February 10, 2025 | Press Release

The allure of South Korea as a prime travel destination for Indian tourists has soared dramatically, with a remarkable 44% increase in arrivals from India in 2024. This growth, marked by 176,668 Indian visitors last year, set the stage for the Korea Tourism Roadshow held in Delhi on February 6, 2025. Organised by the Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO) in collaboration with the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), the event brought together travel industry leaders to explore innovative ways to further boost Indian tourism to South Korea.

Strengthening Trade Ties with Innovative Programs
The roadshow served as a platform for KTO to introduce key trade-centric initiatives aimed at facilitating seamless travel and enhancing the experiences of Indian tourists. Among the highlights was the Korea Premium Travel Consultant (KPTC) program, designed to certify travel agents specialising in high-end South Korean travel experiences. The program offers structured training, access to exclusive resources, and rewards for top-performing agents, empowering them to create curated luxury itineraries.

Other initiatives showcased at the event included the K-Incentive Scheme 3.0, which offers financial rewards to agents promoting South Korea-bound travel, and KTO’s MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) support programs, which streamline visa processes and provide financial incentives for corporate groups.

Vision for 2025: Targeting 250,000 Indian Visitors
Speaking at the event, Myong Kil Yun, Regional Director – India & SAARC Countries, KTO, underscored India’s significance as a key market for South Korean tourism. “India continues to be a priority market for us, and the 44% growth in arrivals is a testament to the growing interest in South Korea. Our goal for 2025 is to welcome 18.5 million global visitors, including 250,000 from India. With programs like KPTC and K-Incentive Scheme 3.0, we aim to equip our partners with valuable resources to position South Korea as a must-visit destination,” he stated.

Rajan Sehgal, Chairman – Public Relations Council & Member Managing Committee, TAAI, echoed this sentiment, expressing confidence in the potential for further growth. “Through this roadshow, TAAI has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting KTO’s vision. The insights and incentives presented at the event will enable travel agents to enhance their expertise and better promote South Korea among Indian travellers,” he added.

Exclusive Opportunities for Travel Agents
The KPTC program, one of the most anticipated announcements at the roadshow, offers an in-depth certification process for travel agents aiming to specialise in premium South Korean travel. Participants must attend at least three of four specialised training sessions between February and March 2025. Certified agents will then be eligible for exclusive rewards based on the number of travellers they book for South Korea between April and December 2025, provided the package meets the program’s criteria, including a minimum one-night stay in a four-star or higher property.

The first KPTC webinar is set to take place on February 28, 2025, opening new doors for agents to tap into the growing demand for luxury experiences in South Korea.

Boosting Business and Leisure Travel
KTO’s commitment to attracting Indian travellers extends beyond leisure tourism. The organisation’s MICE support programs offer corporate groups streamlined visa processing, financial aid for preliminary visits, and incentives for large incentive groups, reinforcing South Korea’s appeal as a premier business travel destination.

With a strategic vision focused on deepening trade relationships and enhancing travel experiences, KTO remains steadfast in its mission to make South Korea more accessible and enticing for Indian travellers. As tourism between the two nations continues to flourish, the roadshow in Delhi has set a strong precedent for a dynamic and thriving partnership in 2025 and beyond.