Alan Walker in Seoul 2024: Get Tickets to Walkerworld Asia Tour Pt. II (Dec 14th, KINTEX)

Alan Walker in Seoul 2024: Get Tickets to Walkerworld Asia Tour Pt. II (Dec 14th, KINTEX)

Immerse Yourself in Alan Walker’s Walkerworld: Asia Tour Pt. II in Seoul (2024)

Get ready to experience the electrifying sounds of Alan Walker as his Walkerworld: Asia Tour Pt. II lands in Seoul this December! Prepare for an unforgettable night of music, energy, and immersive visuals.

Poster

Essential Event Details

  • πŸ—“οΈ Date: December 14, 2024
  • πŸ“ Location: KINTEX HALL 1, Gyeonggi Goyang-si Ilsanseo-gu Kintex-ro 217-60 (Daehwa-dong 2600)
  • ⌚ Time: 7:00 PM KST
  • πŸ‘€ Age Limit: 12+ (Under 12 will not be admitted)

Plan Your Trip

  • πŸ›οΈ Accommodation: Looking for a place to stay near the venue? Find the perfect hotel near KINTEX: Book Your Hotel
  • πŸ’‘ Light Stick: Enhance your concert experience with an official Alan Walker light stick: Get Your Light Stick

Ticket Information

Secure your spot to witness Alan Walker live! Tickets are available in the following categories:

  • VIP Seat (General): 154,000 KRW
  • R Seat (General): 143,000 KRW

Get Ready for an Epic Night!

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of Alan Walker’s Walkerworld. Get your tickets now and prepare for an electrifying performance!

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Goyang World Flower & Culture Tourism Festival 2024: Experience Global Cultures & K-Pop in Korea

Goyang World Flower & Culture Tourism Festival 2024: Experience Global Cultures & K-Pop in Korea

Goyang World Flower & Culture Tourism Festival: A Fusion of Global Cultures

Dates: October 2nd – October 6th, 2024

The 2024 Goyang World Flower & Culture Tourism Festival promises a vibrant celebration of both local and international traditions, set against the beautiful backdrop of a world-class flower exhibition. Designed to revitalize local tourism and boost the economy, this festival offers a unique blend of world culture, dynamic K-Culture performances, and the charm of Goyang City, creating a truly unforgettable experience. This event is spearheading a new focus on night tourism, offering extended hours and exciting evening programming.

Festival Highlights:

This year’s festival features a diverse range of activities, categorized into daily and continuous programs:

1. Daily Programs: Each day offers a distinct theme and exciting competitions:

  • Autumn Flower Decoration Contest: Witness the artistry and creativity of floral arrangements.
  • B-boying Contest: Experience the energy and excitement of competitive breakdancing.
  • World National Flower & Traditional Costume Festival: A colorful display celebrating the floral emblems and traditional attire of nations around the world.
  • Flower Model Contest: Elegance and beauty take center stage in this captivating competition.
  • K-pop Cover Choreography Competition: Cheer on talented dancers as they showcase their interpretations of popular K-pop hits.

2. All-Day Programs: Enjoy these special events throughout the festival period:

  • Media Facade Show: Be mesmerized by stunning visual displays projected onto building facades.
  • Drone Basketball Tournament: A unique and futuristic sporting event.
  • Love Poem Reading BY Goyang: A romantic and heartfelt tribute to the city.
  • DJ Party: Dance the night away with energetic music and lively atmosphere.
  • World Culture Performances: Immerse yourself in the rich diversity of global artistic expressions.

Event Details:

Location: 595 Hosu-ro, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do (Janghang-dong)

Accommodation: Find hotels near the festival

Admission Fee: Free

Contact: 031-927-9974

Follow on Instagram: World Flower Official Instagram

Official Website: www.goyangtca.or.kr

World Flower & Culture Tourism Festival

Chuncheon 2024: Republic of Korea Harmony K-POP Concert – Enjoy K-Pop Alongside the World Taekwondo Championships!

Experience the Harmony of K-Pop and Taekwondo in Chuncheon!

