Foreign Arrivals Top 10 Million for First Half, as Won Stays Weak
If you've been weighing a trip to Korea on a tight budget, the numbers suggest this is a reasonable time to go. According to data released by Korea's Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on July 31, 10.71 million foreign tourists visited Korea in the first half of 2026 (January-June) — the first time the first-half figure has topped 10 million.
Over the same period, foreign card spending reached 10.04 trillion won, up 50.8% from 6.66 trillion won a year earlier. Analysts attribute part of this to the weaker won, which has made accommodation, dining and shopping relatively cheaper for visitors converting from their home currencies. As of mid-September 2026, the won-dollar rate sits in the 1,340s, still weaker than a year ago.
Traveler satisfaction also rose to 90.5 points in the second quarter, up 0.7 points year-on-year, and the share of visitors traveling beyond Seoul climbed to 34.2%.
Part of the won's weakness stems from external factors such as rising U.S. Treasury yields and a strong dollar, though analysts also point to strong Korean exports — semiconductors in particular — as another factor shaping the currency's moves. Since exchange rates shift daily, it's worth checking the live rate again the day before your trip as part of budgeting.
The rising share of visitors traveling outside Seoul also suggests more foreign tourists are venturing beyond Seoul-centered shopping and dining trips to regional festivals and natural attractions. If your card statement for hotels and meals in Korea has felt lighter than expected once converted back to your home currency, that impression isn't just a feeling — it's backed by the numbers.