Korea Tourism Organization launches regional travel campaign

The Korea Tourism Organization has launched the ‘Unlock Your Korea: Go Local’ campaign, running from October 7 to December 13, to improve travel convenience for foreign tourists visiting regional areas.

Focusing on gateway cities near Cheongju, Daegu, and Gimhae airports, as well as Incheon, Pyeongtaek, and Gunsan ports, the initiative aims to reduce friction in transportation, payments, and accommodation. Key measures include expanding mobile easy-payment and tax-refund infrastructure in traditional markets and local shops.

In partnership with the foreign-exclusive payment platform WOWPASS, a promotion offers a 2,000 won instant payback for transactions over 10,000 won at local businesses, capped at 12,000 won per person. Additionally, a ‘K-Tour Pass’ will debut in Busan, providing discounts on airport express trains and free admission to one of 35 major tourist attractions.

The campaign also seeks to enhance multilingual support through the 1330 tourist interpretation service and promote regional food festivals, such as the Daegu Tteokbokki Festival and Gimcheon Gimbap Festival, through global travel agencies.