Republic of Korea Harmony K-POP Concert alongside the Chuncheon 2024 World Taekwondo Junior Championships

Event Poster

Get ready for an electrifying night of K-Pop and international athleticism! This October, Chuncheon, South Korea will host the thrilling Republic of Korea Harmony K-POP Concert, coinciding with the prestigious Chuncheon 2024 World Taekwondo Junior Championships.

Event Details:

  • Event Type: Concert Festival
  • Age Restriction: 8 years and older
  • Date: October 3rd, 2024
  • Time: 6:30 PM – 9:10 PM KST
  • Venue: Chuncheon Songam Sports Town Auxiliary Stadium (within the main stadium)
  • Address: 136, Sports Town-gil, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do

Immerse Yourself in the Festivities:

This vibrant event promises an unforgettable experience, blending the energy of a K-Pop concert with the excitement of a world-class sporting event. While the full artist lineup is yet to be announced, expect a captivating showcase of talent against the backdrop of the Taekwondo Championships.

Ticket Information:

  • Designated Seat (General Admission): 50,000 KRW

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to witness the fusion of Korean pop culture and athletic prowess!

Stay tuned for updates on the artist lineup and further event details.

Images from Chuncheon:

[Chuncheon Image 1](Link to a relevant website or image source if available)
[Chuncheon Image 2](Link to a relevant website or image source if available)

https://www.billconcert.com/

Yangju Ten Million Gomphrena Festival 2024: Immerse Yourself in Korea’s Largest Gomphrena Colony

Yangju Ten Million Gomphrena Festival 2024: Immerse Yourself in Korea's Largest Gomphrena Colony

Yangju Ten Million Gomphrena Festival: A Sea of Autumn Colors

Date: September 27th – 29th, 2024

The Yangju Ten Million Gomphrena Festival, a beloved autumn flower festival in northern Gyeonggi Province, invites you to immerse yourself in a vibrant spectacle of color. What began as a humble experience farm has blossomed into a renowned destination, attracting countless visitors through word-of-mouth praise.

This festival showcases the nation’s largest gomphrena (globe amaranth) colony, a breathtaking sea of vibrant hues. Beyond the ten million gomphrena flowers, you’ll encounter over 50 other varieties, including pink muhly, kochia, cockscomb, and canna, creating a tapestry of autumnal beauty.

A Festival of Flowers and Entertainment:

The Yangju Ten Million Gomphrena Festival is designed to be an engaging experience for all. Visitors can explore distinctive experience and sales booths, enjoy talented busking performances, and participate in a variety of activities.

This year’s festival promises an even richer cultural experience by jointly hosting the 1st Yangju Busking Championship at Nari Farm alongside the Yangju Arts Festival. Prepare to be entertained by diverse musical and artistic performances throughout the festival.

Highlights:

1. Main Programs:

  • Flower Parade & Opening Ceremony: Witness the official start of the festival with a vibrant parade and ceremony.
  • Musical & Congratulatory Performances: Enjoy performances by popular artists like Kim Da-hyun and DJ Domino Boys.
  • Youth Dance Festival: Celebrate the energy and talent of young dancers.
  • Gomphrena Citizen Song Festival & Congratulatory Performance: Experience the community spirit with performances by renowned artists like Yoon Tae-hwa and Hong Ji-yoon.
  • Yangju City Performing Arts Company Performance: Enjoy a captivating performance by the local arts company.
  • National Busking Championship Finals: Witness the culmination of the busking competition with talented finalists.
  • Yuchihae Concert: Conclude the festival with a memorable concert featuring Singer Tei and other artists.

2. Side Programs:

  • Experience Booths: Engage in hands-on activities and discover local crafts.
  • Agricultural Product Sales: Support local farmers and purchase fresh produce.
  • Free Photo Shoots: Capture stunning memories amidst the flowers.
  • Busking Performances: Enjoy spontaneous musical performances throughout the festival grounds.

