In a remarkable milestone that underscores its status as a top destination in Southeast Asia, Da Nang officially welcomed its one-millionth South Korean tourist in 2025. The celebration, held on August 1 at Bien Dong Park in Son Tra District, marked a symbolic moment in the city’s tourism resurgence and reinforced the enduring friendship between Vietnam and South Korea.
The festive event, organized by Da Nang’s Department of Tourism in partnership with the Korean Embassy in Vietnam, honored not just the one-millionth guest, but also the 999,999th and 1,000,001st visitors. All three South Korean travelers were welcomed with floral garlands, cultural gifts, round-trip airline tickets, and customized guided tour packages — a heartfelt tribute to the loyal travelers who have helped boost Da Nang’s international tourism profile.
Da Nang’s Mayor, local tourism leaders, and Korean dignitaries attended the event, where traditional Vietnamese music and dance performances set a celebratory tone. In addition, seven other Korean tourists arriving the same day were also greeted with gifts and promotional service vouchers, symbolizing the city’s inclusive spirit and gratitude toward its growing Korean visitor base.
Korean Tourist Appreciation Week 2025: August 1–8
To mark the milestone, Da Nang launched “Korean Tourist Appreciation Week 2025,” a dedicated week-long initiative running from August 1 to 8. The campaign features a suite of exclusive experiences for Korean travelers, including:
- Welcome Gifts at Arrival Gates: All Korean visitors landing at Da Nang International Airport during the week receive traditional souvenirs such as non la (conical hats), silk scarves, and artisan lanterns.
- Hotel & Restaurant Promotions: Participating establishments are offering up to 30% discounts on room bookings, complimentary spa services, and special menus with Korean-language translations.
- Cultural Activities: The city is hosting interactive events across key locations, including Vietnamese cooking classes, lantern-making workshops, and performances at the Museum of Cham Sculpture and Han River waterfront.
- Language Support: Korean-speaking guides and interpretation services have been expanded at major tourist sites and public transport hubs throughout the city.
According to Da Nang’s Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, this initiative reflects the city’s strategic efforts to personalize travel experiences and foster long-term loyalty among Korean travelers — now the largest inbound international market for Da Nang.
South Korea–Vietnam Travel Ties Strengthen
South Korean tourist arrivals to Vietnam, particularly to Da Nang, have grown steadily since 2015. Even in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, Da Nang has remained a preferred destination thanks to its pristine beaches, affordability, rich cultural heritage, and enhanced air connectivity.
Currently, Da Nang is directly connected to Seoul, Busan, and Daegu through more than 100 weekly flights operated by carriers such as Korean Air, VietJet Air, Jin Air, and T’way Air. In 2025, several additional seasonal flights were added to meet peak summer demand, reflecting surging interest among South Korean leisure travelers and honeymooners.
The General Statistics Office of Vietnam reported that Da Nang welcomed over 3 million international arrivals in the first half of 2025 — with South Koreans accounting for nearly 35% of the total. Many attribute this success to Da Nang’s visitor-friendly infrastructure, beachfront resorts, and a high level of service customization for Korean-speaking guests.
City Enhancements for Korean Visitors
In recent years, Da Nang has tailored many of its services to cater to Korean preferences. Major hotels and resorts now provide Korean TV channels, in-room kimchi options, and staff trained in Korean language. Travel operators have introduced bilingual brochures, curated wellness retreats, and romantic itinerary packages for Korean couples and families.
The city’s urban development has also focused on enhancing walkability, beachfront amenities, and cultural immersion experiences. From My Khe Beach to the Marble Mountains and Ba Na Hills, Da Nang’s mix of natural beauty and cultural authenticity continues to attract repeat Korean visitors.
Government Statements and Outlook
Speaking at the celebration, Mr. Nguyen Duc Vu, Director of the Da Nang Tourism Promotion Center, highlighted that surpassing the one-millionth Korean visitor mark is not merely a numerical achievement but a testament to the strength of bilateral cultural ties and shared tourism goals.
“This historic moment affirms Da Nang’s position as a beloved destination for Korean tourists. It also represents our commitment to deepening friendship through tourism, cultural understanding, and world-class hospitality,” Vu said.
Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that Da Nang serves as a model for sustainable tourism development and international outreach. The Korean Tourism Organization (KTO) in Vietnam also praised Da Nang’s efforts in cultural diplomacy and immersive travel programming.
Tourism Recovery and Global Visibility
This celebration symbolizes a broader post-pandemic tourism recovery in Vietnam. Da Nang’s tourism authorities have strategically leveraged digital marketing campaigns in Korea, launched co-branded promotions with Korean travel agencies, and prioritized feedback from Korean visitors to improve services.
As of mid-2025, Da Nang is also actively bidding to host international cultural festivals, including Korean pop culture and film events, which further enhance its visibility as a multicultural urban destination in Southeast Asia.
With the success of “Korean Tourist Appreciation Week” and the symbolic arrival of its one-millionth South Korean traveler, Da Nang solidifies its reputation as more than just a coastal city. It is a dynamic cultural destination where Vietnamese hospitality meets international enthusiasm — a city where meaningful travel memories are made and celebrated.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
