Russia became the leader in tourist flow to South Korea

South Korea opens the summer tourist season. The country predicts that the tourist flow from Russia this year will exceed the pre-pandemic year of 2019, Moscow office of the National Tourism Organization of Korea (NOTK) said.

"In 2019, more than 340 thousand Russians visited the country, but during the pandemic there was a significant decline due to the introduction of anti-COVID restrictions. Since 2022, when 55-60 thousand arrived, there has been a steady increase of the number of tourists from Russia to Korea. Now, we are returning to pre-pandemic levels. According to forecasts for 2023, the figures will be even higher than in 2019," the ministry said.

As the NOTK noted, Russians actively visit South Korea even during the low tourist season. So, from January to April 2023, Russia ranks first in terms of tourist flow among European countries.

In the summer, Russians are most often interested in beach and sightseeing holidays in Seoul, Busan, Gangwon Province and Jeju Island with many beaches.

The Korean authorities in October lifted all entry restrictions related to the coronavirus pandemic. Tourists do not need PCR tests and vaccination certificates. Before traveling to Korea, Russians need to obtain an electronic entry permit - K-ETA. The cost of K-ETA is 10 thousand Korean won (about $ 8 at the current exchange rate).

There are no direct flights to South Korea from Russia. Tourists can get there with a connection in the cities of China, in Tashkent or Bangkok.