Phu Quoc is the “it” destination among South Korean tourists during the Mid-Autumn golden week

According to Chosun Ilbo, Vietnam is emerging as a favored overseas destination for South Korean tourists, especially during the Chuseok holiday from October 3 to 9. Citing a survey by the global flight booking platform Skyscanner, the newspaper reported that Vietnam accounted for 13.2% of selections, ranking second after Japan and serving as a leading representative of Southeast Asian tourism.

South Korean visitors mesmerized by the Guinness World Record-breaking show – Kiss of the Sea

Notably, 65% of survey respondents stated that they only spend part of the holiday traveling, reserving the rest for rest before returning to work. Therefore, nearby destinations with short 3–5 hour flights, such as Vietnam, offering affordable costs and comprehensive vacation experiences, have become the top choice for South Korean travelers.

Among the Vietnamese destinations attracting South Koreans, Phu Quoc continues to appeal thanks to its modern, diverse tourism ecosystem and stunning beaches. According to Agoda, Phu Quoc is currently the second most popular destination for South Korean tourists in Vietnam, after Nha Trang, and ranks third among the top vacation spots for Chinese tourists.

Pristine beauty of Phu Quoc wins the hearts of South Korean tourists

Thanks to short flight distances and high frequency, traveling to Phu Quoc during Chuseok has never been easier. According to data from Phu Quoc International Airport, five airlines currently operate direct flights from Seoul and Busan to Phu Quoc, averaging 7–8 flights per day. In particular, the Korean economic newspaper Maeil Business reported that Eastar Jet will add a total of 126 flights during this holiday period, increasing the Busan – Phu Quoc route frequency from 2–4 flights per week to 6 flights per week. Convenient air connections, combined with the island’s diverse, modern tourism ecosystem, continue to make Phu Quoc an unmissable destination for South Korean travelers this festival season.

South Korean tourists are drawn to Phu Quoc not only for the beauty of a “tropical paradise” with mild weather, year-round sunshine, blue seas, and creamy white sand but also for its upscale entertainment and resort ecosystem. Recently, a Yonhap journalist – one of South Korea’s most reputable news agencies – praised Phu Quoc for its romantic scenery and modern, ideal entertainment-tourism ecosystem after visiting the island. She noted: “At its current development pace, it’s only a matter of time before Phu Quoc becomes a global destination.” 

South Korean visitors immerse themselves in the street performances at Vui-Fest Bazaar

According to Yonhap, a highlight of Phu Quoc is Sunset Town, where visitors can check in at colorful Mediterranean-style houses and streets, stroll along the Love Bridge at sunset, enjoy the Guinness World Record-holding multimedia show Kiss of the Sea, explore local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of the Vui-Fest Bazaar.

One experience especially loved by South Korean tourists is the world’s longest three-cable gondola to Hon Thom Island. This nearly 20-minute journey offers panoramic views of the deep blue ocean, colorful fishing boats at anchor, and the small islands scattered offshore. According to Sun World Hon Thom, four out of every ten South Korean visitors to Phu Quoc choose to ride the Hon Thom cable car, clearly demonstrating the appeal of this unique experience.

Record-breaking Hon Thom cable car becomes a memorable experience for South Korean visitors

Beyond entertainment experiences, South Korean tourists are also captivated by the island’s dreamlike beachfront hotels and resorts – a key factor they seek when traveling abroad. Phu Quoc’s premium resort ecosystem, featuring international brands such as JW Marriott Phu Quoc, La Festa Phu Quoc – Curio Collection by Hilton, New World Phu Quoc, Premier Village Phu Quoc, and Premier Residences Phu Quoc, offers diverse options for families, groups of friends, and couples seeking private retreats.

New World Phu Quoc captivates South Korean visitors with its luxurious design

With its natural beauty and diverse experiences, Phu Quoc is expected to attract even more South Korean travelers in the future. Statistics from Phu Quoc International Airport show that in the first six months of 2025, the island welcomed nearly 280,000 South Korean tourists, a rise of over 35% compared to the same period last year. Following the Chuseok holiday, the number of South Korean visitors is expected to continue growing strongly, reinforcing Phu Quoc’s status as a leading tourism “hotspot” in the region.