Location & Contact Information:

Yangju Ten Million Gomphrena Festival

How to Get Tickets for ZEROBASEONE THE FIRST TOUR \[TIMELESS WORLD] in Seoul (Sept 2024)

2024 ZEROBASEONE THE FIRST TOUR [TIMELESS WORLD] IN SEOUL

Dive into the Timeless World with ZEROBASEONE as they embark on their first tour, kicking it off in Seoul!

Poster

Event Details

Event Type: Concert
Age Restriction: 7 years old and above
Dates: September 20th – 22nd, 2024
Venue: KSPO DOME
Address: Olympic Park, 424 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul (88-2, Bangi-dong)

Concert Schedule

  • September 20th, 2024 (Fri): 7:30 PM KST
  • September 21st, 2024 (Sat): 6:00 PM KST
  • September 22nd, 2024 (Sun): 5:00 PM KST

Ticket Prices

  • VIP Seat (General): 198,000 KRW
  • Regular Seat (General): 154,000 KRW

Ticketing Information

Important Notes:

  • No On-site Ticket Sales: Tickets will not be available for purchase at the venue on the day of the performance.
  • Online Sales Deadline: Remaining tickets can be purchased online up to 8 hours before the start of each performance.
  • Bank Transfer Restriction: Bank transfers as a payment method will be restricted from September 5th, 2024 (00:00 AM KST) until the end of the reservation period to ensure a smooth booking process.
  • Performance Information: By purchasing a ticket, you acknowledge and agree to the performance information. This information is subject to change. Please review the most up-to-date details before attending the concert.

Ticket Reservation Schedule:

  • Fan Club Pre-order Verification: July 31st, 2024 (2:00 PM KST) – August 7th, 2024 (11:59:59 PM KST)
  • Fan Club Pre-order: August 7th, 2024 (8:00 PM KST) – August 7th, 2024 (11:59:59 PM KST)
  • General Ticket Sales: August 8th, 2024 (8:00 PM KST) onwards

Purchase Limits:

  • Fan Club Pre-sale: 1 ticket per person per show
  • General Reservation: 2 tickets per person per show (including any tickets purchased during the fan club pre-sale)

Bank Transfer Payments:

  • If you choose bank transfer as your payment method, you must complete the deposit by 11:59:59 PM KST on the day of booking to prevent cancellation. (It is recommended to complete the deposit by 11:30 PM KST due to varying bank processing times).

Ticket Delivery Information:

  • Bulk Shipping: To minimize congestion on the day of the performance, tickets will be shipped in bulk starting on August 26th, 2024.
  • Bulk Shipping Eligibility: Orders completed by 6:00 PM KST on August 14th, 2024 will be included in the bulk shipping. Reservations made after this deadline will require on-site ticket pickup.
  • Shipping Address Changes: You can modify your shipping address for bulk shipping orders until 6:00 PM KST on August 14th, 2024. Please ensure the accuracy of all recipient information (shipping address, recipient name, and contact details) before completing your purchase. Changes after shipping are difficult to accommodate, and re-delivery after a return is not possible (only on-site pickup will be available).
  • Cancellation of Bulk Shipping: Due to the production of digital photo tickets, requests to cancel bulk shipping reservations after 6:00 PM KST on August 14th, 2024, must be made through the Interpark Customer Center (1544-1555) or via 1:1 inquiries before 12:00 PM KST on August 26th, 2024. Please note that refunds for shipping costs will not be provided.

Ticket On-site Pickup Information:

  • Required Identification: To collect your tickets on-site, you must present both a valid physical ID card and your Interpark reservation confirmation, which verifies the identity of the applicant.
  • Verification: Ensure that the information on your ID card matches the details on your Interpark reservation confirmation. Tickets can only be collected if the information is consistent.
  • Applicant Collection Only: Tickets cannot be collected by individuals other than the applicant or if the applicant cannot verify their identity.
  • Detailed Information: For further details, please refer to the "Ticket On-site Pickup Information" section in the image below.

