Korea Strengthens Its Presence in India: Roadshows and Rising Visitor Numbers Signal New Tourism Momentum
2026-03-22On 12 and 13 March 2026, the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) hosted impactful tourism roadshows in New Delhi and Mumbai, marking a significant step in strengthening its engagement with the Indian travel trade. These roadshows were not merely promotional events but strategic platforms aimed at deepening partnerships, introducing new initiatives, and reinforcing Korea’s growing appeal among Indian travellers.
Rising Numbers: India’s Growing Connection with Korea
The timing of these roadshows reflects a strong upward trend in tourism. In 2025, Korea welcomed close to 200,000 visitors from India, representing a notable 13% increase compared to the previous year. On a global scale, Korea recorded nearly 19 million international visitors, surpassing its annual targets and highlighting its rising position as a preferred global destination. This consistent growth underscores the increasing curiosity and connection Indian travellers have with Korea’s culture, experiences, and modern lifestyle.
Vision 2026: Strengthening the India–Korea Travel Corridor
Addressing the audience, Mr. Myong Kil Yun, Regional Director for India and SAARC Countries at KTO, emphasized the importance of India as a high-potential market. He highlighted that Korea is not only witnessing growing interest but is also actively investing in long-term collaboration with Indian travel partners. With a clear vision ahead, KTO aims to welcome approximately 270,000 Indian visitors in 2026, further strengthening this upward trajectory.
New Initiatives: Empowering Travel Partners
A key highlight of the roadshows was the introduction of two major trade-focused initiatives designed for 2026. The Korea Premium Travel Consultant (KPTC) program and the K-Incentive Scheme 4.0 were presented as powerful tools to empower travel agents and elevate the quality of Korea-focused travel offerings in India.
K-Incentive Scheme 4.0: Expanding Beyond Seoul
The K-Incentive Scheme 4.0 is designed to encourage travel agencies to create more immersive and regionally diverse travel packages. Instead of limiting itineraries to Seoul, agencies are encouraged to include destinations such as Busan, Gangwon-do, Jeollanam-do, and Gyeongju. This initiative reflects Korea’s intention to promote a deeper exploration of its cultural and geographical diversity. Agencies participating in the program are required to submit detailed proposals, outlining their itineraries and promotional strategies. Selected partners benefit from visa facilitation, marketing support, and performance-based incentives, with top-performing agencies receiving recognition for their contributions.
Korea Premium Travel Consultant (KPTC): Elevating Luxury Travel
Complementing this initiative is the Korea Premium Travel Consultant (KPTC) program, which focuses on elevating the standard of luxury travel experiences. This certification-based program offers structured training sessions that equip travel agents with in-depth knowledge of Korea’s premium offerings. From luxury accommodations to exclusive cultural experiences, the program enables agents to design high-end itineraries tailored to discerning travellers. The first webinar for this program is scheduled for 23 March 2026, marking the beginning of a new phase in premium Korea travel promotion.
Beyond Promotion: Building a Stronger Ecosystem
These initiatives reflect a broader strategy by KTO to move beyond traditional tourism promotion and towards building a more collaborative, knowledge-driven ecosystem with travel partners. By focusing on both incentive-driven travel and premium experiences, Korea is positioning itself as a destination that caters to a wide spectrum of travellers, from corporate groups to luxury explorers.
Strengthening Industry Connections
The roadshows in Delhi and Mumbai also served as important networking platforms, allowing travel professionals to directly engage with Korean tourism stakeholders, understand new opportunities, and explore potential collaborations. This direct interaction strengthens trust and ensures that travel agents are better equipped to promote Korea with confidence and authenticity.
The Road Ahead: Korea as a Preferred Destination
As Korea continues to expand its presence in the Indian market, these efforts signal a clear shift towards long-term engagement, quality-driven tourism, and experiential travel. With strong government support, innovative programs, and a growing demand from Indian travellers, Korea is not just emerging as a destination of interest but as a preferred choice for future travel.
The momentum is clear. Korea is not only welcoming more Indian visitors but is also building a stronger, more meaningful connection with the Indian travel ecosystem, one partnership, one experience, and one journey at a time.
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