South Korean Tourists Boost Chiang Mai's Recovery

[snoop1130]

File photo for reference only

 

Chiang Mai is experiencing a tourism shift with South Korea emerging as a top market, potentially surpassing China in visitor numbers this year. This change comes as more direct flights and favorable winter conditions attract South Korean tourists, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

 

Patsalin Swetarat from TAT’s Chiang Mai office noted that while Chinese arrivals haven’t drastically declined, slow post-pandemic recovery and safety concerns have hindered their travel. In contrast, January 2025 saw 34,954 South Koreans visiting Chiang Mai, slightly above 34,894 Chinese visitors.

 

The province is adapting by targeting promising markets like South Korea. Upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations are expected to see an 82% hotel occupancy, bringing in 686 million baht (US$20 million). Of that, 463 million baht (US$13.6 million) will come from international tourists.

 

 

In 2024, Chinese tourists led with 326,651 arrivals, but South Koreans were close behind with 283,681. Other markets included Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. Direct flights are pivotal for Chiang Mai's tourism growth, with efforts to increase flights from India.

 

International tourists make up 30% of Chiang Mai’s visitors. The extended cool weather and lower pollution levels have boosted local tourism since late 2024. The only setback was an October 2024 flood.

 

Airbnb reported South Korea as the top inbound market in Chiang Mai for two quarters in 2024, with a 50% booking increase over 2023. There is also rising interest from the Asia-Pacific region, especially from Japanese and Indian tourists, predicting continued growth into 2025.

 

-- 2025-01-28

 

 

[hotchilli]

China came, they saw, they tasted, they smelt, they didn't return.

Now it's Korea's turn.

[chuang]

You returned...🙃