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In the minds of many, package tours are often associated with boring experiences, packed schedules, and excessive shopping. However, this perception is gradually changing as more and more young Koreans, especially Millennials and Generation Z, are choosing this type of travel. According to The Chosun Daily, this is a surprising trend and reflects a transformation in the Korean tourism industry.
Previously, independent travel was considered the top choice for young people due to its freedom, flexibility, and ability to discover new things. However, nowadays, many young Koreans realize that package tours also have their own advantages.
Korean travel companies are striving to win over Millennials and Gen Z with unique and flexible tour packages.
Package tours in South Korea today are designed with flexibility specifically for travelers in their 20s and 30s. Unlike traditional group tours that follow a strict schedule, these new-style tours are more flexible, with guides arranging accommodation, transportation, and main activities; while also allowing participants to decide on some of the experiences along the way.
Planning a trip with friends isn't always easy. Everyone has different schedules and interests, and agreeing on a common itinerary can be difficult and time-consuming. Furthermore, traveling alone, especially for young people, can lead to feelings of insecurity and loneliness.
Understanding these difficulties, travel companies have introduced a new type of travel: age-group travel. This type of travel is designed specifically for people of the same age, interests, and travel style. Age-group travel is a great opportunity to meet, socialize, and make friends with people who share similar interests. You will no longer feel lonely when traveling alone.
Tour packages are creating a new impetus for South Korea's tourism industry.
Jeong Jin-yeop (48 years old), a tourism industry expert, has observed a generational shift in travel habits. He stated, "In our time, budget-friendly backpacking was the norm. We cut costs whenever possible. But today's younger travelers place more emphasis on the experiential aspects of their trips."
A South Korean travel company has made a strong impression by introducing a 15-day all-inclusive tour to Europe, specifically designed for people born between 1986 and 2005. The unique aspect of this tour is its focus on a "hassle-free" experience. With the slogan "We handle the details, you focus on the experience," the travel company aims to provide travelers with a truly comfortable and memorable trip.
Many young people choose to travel on organized tours to focus on the experience.
Beyond "hassle-free" European tours, specialized tours are also receiving significant attention from South Korean travelers. For example, a basketball tour to the US specifically for NBA fans sold out in just 30 minutes, despite a price tag of 7 million won (US$4,800). This demonstrates that travelers are willing to pay a substantial amount for tours that align with their interests and passions.
Other special tours, such as watching Formula 1 (F1) races, attending football matches featuring player Son Heung-min, or going on tennis or golf tours, also quickly sold out.
The emergence of "tailor-made" package tours is an inevitable trend in the modern tourism industry. It not only meets the growing demands of tourists but also demonstrates the dynamism and creativity of travel companies. Hopefully, in the future, we will witness even more unique and high-quality tours, offering tourists wonderful and memorable experiences.
