Starting One Month Earlier... Until February 22 Next Year
The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism announced on December 17 that it will host the shopping tourism festival "2026 Korea Grand Sale" until February 22 of next year to promote inbound tourism and spending by foreign visitors.
The Korea Grand Sale is a flagship tourism promotion that has been held since 2011, based on private sector participation across various fields such as airlines, accommodation, shopping, food and beverage, experiences, and convenience services, to attract foreign tourists during the off-season for inbound tourism.
This year's event starts earlier than before, beginning in December, and the duration has been significantly extended from the previous 45 days to 68 days. The main features include a longer operating period and more diversified programs, allowing a greater number of foreign tourists to enjoy the benefits.
The opening ceremony, held at Community House Masil in Myeong-dong, Seoul, was attended by around 80 people, including representatives from participating companies and foreign tourists. The event featured a themed video screening and a K-pop performance. Kim Daehyun, the Second Vice Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, attended to listen to the opinions of participating companies and inspected the shopping tourism sites around Myeong-dong as well as the Korea Grand Sale Welcome Center.
This event is jointly organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Visit Korea Committee. Approximately 1,750 companies from various sectors including airlines, accommodation, distribution, food and beverage, transportation, beauty, and convenience services are participating. Ten domestic airlines, including Korean Air, will offer up to 96% discounts on tickets for international routes to Korea.
During the event, a Welcome Center will be set up at Noon Square in Myeong-dong to provide information and exclusive discount coupons. The mobile experience facility, Play Truck, will tour major cities such as Seoul, Daejeon, Busan, and Jeonju. In Bukchon, Seoul, a Play Lounge combining experiences and relaxation will also be available.
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