Korea Launches 'Spring for Travel' Campaign with Major Discounts

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, alongside the Korea Tourism Organization, has officially launched the 'Spring for Travel' campaign, which will run from April 1 to May 31, 2026. This initiative aims to stimulate domestic tourism by offering significant discounts on flights, trains, and accommodations, encouraging citizens to explore various regions of South Korea.

The campaign features a range of incentives designed to attract travelers to less-visited areas. Notably, Korea Railroad (KORAIL) is providing a 100% refund in points for fares to 42 depopulated regions for tickets booked during the campaign period. Travelers can verify their visits using a QR code system to receive coupons equivalent to their round-trip costs. For example, a round trip from Cheongnyangni Station in Seoul to Andong, priced at 55,400 won (approximately $36.50), will allow a traveler to receive the same amount as a discount on their next journey by validating their trip with the QR code or a digital tourism resident card.

In addition to the fare refunds, KORAIL is offering discounts of up to 50% on tickets for themed tourist trains, including the East Santa Train and the V-Train, as well as the 'Naeilro Pass,' which allows unlimited train rides for a specified duration at a discounted rate of 20,000 won. A total of 90,000 travelers are anticipated to benefit from these train discounts.

Air travel discounts are also a part of the campaign, with travelers purchasing domestic round-trip tickets through Naver Flight being eligible to receive Naver Pay points worth 5,000 won per person, and up to 20,000 won for groups of four. Approximately 70,000 individuals are expected to take advantage of these airfare discounts.

Accommodations are another focal point of the campaign. Significant reductions in lodging prices are set to encourage travelers to stay longer, particularly outside the capital region of Seoul, Incheon, and Gyeonggi. Up to 100,000 discount coupons will be available, providing 30,000 won off accommodations priced above 70,000 won, and 20,000 won off those below this threshold. For longer stays (two nights and three days) costing 140,000 won or more, a discount of 70,000 won will be available, while stays under this amount will receive 50,000 won off.

Travelers interested in these lodging discounts can access coupons starting April 8 on the official Korea Accommodation Sale Festa website and various online travel agencies. Each individual can obtain one coupon, valid through April 30, 2026.

Furthermore, the campaign promotes regional tourism by providing cashback in mobile local gift certificates for expenses incurred in select areas, including Yeongwol and Gochang. Individuals can receive up to 100,000 won, while groups can claim up to 200,000 won, contingent upon submitting a verified travel plan and proof of expenses to the local government.

Themed travel products, particularly those marketed via platforms such as Gmarket and LotteON, are discounted by up to 40%, with a maximum discount of 50,000 won. Participation-based events, such as the '5 People, 5 Colors of Taste Travel,' are also attracting attention, offering unique experiences across various themes, including seasonal foods and photography.

Lastly, the Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism is offering a 50% reduction in temple stay costs throughout May, catering to individuals seeking a spiritual retreat from their daily routines.

In conclusion, the 'Spring for Travel' campaign is a strategic effort by the South Korean government to boost domestic tourism, particularly in lesser-known regions, while simultaneously providing citizens with substantial savings during their travels. With an array of incentives, the campaign not only aims to revive the tourism industry post-pandemic but also fosters a sense of exploration and appreciation for South Korea's diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.