Recent data from Yanolja Research indicates that the average Korean tourist spends around US$971 per overseas trip. Limited holiday time combined with this budget has fueled the rise of “micro-trips”—destinations that maximize experience while minimising travel time and cost.

Vietnam has emerged as a leading choice for these travelers. In 2025, more than 4.3 million Koreans visited the Southeast Asian nation, out of nearly 29.6 million traveling abroad, surpassing regional competitors like Thailand, Singapore, and the Philippines.

Its appeal lies in a balance of convenient travel - flights of around five hours - and high-quality experiences at competitive prices. Destinations such as Da Nang and Phu Quoc allow visitors to enjoy premium international experiences without the financial and time burdens of long-haul journeys.

While Da Nang is a perennial favourite, Phu Quoc is rapidly ascending the ranks. Booking data reveals that searches for the island destination in southern Vietnam surged by 71% between late 2025 and early 2026. This growth is supported by a robust investment in modern coastal infrastructure, including Sunset Town, Santo Port, and the record-breaking Hon Thom cable car.

In addition, the 30-day visa exemption for international tourists visiting Phu Quoc has significantly lowered the barrier to entry, making spontaneous trips much easier for Korean citizens.

Besides, the aviation sector is expanding to meet this demand. Sun PhuQuoc Airways is set to launch a direct route from Seoul in April 2026, with a Busan route following in September 2026.

By combining accessibility, quality experiences, and economic value, Vietnam is poised to remain a key destination for the Republic of Korea’s outbound travel market in the coming years.

Vietnam to outpace Thailand as top destination for Korean tourists

VOV.VN - Vietnam is expected to strengthen its position as one of the most popular overseas destinations for Korean travellers in 2026, outperforming regional rival Thailand in both visitor numbers and growth momentum, according to a new outlook by Yanolja Research in the Republic of Korea (RoK).