Wheelchair Seat Reservation Information:

  • Fan Club Pre-sale: August 7th, 2024 (10:00 AM KST – 5:59:59 PM KST)
  • General Reservation: August 8th, 2024 (10:00 AM KST onwards)

Wheelchair Seat Reservations:

  • Wheelchair seat reservations can only be made by contacting the Interpark Customer Center (1544-1555) by phone. (Customer Center operating hours: 9:00 AM KST – 6:00 PM KST)
  • For detailed information, please consult the "Wheelchair Seat Reservation Information" section in the image below.

Ticket Security:

Please be aware that lost or damaged tickets cannot be reissued under any circumstances. It is crucial to safeguard your tickets.

2025 World DJ Festival at Seoul Land: Experience Korea’s Biggest Electronic Music Event (June 14-15)

World DJ Festival 2025 - Early Bird

2025 World DJ Festival: A Two-Day Electronic Music Extravaganza

2025 World DJ Festival Poster

Get ready to immerse yourself in a pulsating world of electronic music as the 2025 World DJ Festival takes over Seoul Land! This two-day extravaganza promises an unforgettable experience for electronic music enthusiasts, featuring a stellar lineup of world-renowned DJs and a vibrant festival atmosphere.

Event Details

  • Event Type: Concert Festival
  • Age Restriction: 19 years and older (ID required)
  • Dates: Saturday, June 14th, 2025 & Sunday, June 15th, 2025
  • Time: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM (KST) both days
  • Venue: Seoul Land
  • Address: 181, Gwangmyeong-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, Seoul Land (Makgye-dong)

Daily Schedule

June 14th, 2025 (Saturday): 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM (KST)
June 15th, 2025 (Sunday): 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM (KST)

(Detailed lineup information will be released closer to the event date. Stay tuned!)

Ticket Information

Secure your spot at the 2025 World DJ Festival with these early bird ticket options:

  • Early Bird 2-Day Pass: 219,000 KRW (Grants access to the festival on both Saturday and Sunday)
  • Early Bird 1-Day Pass (Saturday): 129,000 KRW (Grants access to the festival on Saturday only)
  • Early Bird 1-Day Pass (Sunday): 129,000 KRW (Grants access to the festival on Sunday only)

Note: All ticket prices are in Korean Won (KRW).

Festival Highlights

(Specific details about festival activities, food vendors, and other attractions will be announced soon.)

Festival Grounds

Prepare yourself for an electrifying weekend of music, dancing, and unforgettable memories at the 2025 World DJ Festival. Grab your tickets early and join the party!

Gyeonggi Province World Coffee Bean Festival 2024: Explore the World of Coffee in Korea

Gyeonggi Province World Coffee Bean Festival 2024: Explore the World of Coffee in Korea

Gyeonggi Province World Coffee Bean Festival

Date: October 5th – 6th, 2024

Location: Eunhaeng-dong, Siheung-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea

Admission: Free

Contact: +82-70-7769-5731

Website: [Website Link Here – If Available]

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gyeonggi_coffeebeans_festival/

Gyeonggi-do World Coffee Bean Festival

The Gyeonggi Province World Coffee Bean Festival is an exciting event that celebrates the heart of coffee culture – the bean! This festival aims to become a leading coffee trade hub and a must-visit tourist destination in Korea, rivaling renowned events like the New York and London Coffee Exchange landmarks and Germany’s Oktoberfest.

By inviting embassies and coffee farms from across the globe, the festival offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse world of coffee beans and experience the rich culture surrounding this beloved beverage.

Festival Highlights:

Main Programs:

  • Coffee Curation Road Exhibition and Experience: Embark on a journey through the world of coffee with curated exhibitions and, of course, free tastings!
  • Local Cafe Experience: Discover the charm of local Korean cafes and their unique coffee offerings.
  • Selection of Coffee of the Year: Witness the exciting competition to determine the year’s best coffee beans.
  • Coffee Quiz Contest: Test your coffee knowledge and compete for prizes.

