As global tourism sees a shift in trends, South Korea, alongside other destinations like Japan, France, and Spain, is experiencing a surge in visitors drawn to its vibrant culinary scene. With the rise of K-Food and K-Pop, Korea has become a global hub for culinary tourism, reaching new heights in 2025. This surge in visitors is further supported by recent updates to the country’s visa policies, making it easier for tourists to experience the dynamic food culture and the heart of the K-Pop revolution.
South Korea’s growing culinary tourism is not just about food but a unique cultural experience. In 2025, South Korea stands as one of the world’s premier food destinations, boasting 40 MICHELIN-starred restaurants, and attracting visitors from across the globe. From centuries-old fermentation practices to innovative plant-based cuisine, the country is at the forefront of global food movements.
The evolution of K-Food, combined with K-Pop’s global popularity, is pulling millions of tourists to South Korea. Not only are travelers experiencing world-class dining, but they are also becoming part of the cultural renaissance that is shaping the country’s tourism. The city of Hanam, which is emerging as the world capital of K-Pop, is also benefiting from this tourism boom, with local public transport ensuring easy access to Seoul, where many of the culinary adventures and K-Pop hubs are located.
The primary reason tourists are flocking to South Korea is its rich and diverse culinary landscape. According to a recent survey, 64% of travelers to South Korea indicated that food was their main reason for visiting. South Korea’s culinary journey is a blend of traditional and contemporary cuisine, with offerings ranging from fermented soybean-based sauces (jang-making) to temple food traditions that focus on sustainable, plant-based meals.
Seoul, already established as a global culinary destination, is seeing growth in its dining scene, with Busan poised to follow suit. The culinary revolution in South Korea, led by new styles of cuisine and unique offerings, highlights the country’s ability to merge rich food heritage with innovative approaches, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
This culinary tourism boom has been building momentum for several years, but the peak is expected to occur in 2025. The country’s recognition on the global stage as a culinary powerhouse, combined with the rise of K-Pop and South Korea’s involvement in global food trends, has helped solidify its position as a prime destination for international tourists. With recent visa updates, visitors will have greater access to the country, further fueling the increase in tourist numbers.
While Seoul remains the hub of South Korea’s culinary tourism, other cities like Busan are quickly establishing themselves as important food destinations. Hanam, with its growing K-Pop scene, also plays a significant role in attracting tourists interested in both music and food. These cities are interconnected through robust public transportation, making it easier for visitors to explore the full range of culinary and cultural experiences across the country.
South Korea’s updated visa policies are a significant factor in the rise of tourism to the country. With these changes, the visa process for travelers has been streamlined, making it easier for tourists from key markets to visit. This includes revisions to visa application processes, ensuring a smoother entry for tourists interested in exploring South Korea’s food culture and vibrant entertainment scene. These adjustments aim to capitalize on the global boom in culinary travel and ensure that South Korea remains accessible to tourists seeking both gastronomic and cultural experiences.
As the global culinary tourism market is expected to grow from $1.17 billion in 2025 to $3.77 billion by 2032, South Korea is poised to play a leading role in this expansion. Other countries like Japan, France, and Spain are also benefitting from similar trends, but South Korea’s unique blend of K-Food and K-Pop offers a compelling reason for travelers to visit. Whether it’s savoring traditional dishes, experimenting with new flavors, or immersing oneself in the K-Pop culture, South Korea’s tourism sector is set to continue growing in the years to come.
