Korea Approaches 1.3 Million Cruise Visitors, Targeting a Record Year
The number of foreign cruise visitors to South Korea reached 1.28 million from January to August, up 12%, with annual visitors expected to top 2 million.
The number of foreign arrivals to South Korea via cruise ships approached 1.3 million in the first eight months of the year, driven largely by arrivals from China.
Total foreign passengers and crew arriving on cruise ships reached 1.28 million from January to August, a 12% increase year-on-year, according to data from the Korea Tourism Organization. The data indicates 148 port calls and 638,905 arrivals scheduled for the fourth quarter, which could push the annual total to over 2 million visitors, surpassing last year's record of 1.6 million.
The city of Seogwipo on the southern island of Jeju accounted for more than half of sea arrivals through August. By nationality, Chinese citizens made up the largest single share at 57.7% during the period.
The data includes both foreign passengers and crew members, not just tourists, according to Yonhap News Agency, citing the Korea Tourism Organization. Growth is expected to continue with 148 ship calls and 638,905 arrivals scheduled for the final quarter of the year.
What do these terms mean?
Port call: A cruise ship stop at a specific port along its itinerary, with each stop counted separately in port statistics.
Cruise tourism: Travel aboard cruise ships between multiple ports, including accommodation, entertainment, and shore activities.
Record high: The highest recorded level for a specific indicator over a period of time, used to compare performance across years.
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