Side Programs:

  • Festival Docent: Gain deeper insights into the world of coffee with guided tours (pre-registration required).
  • Hand Drip Experience: Learn the art of hand-drip coffee brewing and create your perfect cup.
  • Coffee Painting: Unleash your creativity with coffee-based art.
  • Coffee Bean Upcycling: Discover innovative ways to repurpose used coffee grounds.

Consumer Participation Program:

  • Young Local Creator Flea Market: Support local artisans and find unique, handcrafted goods.

Other:

  • Autumn Concert: Enjoy live music performances that complement the festive atmosphere.

Why You Should Attend:

The Gyeonggi Province World Coffee Bean Festival is a must-visit for coffee lovers, industry professionals, and anyone looking for a unique cultural experience. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee connoisseur or just starting your coffee journey, this festival offers something for everyone.

Come and explore the world of coffee, discover new flavors, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this exciting event!

Yeongdong Nangye Traditional Music Festival 2024: Experience Authentic Korean Music & Culture

Yeongdong Nangye Traditional Music Festival: A Celebration of Korean Heritage

Immerse Yourself in the Rhythms of Korea

Date: October 9th – 13th, 2024

The Yeongdong Nangye Traditional Music Festival, a vibrant celebration of Korean music and culture, returns for its 55th edition. With a rich history spanning 647 years, dating back to the birth of the legendary Master Park Yeon, this festival showcases the enduring legacy of traditional Korean performing arts. Held annually in Yeongdong, the festival honors Master Park Yeon’s musical contributions while promoting traditional music on a global stage.

Embracing Tradition, Inspiring Innovation:

The 55th Yeongdong Nangye Traditional Music Festival aims to share the beauty and depth of Korean traditional music with the world, anticipating a resurgence of interest in Korean culture. As Korea’s sole traditional music festival, it offers a unique platform to experience authentic Korean music performances and engage in immersive cultural programs. Through a diverse range of activities, the festival strives to:

  • Preserve and promote traditional performing arts for contemporary audiences.
  • Enhance the region’s cultural tourism offerings with locally-focused programs.
  • Foster community harmony by encouraging cultural appreciation and participation.

Festival Highlights:

Daily Performance Schedule:

  • October 9th (Day 1):
    • Royal Procession and Street Parade (Yeongdong Station to Hasang Parking Lot)
    • 4th National Pungmul (farmers’ band music) Competition
    • 66th Chungbuk Art Exhibition
    • Fireworks Display
  • October 10th (Day 2):
    • Cheongo Tabeok Ceremony (Drumming Ceremony for Heaven)
    • Sungmoje (Ancestral Ritual)
    • Academic Conference (Simcheon-myeon Korean Music Experience Village)
    • Opening Ceremony
    • K-Media Performance & Congratulatory Performance
  • October 11th (Day 3):
    • Large-scale performance by the National Gugak Center Orchestra
    • Traditional Korean music performances
  • October 12th (Day 4):
    • National Saxophone Competition
    • CJB National TOP10 Music Show (Broadcast Recording)
    • Municipal Korean Music Orchestra Performance
  • October 13th (Day 5):
    • Traditional Wedding Ceremony Experience
    • Local Elementary, Middle, and High School Korean Music Orchestra Performances
    • Municipal Korean Music Orchestra Performance
    • Closing Ceremony

Ongoing Performances and Activities:

  • World Traditional Music Performances: Experience the diversity of global music with performances from 10 countries (CIOFF Performances).
  • Traditional and Contemporary Performances: Enjoy a variety of performances including tightrope walking, Madangguk (farmers’ musical drama), street performances, pantomime, fusion Korean music, and local resource performances.
  • Korean Music Broadcasting Station: Tune in to live broadcasts and recordings.
  • Park Yeon Film Screening: Learn more about the life and legacy of Master Park Yeon through film.

