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The Korea Tourism Organization reported a tourism surplus of $596.6 million for June, representing a major improvement over the $846.8 million deficit in June 2025. This result stands as the second highest monthly surplus since October 2008, when the balance reached $661.5 million. The positive outcome reflects ongoing recovery in the sector, which had been severely impacted by the global health crisis. Industry analysts point to increased foreign arrivals as a primary driver.
South Korea experienced tourism deficits for 72 consecutive months from March 2020 as the COVID-19 pandemic restricted international movement, according to the organization. The account first returned to surplus in March 2026 and has maintained that position through the second quarter. Such a prolonged period of negative balances had not been seen in recent decades prior to the health emergency.
Revenue generated by the tourism industry totaled $2.78 billion in June with each foreign visitor spending an average of $1,397, the data showed. These inflows significantly outpaced the spending by South Korean residents traveling abroad. The net positive balance contributes to broader economic stability and foreign exchange reserves.
Hanyang University professor Kim Nam-jo attributed the success to the country’s heightened global reputation. “This is due to South Korea’s international image reaching an all-time high across various fields — from K-pop to our popular culture and cuisine,” he said. Kim highlighted how cultural exports have translated into tangible economic gains through tourism.
The professor urged authorities to adjust tourism strategies by promoting destinations in smaller cities and rural areas instead of focusing primarily on Seoul and Busan. This redistribution could help sustain visitor interest and prevent overcrowding in major hubs. Long-term policy shifts of this nature would support consistent surpluses in the travel account, he added.
A related Yonhap report found that foreign spending represented 1.17 percent of South Korea’s GDP in 2025, underscoring the sector’s growing importance. The June data builds on earlier positive figures, with the Korea JoongAng Daily reporting a $220.5 million surplus for May. Continued momentum in cultural promotion is expected to further strengthen the balance in coming months.
