Government aims for 30 million foreign tourists to visit Korea
Selected as prominent global festivals are events such as the Boryeong Mud Festival, Andong Mask Dance Festival, Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival, and more. These festivals have been recognized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism as integral components to attract foreign tourists to Korea. The government’s goal of having 30 million foreign tourists visit the nation has prompted this initiative. By designating certain festivals as “global” and others as “preliminary global,” efforts are being made to enhance tourism appeal.
Festivals are significant drawcards for tourists worldwide, as seen with the high attendance and interest in events like the Songkran Festival in Thailand. The Rio Carnival in Brazil saw an increase of 12% in foreign visitors in 2025. With similar success in mind, Korea aims to cultivate domestic festivals as magnets for international tourists.
Efforts to bolster these festivals as key attractions for reaching the 30 million visitor target include significant financial support. These global festivals will receive 800 million won annually for up to three years, while preliminary global festivals will have 250 million won allocated each year. Part of the support includes strategic planning for tourism visits, developing immersive experiences for foreigners, creating a welcoming environment, and coordinating festival activities.
Each festival will be leveraged to showcase unique aspects of Korean culture and traditions. For instance, the Andong Mask Dance Festival will feature Seonyu Julbulnori and Hahoe Village experiences. The Boryeong Mud Festival will highlight ‘K-beauty’ tourism and extend popular programs into the evening hours. Partnerships with international online travel agencies aim to facilitate easy access to festival-related products. In addition, promotional efforts will target key markets to increase exposure and interest among potential tourists.
Collaboration with local governments will foster complementary tourism offerings around the festivals, encouraging visitors to explore nearby attractions. The Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival plans to create stay-inclusive tour packages with neighboring regions. Similarly, the Andong International Mask Dance Festival considers implementing special benefits for visitors to nearby sites in Gyeongbuk.
Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, Choi Hwi-young, expressed optimism for the future of Korean tourism in light of these developments. By integrating ‘K-culture’ seamlessly into festival experiences, the ministry hopes to provide foreign visitors with an authentic taste of Korean heritage and traditions. Through intentional investments and strategic partnerships, Korea is positioned to thrive as a top destination for global tourists.