KOREA
WISE CHOICE Korea C M Y CM MY CY CMY K
Its capital city, Seoul, has long been a popular stopover destination, but a growing UK market is now discovering Korea’s wider appeal, says Andy Hoskins
but, with its attractive mix of the ancient and modern, wonderful landscapes and unique cuisine it's perfect for those coming back to the continent for more. Although the Korean peninsula’s heritage dates back some 5,000 years, it was the more recent Korean War that came to define it as two nations – North Korea and South Korea, as they are best known. Today, some 60 years on, the latter has established itself as an economic powerhouse and its capital, Seoul, is a popular stopover destination. In recent years, increasing numbers
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of travellers are also discovering the country’s many charms beyond the capital, and that includes the UK market which delivered 105,000 visitors in 2011 and was up 5.5% in
58 September 2012 •
www.sellinglonghaul.com
orea might not be the obvious choice for many first-time visitors to Asia
the first half of 2012. The Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO) in London attributes this growth to greater media exposure and more product choice for the consumer, while increased airlift is a further reason for optimism. Seoul is the gateway to the country and most visitors will spend at least a couple of days here discovering the contrasts of a towering, futuristic skyline that towers over ornate temples and palaces. Among the jewels awaiting visitors
is Gyeongbokgung, the most prestigious of the five grand palaces of the Joseon dynasty, and the Jongmyo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For shopping and dining, direct clients to the Namdaemun and Dongdaemun markets, or the Insadong and Itaewon areas. A popular day trip from the
capital is to the Demilitarised Zone
(DMZ) on the border between North and South Korea. It’s an intriguing experience that offers an insight into the relationship between the two nations. In the south east of the country, the ancient capital of Gyeongju, with its temples, pagodas and royal tombs, features on many itineraries, as does Busan. A little further south, this interesting port city offers access to beach resorts, hosts several major festivals – including the International Fireworks Festival and the Busan International Film Festival – and lays claim to the world’s largest department store. Further south still is Jeju, a volcanic island 130km off the Korean peninsula. The island is famous for its sandy beaches, stone statues and three geological features that last year helped earn its place on the list of New 7 Wonders of the World:
Hallasan Mountain, Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, and the Geomunoreum lava tube system. Korea’s other natural highlights include the Baekdudaegan mountains, Songnisan National Park, the Suncheon Bay ecological wetlands and the rolling hills of Boseong. With such fascinating culture and landscapes, opportunities abound for agents to sell unusual experiences such as temple and Hanok stays (in traditional houses), taekwondo lessons, or courses that explore Korea’s distinctive culinary traditions. Health and wellbeing-themed stays
are also growing in popularity, while some 20 national parks present beautiful landscapes for hiking, walking and climbing excursions. In addition, the KTO is embracing niche markets such as luxury tourism – under the banner of ‘Recharge your energy in Korea’ –
©KTO
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