Digital travel platform Agoda today released its first “Korea’s New Horizons” list of fast rising destinations. The list, which compares year-on-year search data, highlights emerging destinations that have seen noteworthy growth in interest by travelers inside and outside of Korea.
Leading the pack are Daejeon and Jeongseon-gun, both boasting a 34% surge in searches, closely followed by Daegu at 30%, Incheon at 29% and Suwon, showcasing a remarkable 27% ascent.
“While established favorites like Seoul, Busan, and Jeju remain top favorites, we’ve seen a rise in interest for emerging destinations like Daejeon, Jeongseon, and Suwon. These charming cities offer unique experiences, reflecting a broader trend where travelers seek distinctive charm and hidden gems to create memorable moments. Our goal is to spotlight these cities, providing inspiration for those seeking novel travel experiences in 2024,” shared Lee Joonhwan, Country Director of South Korea at Agoda.
In double-lead were Daejeon and Jeongseon, both with a 34% increase in search traffic year on year. Daejeon is consistently growing in popularity as a gourmet destination. Daejeon offers the full package for a “bakery pilgrimage” with the presence of famous bakeries like Sungsimdang, along with an array of charming cafes. Daejeon blends tradition and modernity, making it a top choice in South Korean travel for culinary delights and unique experiences.
Located in the middle of the Taebaek mountainous areas in the Northeast of Gangwon province, Jeongseon is a sanctuary for wellness enthusiasts seeking to rejuvenate mind and body and offers the best of both immersion in nature and comforting high-end wellness resorts. Proximity to the healing forest of Romyzian Garden is a plus.
The warmest region in Korea, the city of Daegu, saw 30% growth in searches, thanks to its popularity as a destination to enjoy festivals and attractions all year long. Enjoy cherry blossoms and wild azaleas at the Mountain Biseulsan or numerous roads across Dageu in the Spring, the “Chicken & Beer (Chimaek)” festival in the summer, foliage appreciation in autumn and the light and musical fountain show at the Suseong Lake to celebrate Christmas in the winter.
The coastal city of Incheon is loved for its natural scenery and breathtaking sunsets at Eurwang-ri Beach, Wolmido and Oido Islands or lake parks such as in Chongna or Songdo. Boasting diverse culinary delights at spots like China Town, Sorea-Pogu Traditional Market, and Songwol-dong Village. It is no surprise that it grew in popularity with 29% more searches.
Rolling out the list of new rising destinations is Suwon, with a 27% rise in searches, owing to its close accessibility to Seoul of just 40km or a 30-minute train ride away. In addition to its traditional attractions such as the “King Jeongjo Royal Parade” festival that passes through the UNESCO World Heritage Site Hwaseong Fortress, Suwon is also popular for being the filming location of several famous K-dramas and home to the best hidden gem restaurants.
“Korea’s charms are as diverse as its landscape, and they are waiting to be discovered. It is great to see the increase in new destinations, which will provide new horizons of exploring Korea to domestic and foreign travelers alike. Agoda is thrilled to support travelers with some of the best deals and experiences from a range of holiday properties, flights and activities, making it easier for travelers to discover and book these emerging hidden gem destinations in the new year to come,” Lee Joonhwan concluded.
Not huge numbers so can we rank instead and just say top five destinations with biggest search increase?