Korean Music Experience Village (Branch Event):

  • Cheongo Tabeok Ceremony (Drumming Ceremony for Heaven) & Sungmoje (Ancestral Ritual)
  • Korean Music Academic Conference
  • Nangye Korean Music Orchestra Regular Performances (Day 4 & 5)

Culinary Delights and Immersive Experiences:

Food Zone:

  • 11 Eup-Myeon (township) Saemaul Restaurants (Flavor Lounge): Savor the authentic flavors of Yeongdong.
  • Food Trucks: Enjoy a diverse range of street food options.
  • Children’s Food Zone: Dedicated area with kid-friendly treats.

*Please note that information on representative food is from the previous year’s (2023) festival, and details on the 2024 food offerings are currently being updated.*

Korean Music Theme Park Zone:

  • Korean Music (Night View) Photo Zone: Capture stunning memories against a backdrop of traditional music-themed installations.
  • Korean Music Experience Zone: Engage with interactive exhibits and learn about traditional instruments.
  • Korean Music Healing Art Zone: Discover the therapeutic power of Korean music.
  • Korean Music Exhibition Hall: Explore an exhibition of traditional instruments and enjoy hands-on experiences.
  • Large Korean Musical Instrument Exhibition: Marvel at the craftsmanship of traditional Korean instruments.

Amenities:

  • Korean Music Content Complex Space: The festival utilizes indoor spaces such as the Multipurpose Cultural Arts Center, corridors, and healing centers to provide a comprehensive Korean music experience.

Plan Your Visit:

Location: 117, Yeongdong Healing-ro, Yeongdong-eup, Yeongdong-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do

Admission Fee: Free

Contact: +82 43-745-8917 ~ 9

Website: http://www.ydnan-gye.co.kr/

Festival Poster:

Yeongdong Nangye Traditional Music Festival Poster

Gumi Food Festival 2024: A Culinary Journey Through the Heart of Korea

Gumi Food Festival: A Culinary Celebration in the Heart of Korea

Date: October 5th – 6th, 2024

The Gumi City Food Festival returns for its third year, promising a delightful experience for all ages. Launched in 2022 to uplift spirits and revitalize the local economy, the festival offers a vibrant blend of culinary delights, captivating performances, and engaging activities for families, friends, and couples alike.

Romantic Gumi: Sights and Sounds

Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere with a variety of captivating sights and sounds:

  • Opening Performance and Parade: Kick off the festivities with a spectacular opening ceremony and a vibrant parade showcasing the city’s spirit.
  • Food Art Contest (Plating): Witness the artistry of culinary presentation as chefs compete to create visually stunning dishes.
  • Fork Festival & Autumn Romantic Busking: Enjoy live music performances that create a romantic and enchanting ambiance.
  • Linked Events: Enhance your experience by exploring concurrent events such as the October Music Concert, National Song Festival, and the 2024 Gumi Reading Culture Festival.

Delicious Gumi: A Gastronomic Adventure

Embark on a culinary journey through a diverse range of flavors and cuisines:

  • Gumi Gourmet Zone: Discover innovative and exciting new dishes created in collaboration with renowned Chef Ho Young Jung.
  • Food Zone: Explore a wide array of food booths offering over 200 delectable menu items to tantalize your taste buds.
  • Samgyeopgugeo Zone: Experience the joy of Korean BBQ in a unique "Camping Zone in the City" setting.
  • Local Agricultural Specialties: Savor the freshest produce and regional specialties that Gumi has to offer.
  • Gumi Food Companies: Discover and support local food companies showcasing their unique products.

Fun Gumi: Entertainment for Everyone

Engage in a variety of fun-filled activities for all ages:

  • Family Lunch Box Contest: Showcase your culinary creativity and compete for the title of best family lunch box.
  • Silent Disco (EDM Party): Dance the night away at a silent disco featuring electrifying EDM beats.
  • Mukbang Contest: Witness competitive eaters take on the challenge of devouring Gumi Bread and Gumi Danggim Lager with impressive speed.
  • Street Events: Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with various street performances and interactive activities.
  • Air Bounce & Experience Zone: Let the kids (and the young at heart) enjoy inflatable fun and engaging experiences in science and cooking.

