According to the Korea Tourism Organisation in Vietnam, around 167,000 Vietnamese visited South Korea in the first quarter, up 29.6 per cent year on year. The MICE segment also grew, with 5,485 visitors, an increase of 21.75 per cent.
Travel firms said the surge is supported by relaxed visa policies and expanded direct flight connections, making travel more accessible.
Airfares have risen sharply. Return tickets from Hanoi to South Korea are priced at VND 12 to 13 million (approximately USD 470 to 510) with Vietjet Air in May, while other carriers charge VND 14 to 18 million (approximately USD 550 to 710). Summer fares are expected to remain high at around VND 17 to 20 million (approximately USD 670 to 790), up roughly VND 4 to 5 million year on year.
Package tours are priced at VND 18 to 20 million (approximately USD 710 to 790) per person and have remained relatively stable, as operators secured flights and accommodation months in advance. However, industry representatives warned that further fuel price increases could raise costs for new bookings and weigh on demand.
Despite higher prices, demand remains strong, particularly during the peak cherry blossom season in March and April, with many travellers still willing to spend on overseas trips.
South Korea has also introduced more favourable visa policies, including 10-year multiple entry visas for Vietnamese citizens residing in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Danang from March 30, further supporting demand.
Tourism authorities have stepped up support for travel firms, including marketing assistance and incentives, while destinations are intensifying promotion efforts to attract Vietnamese visitors.
Industry insiders said Vietnam remains a key outbound market, driven by rapid economic growth, rising incomes and strong tourism and cultural ties between the two countries.