EconoScope | Visa-free policy draws international tourists to explore China

(ECNS) -- Flying to Shanghai for weekend getaways has become the latest trend among South Korean youth. Long lines at Shanghai Disneyland and citywalk routes bustling with South Korean visitors reflect the growing popularity of the destinations.

According to local customs, over 130,000 South Korean passengers passed through Shanghai Pudong International Airport in December 2024.

Feng Ling, a professor at the School of Tourism Sciences of Beijing International Studies University pointed out that China’s visa-free policy fuels South Korean youth’s enthusiasm for “China Travel.”

Since Nov. 8, 2024, China has expanded its list of visa-free countries, including South Korea. The visa-free stay duration has also been extended to 30 days.

According to South Korea’s SBS television, the visa-free policy has led to a surge in travel bookings to China. A South Korean travel agency reported a 75 percent month-on-month increase in bookings for trips to China from Nov. 1 to 21, 2024, with orders for Shanghai tours soaring by 178 percent.

A large influx of South Koreans into Chinese cities has not only invigorated the tourism market but also enhanced the image of these localities.

Feng said that some South Koreans have held stereotypical views about China and that traveling to China can help change some of these biases, which is beneficial for urban promotion and cultural exchange.

As visa, customs clearance, payment, accommodation, and transportation services for inbound tourism continue to improve. “China Travel” has become a buzzword on social media. The growing influx of foreign tourists not only highlights the country’s appeal but also tests the governance and management wisdom of Chinese cities.

Feng believes that inbound tourism requires meticulous, detailed efforts. For example, offering more convenient information services and providing multilingual support in more locations could better accommodate the needs of foreign tourists.

According to the Travel & Tourism Economic Impact 2024: Global Trends published by the World Travel & Tourism Council, China has become the world’s second-largest tourism market. Over the next decade, China is expected to surpass the United States to become the largest tourism market globally.

China continues to enhance its tourism products and services to create better travel experiences, which not only boosts the tourism industry but showcases its commitment to high-level opening up. The popular “China Travel” is helping the world discover a more authentic and admirable country.