Da Nang, the vibrant coastal city of Central Vietnam, has officially secured its place on the global tourism map by becoming the only Vietnamese city to break into the Top 5 global summer destinations for South Korean tourists in 2025, as reported by Tripbtoz, a leading South Korean travel platform. Based on over 32,000 travel queries and bookings, this achievement marks a historic first for Vietnam’s tourism industry.
Joining travel powerhouses like Tokyo, Sapporo, and Paris, Da Nang’s leap into the elite ranks is attributed to its affordable travel packages, stunning beaches, cultural depth, and modern urban offerings that resonate strongly with South Korean travelers—especially younger tourists and families seeking experiential getaways.
Youth-Led Travel Boom from South Korea
According to Chosun Ilbo, one of South Korea’s leading newspapers, Da Nang has seen a significant increase in popularity among Korean travelers in their 20s and 30s. As travel behaviors evolve post-pandemic, young Koreans are favoring immersive, meaningful, and cost-effective holidays over mainstream luxury escapes.
For these adventurers, Da Nang offers an irresistible combination: white sand beaches, a vibrant street food scene, historic relics, modern resorts, and easy flight access from Seoul, Busan, and Incheon.
Must-See Attractions That Cater to Korean Tastes
At the heart of Da Nang’s appeal is its diverse and accessible tourism landscape. A prime draw for visitors is My Khe Beach, a stretch of soft white sand repeatedly named among Asia’s best beaches. Just an hour’s drive inland lies Sun World Ba Na Hills, a European-style mountaintop resort featuring cobbled streets, cable cars, and the now-iconic Golden Bridge, held aloft by sculpted stone hands.
Data from Sun World revealed that nearly 500,000 South Koreans visited Ba Na Hills in the first six months of 2025 alone—underscoring the park’s dominant appeal. Other top experiences include:
- Dragon Bridge: A fire-breathing bridge that comes alive every weekend.
- Han Market: A bustling shopping hub for local products and souvenirs.
- Love Bridge: A romantic spot for couples to lock in their love overlooking the Han River.
Upscale Comfort Meets Coastal Vibes
Da Nang’s hospitality infrastructure has grown rapidly in the last decade. Today, it caters to all traveler segments—from budget backpackers to luxury seekers. Top accommodations popular among Korean tourists include:
- Premier Village Danang Resort – Ideal for family travelers seeking privacy and beachfront views.
- Novotel Danang Premier Han River – Centrally located with panoramic skyline views.
- InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort – A five-star escape nestled on the pristine Son Tra Peninsula, known for its private beaches and forested surroundings.
According to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT), Da Nang’s diverse offerings make it an ideal destination for multi-generational travel—a growing segment in the South Korean market.
Golf and Culinary Tourism on the Rise
In 2025, golf tourism has emerged as a major driver for South Korean travelers. Da Nang is home to several championship-level golf courses, most notably the Ba Na Hills Golf Club, designed by former world No.1 golfer Luke Donald. Surrounded by mountains and forests, the course offers a world-class golfing experience just 30 minutes from downtown.
Meanwhile, the city’s culinary delights continue to win over hearts and palates. Korean visitors enjoy exploring local dishes such as:
- Mi Quang (turmeric noodles with pork and shrimp)
- Banh Xeo (crispy rice pancakes)
- Fresh seafood BBQs served at open-air night markets
Da Nang’s cuisine balances spice, freshness, and affordability—key attributes that appeal to younger Korean travelers.
Exclusive Promotions for Returning Korean Visitors
In recognition of its most loyal travelers, Sun World Ba Na Hills has launched a limited-time reward campaign for repeat South Korean visitors, running from August to December 2025. The package includes:
- A free WOW Pass Silver for skip-the-line access
- A complimentary buffet lunch voucher worth up to 380,000 VND (approx. $15 USD)
Eligibility requires proof of at least two arrivals via Da Nang International Airport since 2020. This “New Ba Na – New Experiences” initiative underscores Da Nang’s commitment to personalized service and customer appreciation.
Visitor Numbers Reflect Unprecedented Growth
According to Da Nang’s Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, the city welcomed 2.27 million South Korean tourists in just the first half of 2025—an increase of 147% year-on-year. This surge helped propel Vietnam to second place in Kyowon Tour Travel Easy’s rankings of most popular overseas destinations for Korean families, ahead of Singapore and Thailand.
A Proud Moment for Vietnam’s Tourism Future
Da Nang’s milestone is more than just a statistical triumph—it’s a reflection of the city’s deliberate investment in infrastructure, sustainability, and international branding. As the city continues to expand flight connectivity and diversify tourism offerings, it is fast becoming a regional tourism hub not just for Korea, but for all of Northeast Asia.
With its perfect blend of affordability, natural beauty, and cultural depth, Da Nang is not just a travel destination—it’s an experience that keeps Korean travelers coming back year after year.
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