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The city government said Wednesday it would develop more programs illustrating Korea’s history, K-pop and fashion.
The SMG operates 41 programs for foreign visitors. But a recent survey showed that tourists differ from one country to another ― certain tours that are popular among Chinese tourists are not favored by Japanese visitors.
For example, Chinese visitors tend to visit the city in big groups and are interested in shopping and food, while many Japanese tourists come in smaller groups and are more inclined toward K-pop and Korean drama.
Most tourists from North America and Southeast Asia visited Korea to experience its traditional culture and festivals, the SMG said.
The city government said an increasing number of tourists wanted to learn more about Korea by visiting places such as its history museum of modern architecture.
Firstly, city administrators will develop specific programs based on culture and arts, industries and shopping, towns and alleys, nature and the environment and theme tours.
The SMG plans to add some of the city’s significant sites, including the Seoul Anglican Cathedral, Seoul City Wall and Ihwa Mural Village, to its programs.
More marketing is also in the pipeline. “We will be more active in promoting the city via local media,” an SMG official said.
In 2013, about 10.04 million foreign visitors ― a record ― travelled to Seoul, up 9.3 percent on 2012. Chinese made up the largest group.
Over the years, visitor sightseeing preferences have changed. While spots such as Namdaemun and Dongdaemun saw a drop in visitors, new tourist locations, including areas of Hongdae, Samcheong-dong and Cheong Wa Dae, have gained popularity.