Korea Tourism Organization Launches Dynamic U.S. Campaign: K-Tourism Roadshows Sweep across the US
26 Abril 2024 - 8:25AM
Business Wire
The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) has intensified efforts to
entice more visitors from the United States with the launch of
expansive promotional campaigns, featuring K-Tourism roadshows in
key cities such as New York (April 23rd, 2024), Los Angeles (April
25th, 2024), and Chicago (April 29th, 2024).
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The Korean Traditional Music and Dance
Center of New York (KTMDC) is the oldest established Korean
performing arts organization in New York City. (Photo: Business
Wire)
The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, in partnership
with the KTO, organized a successful K-Tourism roadshow aimed at
inviting US travelers to explore Korea at the prestigious Cipriani
42nd venue in New York on April 23th, 2024. Executive Director, Jo
Hee-jin of the International Marketing Department at Korea Tourism
Organization stated, "The KTO will contribute to creating new
demand for visits to Korea by developing themed products related to
K-culture, attracting student groups, and the promotion of regional
travel products, among other comprehensive marketing
activities."
In 2023, the number of US tourists visited Korea surged to 1.08
million, surpassing pre-pandemic levels recorded in 2019 at 1.04
million. Preliminary data from the first quarter of 2024 indicates
a remarkable growth of over 30% compared to the previous year,
signaling a robust upward trajectory. The US roadshow was
strategically planned to capitalize on this positive momentum by
strengthening relationships with key partners in the U.S. travel
industry and media.
The New York K-Tourism roadshow attracted over 300 attendees,
including Tour Operators and Agencies focusing on education,
luxury, active senior, and vegan-specialized themed trips. At the
heart of the program, the Travel Mart facilitated meetings between
domestic companies and local U.S. travel agencies. Among the Korean
Tour Operator delegation were ArisuTour, Cultural Corps of Korean
Buddhism, Air Premia, Globaleur Co., Ltd., Busan Tourism
Organization, DaOne USA, PremiumPass International Corp., D&G
Tour Co., Ltd, Rye Tour Co. Ltd., Korean Air, US Travel Korea,
Asiana Airlines, Kim's M&T, Holiday Planners, Dahae DMC Korea,
Holidaylink DMC, and Hanatour ITC. Representing the U.S., included
Worldstrides, Student Universe, Kensington Tours, EF Gap Year, EF
Study Abroad, Road Scholar, Conservancy Travel, Majestic
Vacations/GTT, Embark Collective, Tailored Travel, Zorkas Travel,
Scholartrip, Arrangements Abroad, Remote Lands, Pacific Holidays,
Vegan Tours New York, Scenset, and Sky Vacations.
Noteworthy accolades were bestowed upon Remote Lands and
Majestic Vacations/GTT. Their exemplary efforts in attracting
tourists from the U.S and crafting diverse K-culture-themed travel
offerings were recognized with the Korea Tourism Awards. Catherine
Heald, CEO of Remote Lands and Keng Hseuh, Executive Vice
President, Majestic Vacations/GTT expressed appreciation, citing
the increased demand for Korean travel products, driven by the
popularity of K-culture.
The event was further enhanced by captivating performances by
guitarist Lee Byung-woo, renowned for his contributions to
acclaimed films like "The Host" and "Mother" by director Bong
Joon-ho, alongside dynamic K-Pop dance acts and traditional Korean
musical showcases. The President of USTOA, Terry Dale, expressed
congratulatory messages and shared his experiences while in
Korea.
On April 25th, 2024, in Los Angeles, the Busan Tourism
Organization and the Gyeongsangbuk-do Provincial Office of Culture
and Tourism, along with other partners, will spearhead Korea
tourism promotional events. The focus will be on promoting tourism
in Busan and Gyeongbuk (Andong) to Travel Agents and MICE Agencies
from the western U.S. and Hawaii. Notably, former Major League
Baseball player, Park Chan-ho will partake in a talk show promoting
Korean tourism.
About Korea Tourism Organization
Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) is an organization of the
Republic of Korea (South Korea) under the Ministry of Culture,
Sports and Tourism (MCST). KTO serves the interests of Korea’s
tourism economy by marketing the country as an all-season visitor
destination. Fascinating history, rich culture, amazing food, and
friendly people combine to make South Korea one of the most visited
countries. The Visit Korea Year 2023-2024 campaign promotes
K-Culture. Located in East Asia, South Korea is a country of
contrasts, with tourist attractions ranging from ancient
mountaintop Buddhist temples such as Bulguksa Temple to the
ultra-modern skyscrapers as Lotte World Tower in Seoul.
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version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240425515251/en/
Media Contact: Patrice Henry / Haeri Choi Korea Tourism
Organization patrice@knto.or.kr | chaeriy@knto.or.kr