Korean Arrivals in Thailand Projected to Reach 1 Million Mark in Q3

Korean travelers visiting Thailand are expected to reach 1 million by the end of this year’s third quarter. Deputy governor for Asia and the South Pacific at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Tanes Petsuwan, stated that the resurgence of the Korean market is a positive indication, as Thailand has gained between 4,000 and 5,000 arrivals every day from Korea throughout the past two months, putting it among the top five countries for tourist arrivals.

The number of Koreans who went to the country as of June 18 was 712,492, putting Korea in the fourth spot with 11.8 million visitors. Russia was first, followed by China and Malaysia.

Mr. Tanes stated that urban adventures, retreats, and golf courses make Thailand popular among Korean travelers. This contrasts with other Asian markets, like China, where consumers would rather shop.

He said 85% of flights between Thailand and Korea are back in operation, linking Bangkok and Chiang Mai with Seoul and Busan.

Mr. Tanes stated that more charter flights would be introduced during the cooler months to meet the increasing demand during the peak season.

The average airfare is anticipated to become less expensive than in the early phases of the economic recovery. More travelers would plan visits to Thailand if airfares were less expensive.

Mr. Tanes stated that although the South Korean economy is expected to contract this year, many visitors will still be eager to travel.

In the meantime, he said, Thailand remains an attractive destination due to its cheap products and services, proximity, and abundance of airlines compared to traveling to Europe.

Mr. Tanes stated that Thailand and South Korea started a unique campaign this year to advertise tourism between the two countries, emphasizing each other’s soft power, as the tourism sector requires strong bilateral cooperation to develop.

Honorary secretary-general of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (Atta), Adith Chairattananon, pointed out that the Korea Tourism Organization invited the association to visit the latest attractions to discover the country’s new innovative tourism products last week.

These contain a platform that allows foreign travelers to search for tourism information and purchase goods and services online, along with virtual and augmented reality (AR) travel experiences.

SOURCE: Bangkok Post

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