Interest in traveling to Jeju Island, a popular South Korean tourist destination, hit an all-time low in July. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
JEJU, Aug. 29 (Korea Bizwire) – A recent survey has revealed that interest in traveling to Jeju Island, a popular South Korean tourist destination, hit an all-time low in July, marking a significant shift in domestic tourism trends.
Consumer Insight, a travel research firm, reported on August 28 that only 29% of respondents expressed interest in visiting Jeju in July, the lowest figure since the survey began in 2016. This continues a downward trend that saw interest drop from 41% in April to 32% in May.
The island’s share of planned trips has also plummeted. Starting at 13% in January, it declined to 12% in April, 9% in May, 10% in June, and back to 9% in July, averaging just 12% for the year — another record low.
In contrast, Gangwon Province, a mountainous region on the mainland known for its beaches and ski resorts, has seen a surge in popularity. Since March, when Jeju’s decline began, Gangwon’s share of planned trips has risen to 27%, significantly widening the gap between the two destinations.
“Jeju and Gangwon often compete for the same type of traveler,” a spokesperson from Consumer Insight explained. “It’s not an exaggeration to say that the eyes of travelers turning away from Jeju are now looking towards Gangwon.”
This shift could have significant implications for Jeju’s tourism-dependent economy. The island, famous for its beaches, volcanic landscapes, and unique culture, has long been a cornerstone of South Korea’s domestic tourism industry.
While the reasons for this decline were not explicitly stated in the survey, factors such as overcrowding, rising prices, and a desire for new experiences may be contributing to Jeju’s waning appeal.
The trend also reflects broader changes in South Korean travel preferences, with many tourists seemingly opting for mainland destinations over the island getaway.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
