In many people's memories, package tours are often associated with boring images, tight schedules and excessive shopping. However, this concept is gradually changing as more and more young Koreans, especially Millennials and Generation Z, choose this form of tourism. According to The Chosun Daily, this is a surprising trend and shows the transformation of the Korean tourism industry.
In the past, independent travel was considered the top choice for young people because of its freedom, flexibility and the ability to explore new things. However, today, many young Koreans realize that package tours also have their own advantages.
Korean travel agencies strive to conquer Millennials and Generation Z with unique and flexible tours
Package tours in Korea today are designed to be flexible and cater to travelers in their 20s and 30s. Unlike traditional group tours that follow a strict itinerary, the new type of tours are more flexible, with guides arranging accommodation, transportation, and main activities; while allowing participants to decide on some of their own experiences along the way.
Arranging travel schedules with friends is not always easy. Everyone has different schedules and interests, so agreeing on a common schedule can be difficult and time-consuming. Moreover, traveling alone, especially for young people, can bring about feelings of insecurity and loneliness.
Understanding these difficulties, travel companies have launched a new type of tourism: age-group tourism. This type of tourism is designed specifically for people of the same age, interests and travel style. Age-group tourism is a great opportunity to meet, interact and make friends with people of the same interests. You will no longer feel lonely when traveling alone.
Tour travel creates new progress for Korean tourism industry
Jeong Jin-yeop, 48, a travel industry expert, sees a generational shift in travel habits. “Back in my day, budget backpacking was the norm. We cut costs wherever we could,” he said. “But young travelers today are more focused on the need for experiences in their trips.”
A Korean travel agency has made a strong impression by introducing a 15-day package tour to Europe, designed specifically for people born between 1986 and 2005. What makes this tour special is its focus on a “hassle-free” experience. With the slogan “We handle the details, you focus on the experience,” the travel agency wants to bring visitors a truly comfortable and memorable trip.
Many young people choose to travel on tours to focus on experiences.
In addition to the hassle-free European tours, specialized tours are also receiving special attention from Korean tourists. For example, a basketball tour to the US exclusively for NBA fans sold out in just 30 minutes, despite the price tag of 7 million won (US$4,800). This shows that tourists are willing to pay a large sum of money to participate in tours that suit their interests and passions.
Other special tours such as watching Formula 1 (F1) racing, participating in Son Heung-min's football matches, tennis or golf tours... also quickly "sold out".
The emergence of "tailored" package tours is an inevitable trend of the modern tourism industry. It not only meets the increasing needs of tourists but also demonstrates the dynamism and creativity of travel agencies. Hopefully, in the future, we will witness more unique and quality tours, bringing tourists wonderful and memorable experiences.
