South Korea hit by China's 'limit Korea order'! Tourism industry takes a hit, travel costs to Korea may drop

By MOOK Scenic Spots / Tienma, compiled and reported

In the past, Korean celebrities frequently traveled to China for promotions, concerts, and fan meetings. Now, they can no longer do so, giving fans more opportunities to see them in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia. On April 29 in Taiwan, at the New Taipei City Xinzhuang Gymnasium, popular actor Gong Yoo held the 'Gong Yoo Taiwan Fan Meeting 2017: Make a Wish Concert' (ticket sales began March 25, 2017 at 11:00 via ibon ticketing [website and kiosks], ticket prices: NT$5500 / $4500 / $4000 / $3500 / $2500). Lee Dong-wook, who also starred in 'Goblin,' has seen a resurgence in popularity and launched a six-country, eight-city solo Asian fan meeting tour. In the future, Korean stars will have more opportunities to hold events in Taiwan, prompting Chinese fans to travel abroad to attend these meetups.

The impact of the limit Korea order remains most significant and noticeable on tourism-related businesses. South Korea’s largest duty-free store, Lotte Department Store, has borne the brunt. The Korea Tourism Organization also stated that this limit Korea order could lead to a massive reduction of up to 6 million Chinese visitors. Airlines have immediately responded by reducing flights to and from China. Hotel prices, airfares, and group tour fees are expected to become more affordable, and Taiwan tourists are encouraged to take advantage of this period to visit South Korea.