In the wake of devastating wildfires sweeping through Korea’s southeast and a steady decline in domestic tourism, the Korea Travel Expo opened its doors in Seoul on Thursday, signaling the tourism industry’s resilience and determination to bounce back.
The 22nd edition of the expo, held under the theme “PLAY Travel, REPLAY Region”, seeks to reignite interest in domestic travel, with a special focus on areas like Andong, North Gyeongsang Province, which is currently facing the challenges of destructive wildfires that threaten its rich cultural heritage.
The event, co-hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism and the Korea Tourism Association, showcases around 260 booths from 120 government institutions and tourism-related companies. Each booth highlights the unique attractions, experiences, and cultural offerings of various regions across South Korea, encouraging both local and international travelers to explore new destinations within the country.
Despite the ongoing challenges, the expo serves as a powerful reminder of the country’s commitment to preserving and promoting its tourism industry, ensuring that even the most affected regions are given a platform to showcase their resilience and beauty.