Event Details

Location: Songjeong-dong, Gumi-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Admission: Free (Some activities may require a fee)
Contact: 054-480-5592
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gumi_food_festival
Homepage: (Homepage link not provided in draft)

Poster:

Gumi Food Festival Poster

Digital Hurdles for Foreign Tourists in South Korea

Foreign tourists using AI translation services at Hongik University Station in Seoul

On September 9th, Lance Shakosky (33), from the United States, looked bewildered in front of the UNESCO building in Myeongdong, Seoul. When a reporter asked what was wrong, he showed his phone and asked, “Where is Myeongdong?” The problem was that Google Maps, his essential travel tool, wasn’t working. He laughed when he realized he was actually in Myeongdong, but wondered, “Doesn’t Google Maps work in Korea?”

The next morning, exchange student Julia Landa (22) shared the difficulties she had experienced during her month in Korea. Her biggest wish was to binge-watch Korean dramas and order “chimaek” (chicken and beer) delivery. However, using delivery apps was not easy. She downloaded the recommended “Baedal Minjok” app, but faced difficulties with the complicated phone verification process, unlike the familiar “Continue with Google” option she was used to in the US.

Foreign tourists queuing to buy subway tickets at Myeongdong Station in Seoul

High Digital Barriers for Foreigners

Why is it difficult for foreigners to “live like locals” in Korea? While the number of foreign tourists visiting Korea in the first half of this year reached 7.7 million, a 73.8% increase from last year, complaints about Korea’s digital environment are also growing. As domestic apps dominate the market, overseas services like Uber and Google Maps have become virtually unusable. The decline in the revisit rate of foreign tourists from 58.3% in 2019 to 56.1% last year may be related to this change.

The biggest problem is that Google Maps doesn’t provide accurate information in Korea. Shakosky expressed his frustration, saying, “It’s natural to turn on Google Maps to find locations and get directions when traveling.” However, due to a law restricting the export of map data for security reasons, Google Maps does not function properly in Korea. There’s a running joke among foreigners that they should be advised to ditch Google Maps and use domestic apps like Naver Maps or KakaoMap at Incheon Airport.

Foreign tourists have to adapt to these “local apps.” For example, Uber does not offer ride-sharing services in Korea and redirects users to the domestic app “UT,” which has fewer taxi options than Kakao T. Landa said that while she was able to create an account with her US phone number, there were restrictions on using foreign credit cards.

‘Identity Verification’ – Another Hurdle

Another difficulty is the ‘identity verification’ process. Many apps require a Korean phone number, which is inconvenient for short-term foreign visitors using eSIMs. Additionally, many apps require credit card verification, making it even more difficult for foreigners to use them. Convenient payment services like Naver Pay and Kakao Pay are virtually inaccessible to foreigners due to these regulations.

Relative Improvements in Japan

Japan, once known as “Galapagos” for its cash-centric society, is changing rapidly. Apple Pay can be used on public transport, and mobile payment services like Line Pay are widely accepted. While UberX is not available, it is possible to hail taxis through the app. Mr. Park, a resident of Japan, said, “Japan has changed a lot since the Tokyo Olympics,” noting that services for foreign tourists are improving.

Korean companies are also beginning to recognize these issues and are attempting to make changes. Baedal Minjok and Kakao T, which have long been difficult for foreign tourists to use, now support overseas card payments, and Kakao T has improved its services to allow easy registration without a Kakao account through the ‘K-Ride’ app.

Need for Improvement in Digital Tourism Infrastructure

Professor Jeong Ran-soo of the Department of Tourism at Hanyang University emphasized the need to strengthen support for digital tourism infrastructure, mentioning the need to expand multilingual app support and regulatory innovation. He argues that in a situation where foreign companies like Booking.com are dominating the market, it is necessary to prevent the outflow of domestic capital and develop services for foreign tourists.

In conclusion, Korea needs to improve its digital environment to provide a better experience for foreign tourists. The future of Korean tourism will be bright only when it finds a balance between tradition and global trends and provides services that meet the expectations of foreign tourists.

Analytics