Korean travelers embrace tailored journeys, data shows

Koreans are increasingly favoring hyper-personalized travel experiences that reflect individual interests and values, moving away from traditional bucket-list tourism, according to a report released Tuesday by the global travel app Skyscanner. The findings were presented at the “Travel Trend 2026” event in central Seoul. According to Skyscanner’s survey, 80 percent of Korean travelers expect to maintain or increase their travel frequency next year, with 31 percent planning to boost their budgets in 2026. Koreans spend considerably more on travel than many other nationalities, particularly for overseas trips. In 2024, Korean tourists spent a total of $14.32 billion abroad — averaging about $1,100 per trip. A defining trend for Korean travelers is growing interest in exploring local supermarkets. Rather than booking tables at well-known restaurants, 56 percent of travelers now report seeking out local supermarkets and convenience stores for their meals, with 52 percent saying it’s the best way to immerse themselves in local food culture. Another notable trend is the pursuit of coWeiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times Weiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times