South Korean tourists drive Vietnam’s tourism with increased spending on accommodation and dining, Visa reports. Emerging destinations see major growth.
Vietnam continues to cement its position as a top destination for South Korean tourists, with spending from this group showing significant growth across several cities, according to Visa’s latest Green Shoots Radar survey. The survey reveals a notable resurgence in Korean travel to Vietnam, with 37% of respondents indicating they visited for leisure or work in the past year, up from 23% the year before.

Vietnam: A Popular Destination for South Korean Visitors
Visa’s data ranks Vietnam as the second most visited destination for South Korean travelers, trailing only Japan (54%) and tying with Australia (16%). The Vietnam National Authority of Tourism reported more than 11.4 million foreign visitors between January and August 2024, marking a 46% increase year-on-year. South Korea remains Vietnam’s largest source of tourists, with over 3 million arrivals during this period.

Korean Tourists’ Spending on the Rise
Korean tourists’ spending habits have shifted significantly, with a sharp increase in accommodation expenditure. In the first half of 2024, accommodation accounted for 21% of total spending by South Korean visitors, representing a 60% jump compared to the previous year. This trend further solidifies Vietnam's reputation as a leading destination for resort and luxury stays.

Dining also remained a key spending category, accounting for 17% of total expenditures, reinforcing Vietnam's growing status as a culinary hotspot. Visa has played a role in this, enhancing the local food scene through its partnership with The MICHELIN Guide, helping to elevate dining experiences across the country with digital payment solutions.

Emerging Destinations and Spending Trends
While popular cities like Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hanoi still lead in tourist spending—representing 25%, 15%, and 10% of total expenditures, respectively—emerging destinations are experiencing remarkable growth. Nha Trang, Da Lat, and Phu Quoc saw spending increase by approximately 90%, 150%, and 160%, respectively, underscoring a broader geographical spread in tourism activity.

A Promising Future for Vietnam’s Tourism Sector
The survey highlights the continuing appeal of Vietnam for South Korean travelers, with a growing emphasis on accommodation and contactless payments. Visa’s analysis suggests that the rise of new tourist hotspots and the country’s strong position in the culinary tourism sector will continue to bolster Vietnam’s tourism economy in the coming years.