China and South Korea see a tourism boom as visa-free travel drives cultural exploration, scenic escapes, and a surge in South Korean visitors seeking adventure.

China has emerged as a prime destination for short vacations among South Korean travelers, with a growing number opting to explore its rich cultural and natural attractions.

Seo Seo-ro, a 35-year-old tourist from South Korea, recently embarked on his first overseas trip with his parents, choosing China as their destination. Their journey led them to the breathtaking Changbai Mountain Scenic Area in Jilin province, a choice he described as unforgettable.

The family’s trip began with a two-hour flight from South Korea to Yanji, the capital of the Yanbian Korean autonomous prefecture in eastern Jilin. This region, known for its strong Korean ethnic influences, has become the most popular international travel spot in the province. From architecture to traditional performances and cuisine, visitors can experience a unique blend of Korean and Chinese cultures.

Since China introduced a transit visa-free policy for South Korean travelers in November, Yanbian has seen a significant surge in weekend visits. Official figures reveal that during this year’s Spring Festival holiday, Yanji Chaoyangchuan Airport recorded 13,000 inbound and outbound foreign travelers—a 14.7 percent increase from the previous year. Notably, South Korean tourists accounted for 88.1 percent of the total inbound visitors.

During their four-day visit, Seo and his family explored Tumen, where they relaxed in the city’s famous hot springs. They later ventured to Changbai Mountain, a year-round tourist attraction known for its snow-covered landscapes. One of the highlights of their trip was visiting the stunning volcanic lake at the mountain’s peak, which sits at an elevation of 2,189 meters. The family also indulged in local delicacies such as mutton kebabs and visited popular spots frequently featured on social media.

Zheng Xuefeng, a seasoned tour guide who has worked with South Korean visitors for over 15 years, noted that the visa-free policy has drastically simplified travel procedures. Previously, South Korean tourists needed at least 10 days to secure a visa, but now they can complete the process in just one day.

The travel boom has had a direct impact on the local economy. In 2024, travel agencies in the prefecture generated 280 million yuan ($40 million) in revenue, marking a 64 percent increase from the previous year. This surge has encouraged leading travel companies, such as Yanbian Chuntian International Travel Agency, to expand operations.

Winter tourism has been a key driver of this growth. Over the past season, the agency welcomed 2,500 South Korean tourists, a 50 percent increase compared to the previous winter.

Looking ahead, local authorities plan to further develop inbound tourism from South Korea and Russia. Investments are being channeled into the region’s cultural and tourism sectors, with new attractions such as Yanbian Tower and Bohai Ancient Town in the pipeline. Additionally, the prefecture aims to introduce fresh tourism experiences, including gourmet food tours, leisure sports events, camping, and picnicking, to attract more international visitors.

With improved travel policies and an expanding range of attractions, Yanbian is rapidly cementing its status as a top destination for South Korean tourists seeking cultural exploration and scenic beauty.

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