Phu Quoc tops Rankify Korea's list of favorite destinations for South Korean tourists, outshining Nha Trang and Tokyo with its pristine beauty, unique attractions, and luxurious stays. Phu Quoc Island has been named the top destination for South Korean tourists, surpassing renowned spots like Nha Trang, Đà Nẵng, Bangkok, and Tokyo, according to a recent ranking by Rankify Korea. The island, once a hidden gem, has emerged as the favorite travel destination for Koreans, particularly those aged 30-39, with women making up 67% of visitors.

From Rising Star to Top Destination
On July 15, Rankify Korea released its list of the top 10 most popular international destinations for South Korean tourists, with Phu Quoc taking the number one spot. This ranking marked a significant achievement for the island, beating out established tourist favorites like Nha Trang and Tokyo. Phu Quoc scored an impressive 12,855 points, well ahead of Nha Trang (10,157 points) and Tokyo (3,796 points).

Phu Quoc's rise to prominence has been swift. Once labeled a "rising star" for South Korean travelers in a Yonhap News report last November, it has now become a go-to destination. Its allure even attracted K-pop star UEE, who visited the island twice in just six months, while popular blogger Mango Fairy, with over 16,000 followers on Naver, dubbed Phu Quoc the "Maldives of Vietnam."

Currently, four South Korean airlines operate direct flights to Phu Quoc, and this number is expected to increase. On July 17, Eastar Jet launched four weekly direct flights from Cheongju, further solidifying the island's connectivity to South Korea.

Why Phu Quoc is a Hit with South Korean Tourists
Kim Kye Yong, General Manager of Korean Air in Vietnam, attributes Phu Quoc’s popularity to its pristine nature and luxurious accommodations. “Phu Quoc is well-preserved, with stunning resorts, the world’s longest three-rope cable car, exciting theme parks, and European-style architecture,” he said. The island offers an ideal mix of relaxation and adventure, making it highly shareable on social media, a major factor for South Korean tourists.

The island's natural beauty is another major draw. Phu Quoc boasts 150 kilometers of coastline, 14 golden sand beaches, and Phu Quoc National Park, which covers two-thirds of the island. It is also home to the Phu Quoc Marine Reserve, part of the Kiên Giang Biosphere Reserve, known for its vibrant marine life.

Endless Experiences Await
Beyond its natural beauty, Phu Quoc offers unique entertainment experiences. A highlight is Sunset Town, an entertainment complex in the island's southern part. Visitors can stroll along the Kiss Bridge, watch the Kiss of the Sea multimedia show, and enjoy nightly fireworks. The À Ơi Theatre, Vietnam’s first puppet theater by the sea, offers cultural performances, while the Vui Phết Night Market provides a lively setting for street food and entertainment.

For Instagram-savvy tourists, Phu Quoc offers countless "Instagrammable" spots, particularly in Sunset Town. A must-try experience is the world’s longest three-rope cable car, which connects Phu Quoc to Hòn Thơm Island. South Korean tourists make up half of the international visitors on this attraction, enjoying panoramic views of the emerald waters below.

Luxurious and Affordable Stays
Phu Quoc caters to all types of tourists, from high-end travelers to budget-conscious adventurers. In the southern part of the island, luxurious resorts such as JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort, New World Phu Quoc Resort, and La Festa Phu Quoc, Curio Collection by Hilton offer premium experiences. For younger or budget travelers, Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay and smaller boutique hotels in Sunset Town provide more affordable yet equally memorable stays.

A Bright Future for Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc's growing appeal has led to a sharp increase in South Korean visitors. In the first four months of 2024, the island welcomed nearly 220,000 South Korean tourists, a 165% increase year-on-year. Experts predict this trend will continue, especially with the upcoming Chuseok holiday, one of South Korea's most significant celebrations.

With its blend of natural beauty, exciting attractions, and diverse accommodations, Phu Quoc is expected to remain a top choice for South Korean tourists for years to come.