According to the government’s basic plan for boosting tourism announced December 18, the number of substitute holidays is set to increase, and tourist visas for foreign visitors will either become unnecessary or simplified. (Image: Yonhap)
SEOUL, Dec. 19 (Korea Bizwire) – According to the government’s basic plan for boosting tourism announced December 18, the number of substitute holidays is set to increase, and tourist visas for foreign visitors will either become unnecessary or simplified.
Currently, substitute holidays are only provided for Children’s Day, Chuseok and Lunar New Year. The government’s plan will result in regular lengthy periods of time off similar to the extra-long Chuseok holiday period this year.
Per the culture ministry, interest in tourism and leisure is growing as the public increasingly emphasizes quality of life.
Subsequently, the culture ministry has joined hands with Korail – the nation’s railroad operator – to introduce the “Travel Transport Pass”, a three to five-day unlimited rail pass that doubles as a rechargeable public transportation ticket.
Varying perks are offered depending on the age of the pass holder; seniors can take advantage of a travel companion matchmaking service plus trip consulting, while young adults are given discounts on entry fees to tourist attractions. Pass holders in lower income brackets likewise can enter attractions at a discount, but are also able to hop on city tour buses free of charge.
To help fund longer holidays, a trial program in which employees put up 50 percent, and the company and the government each pledge 25 percent of holiday funds will begin with 20,000 individuals starting next year.
Electronic visa issuance for citizens from Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines is currently under deliberation, while a visa exemption has been granted to individual Chinese tourists coming to South Korea via cruise ships. (Image: Yonhap)
Travel programs adapted for teenagers and seniors will be introduced going forward, and hundreds of accessible tourism areas — sites easily accessible by everyone — will be added by 2022.
For foreign nationals, visa application documents will be simplified for company employees traveling to South Korea on incentive packages and for select university students handpicked by South Korean diplomatic officials in the country. Visitors who have previously visited an OECD nation will be granted eligibility for multiple visas.
Electronic visa issuance for citizens from Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines is currently under deliberation, while a visa exemption has been granted to individual Chinese tourists coming to South Korea via cruise ships.
Promotional efforts marketing South Korea as a tourist destination are expected to gain steam across the board. From major markets (China and Japan) to growing (Indonesia and Vietnam) and small (India and Kazakhstan) ones, the government will mix and match approaches centered on Korean Wave cultural products, medical services and other key South Korean features.
To sustain increased tourism from sources both domestic and abroad, government investment will be poured into development of indigenous cultural resources like Dadohaehaesang National Park and Jangneung in Paju (a Joseon Dynasty royal tomb named a UNESCO World Heritage site).
In addition, destination management organizations will be established to promote cities with rich cultural heritage, like Namwon and its traditional performing arts scene.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
