The South China Morning Post reported on the 27th that the rise in visits by South Korean tourists and content creators has coincided with China’s eased visa policies and a steadier trend in South Korea-China ties.
China has allowed South Koreans to stay visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism, business and family visits since 2024, the report said. The measure was extended in November last year, reducing what had been a major barrier for short trips.
Geographic proximity and a calmer diplomatic climate have also supported more people-to-people exchanges. About 3.16 million South Koreans visited China last year, up 36.9% from the previous year. In January this year, more than 300,000 visited, a 48% increase from a year earlier.
Destinations are also broadening beyond traditional choices, with Shanghai, Shenzhen in Guangdong province, Chengdu in Sichuan province and Zhangjiajie in Hunan province drawing attention, the report said.
The increase has been especially notable among online content creators. They have highlighted China’s mobile payment systems, high-speed rail and relatively low prices, presenting scenes that differ from some existing perceptions.
SCMP said creators have documented street food, advanced technology and large-scale infrastructure, while also comparing similarities and differences with South Korea.
A YouTuber based in China was quoted as saying, “Since the visa waiver, visits to China by Korean creators have noticeably increased,” adding that China-related content is drawing strong interest on South Korean platforms.
SCMP said the trend has also aligned with a period of more stable ties. It cited continued high-level exchanges, including President Lee Jae-myung’s visit to China in January, as helping create momentum for expanded economic and cultural cooperation.
China has expanded visa-free entry policies since the COVID-19 pandemic to attract more foreign visitors. Seventy-nine countries are currently eligible for visa-free entry, including 50 granted the benefit unilaterally by China.
According to China’s National Immigration Administration, 30.08 million people entered visa-free last year, accounting for 73.1% of all foreign arrivals.
SCMP said the policy is not only boosting tourism but also producing a “soft power” effect by improving perceptions of China.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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