South Korea boosts summer tourism with coastal events and travel discounts

The Busan Metropolitan City government launched an August marine‑leisure program that runs across Dadaepo, Gwangalli and Haeundae beaches. The initiative offers surfing, wind‑surfing, paddle‑boarding, yacht trips and motor‑boat cruises, with certified instructors, equipment rentals and additional maritime‑police patrols to ensure safety. The schedule also includes beach rowing competitions and educational forums aimed at expanding the local marine‑leisure industry and supporting small businesses in the coastal districts.

The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) announced a series of summer travel discounts funded through the government‑backed worker vacation support program. Participants contribute 200,000 won, while employers and the state each add 100,000 won, creating a 400,000‑won travel fund usable on accommodations, admission tickets and tour packages. Discounts of up to 50 percent (capped at 50,000 won) are offered for destinations in North Jeolla Province, family‑oriented trips nationwide, wellness facilities, and water‑park admissions, encouraging domestic tourism throughout the summer.