It’s no surprise that Korea is winning over Kiwi travellers, was the consensus from the Kiwi agents visiting the republic.
While the consultants thought they knew about the destination, they say they were surprised by the broad range of product, especially the coastal offering and Busan’s mix of markets and beaches.
The nightlife too was a hit with the consultants.
. . . Shopping
The shopping also exceeded the agents’ expectations. Many of the consultants were pushing their 23kg luggage limit to the max, with K-beauty items and affordable Korean fashion proving popular.
The standard of the tour operators also gave the agents confidence to sell Korea to the FIT market. As testament to the overall experience, each of the agents says they are planning a return trip.
. . . Touring Up
Tour operators too are reporting spiking Korea sales. Intrepid Travel’s year-to-date bookings from New Zealand to Korea are up 16% year-on-year, which it attributes to the mix of food, pop culture, history, nature and modern city life.
In general, Kiwis are said to be embracing Korean food, skincare, beauty products and popular culture more than ever before. Gaming and martial arts are also drawcards.
. . . KE
Korean Air is helping to bolster the nation’s increased profile, as Korea becomes an alternative destination for Kiwis looking to add a stop in Asia en route to Europe.
Agents on the famil praised KE’s flight timings, with the day flight and early-evening arrival in Seoul meaning passengers get a good night’s sleep and can be out exploring the next day.
. . . KTO
As Kiwi demand for Korea continues to build, the Korea Tourism Organization is focused on continuing the market momentum.
In 2025 it achieved 10% growth in Kiwi arrivals (to 41,000), and the tourism body says it’s well on its way to achieving this year’s targeted 45,000 Kiwi arrivals.
The Walshe Group’s Jeeyoon Lee, representing the KTO, says agents are key in helping Kiwis discover Korea. The KTO has trade training resources designed to build agents’ knowledge and confidence in recommending Korea to their clients.
It is also bringing more agents to the destination, such as on this latest famil. See more HERE.
