chinese city bookings made by South Koreans in the first few months of 2025. Yantai, which ranks fourth in popularity among South Korean travelers, is close behind, capturing 8.5 percent of bookings. Both cities are just a short 90-minute flight from Seoul, making them highly attractive for those looking to get away for the weekend. Qingdao is well-known for attractions like the Tsingtao Beer Museum, Laoshan Mountain, and Polar Ocean World, while Yantai is famous for sites such as the Penglai Pavilion, scenic island cruises, and its burgeoning wine culture.
This growing trend of short-haul, weekend travel is reflected in the broader tourism statistics as well. In 2024, South Korea saw an impressive 157 percent increase in the number of visitors traveling to China. The surge has continued into 2025, with bookings for the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday showing a staggering 452 percent increase over the previous year.
Experts predict that this pattern of growth will continue, thanks to a combination of favorable visa policies, technological advances, more flight options, and an evolving desire for flexible, short-term travel experiences. As China continues to enhance its travel infrastructure and policies, it is well-positioned to maintain its status as a top destination for South Korean travelers, offering a wealth of experiences for those seeking a quick escape.
In conclusion, China’s rise as the leading destination for South Korean travelers marks a transformative shift in regional tourism. With its convenient access, evolving infrastructure, and visa-free travel policies, China is on track to remain the preferred choice for spontaneous trips, surpassing Japan as the go-to destination for Koreans looking to make the most of their weekend getaways. This shift in travel preferences highlights a broader change in how South Koreans are approaching their vacations—opting for flexibility, convenience, and the allure of a new destination that offers both modern convenience and rich cultural experiences.

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Tags: Asia, china, Destination News, japan, Philippines, Travel Destination News, Travel News, Vietnam

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