The anticipated number of Korean visitors to Thailand is set to reach 1 million during this year’s third quarter, and the Korea Tourism Organization is keen to draw more Thai tourists through innovative smart tourism offerings.
Tanes Petsuwan, who holds the position of deputy governor for Asia and the South Pacific at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), expressed positivity about the resurgence of the Korean market.
He noted that Thailand has seen daily visitor counts from Korea in the range of 4,000-5,000 over the recent two-month period, placing it in the top five countries for visitor numbers.
By the 18th of June, the tally of Korean visitors to Thailand stood at 712,492, securing it the fourth position with a total of 11.8 million tourists. Russia took the top spot, followed by China and Malaysia.
Mr Tanes highlighted that Thailand holds an appeal for Korean tourists with its city sightseeing, wellness retreats, and golfing amenities. This is distinct from other Asian visitor demographics like China, where shopping is a more favoured activity.
Furthermore, he stated that 85% of flights between Thailand and Korea have resumed, establishing connections between key cities such as Bangkok and Chiang Mai with Seoul and Busan.
Mr Tanes expressed plans to introduce additional charter flights during the cooler months to cater to the peak travel season’s increased demand.
He anticipates that average airfare prices will drop below the rates experienced in the initial recovery phase, a shift that could incentivize more tourists to plan their visits to Thailand.
Despite predictions of a contraction in the South Korean economy this year, Mr Tanes believes a significant number of tourists will maintain their interest in travel.
He further added that Thailand’s appeal lies in its affordability, proximity, and the availability of numerous airlines for selection, especially when compared to a distant destination like Europe.
Mr Tanes mentioned a unique tourism promotion campaign launched this year by Thailand and South Korea to promote tourism between the nations, underscoring each country’s soft power.
This understanding stems from the recognition that strengthening growth in the tourism sector necessitates mutual cooperation.
Adith Chairattananon, the honourary secretary-general of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (Atta), mentioned that the association was invited by the Korea Tourism Organization last week.
The purpose of the invitation was to explore new attractions and understand the country’s latest smart tourism offerings.
These features include a platform that enables foreign tourists to retrieve tourism information, purchase products and services online, and provide virtual reality and augmented reality travel experiences.
Discussing Thai outbound tourism to South Korea, Mr Adith noted the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) registration requirement could deter Thai tourists, despite its anti-illegal employment intent.
