International cruise tourism sees growth in South Korea and Vietnam

International cruise tourism is experiencing significant activity in East Asia. In South Korea, the Korea Tourism Organization reported that 1.28 million foreign passengers and crew arrived via cruise ships during the first eight months of 2026, a 12% increase compared to the previous year. Total annual arrivals are projected to exceed 2 million, surpassing the previous record of 1.6 million. Chinese nationals accounted for 57.7% of these visitors, with Jeju Island's Seogwipo port handling over half of the total arrivals.

In Vietnam, Quang Ninh province expects 24 international cruise ship arrivals at the Ha Long International Passenger Terminal during the fourth quarter of 2026. The schedule shows an increase in activity toward the end of the year, with 2 arrivals in October, 8 in November, and 14 in December. High-end vessels such as Viking Orion, Celebrity Millennium, and Diamond Princess are among those scheduled to visit. Each cruise is expected to carry between 600 and 3,000 passengers, contributing to the local tourism, shopping, and culinary sectors.