ع
Foreign tourist spending in South Korea reached a record US$911 million in May, marking the third consecutive month that monthly spending by international visitors has topped 1 trillion won, according to the Korea Tourism Organization on June 28, 2026. Credit card spending by inbound travelers rose 73.7 percent from a year earlier to 1.41 trillion won, the organization reported. The surge followed peaks in March and April linked to BTS performances, yet May maintained the high without such events.
The Korea Tourism Organization data indicated that the May record, despite the absence of major K-pop concerts, suggests the tourism sector is entering a more stable growth phase. Spending first broke the 1 trillion won barrier in March when global BTS fans gathered for a comeback show at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul. It then set another high in April as the group launched its “Arirang” world tour in nearby Goyang, a Yonhap News Agency report on the KTO figures noted.
According to the Korea Tourism Organization breakdown, shopping represented the largest portion of spending at 39.1 percent, followed by beauty wellness at 21.1 percent. Fashion accounted for 14.3 percent while lifestyle food made up 11.9 percent of the total. These categories reflect the strong demand for South Korean products and experiences among foreign visitors from diverse markets.
A report by Yonhap News Agency on the latest figures noted that the consistent high spending points to broader appeal beyond temporary event boosts. The World Travel and Tourism Council has reported that global tourism spending reached new records in 2025 with a 6.7 percent year-on-year rise to $11.7 trillion. South Korea has been among the Asian destinations benefiting from this trend as it recovers from pandemic-era lows, WTTC data shows.
The Korea Tourism Organization statistics show the country is on course to surpass 10 million foreign visitors this year, setting a potential new annual record. This would build on the momentum from the first five months of strong arrivals and expenditure. The economic boost from tourism supports multiple industries including retail, hospitality and transportation across the nation, according to the organization.
According to the Korea Tourism Organization, the sustained interest in South Korea’s lifestyle and cultural offerings has helped diversify the visitor base and reduce reliance on singular events. Local experts noted that the May performance without BTS concerts demonstrates maturing demand patterns in the sector. The figures align with regional benchmarks where cultural exports continue to drive visitor expenditure across Asia.
