South Korea has firmly cemented its place as one of the most sought-after travel destinations for Brits, with 139,275 UK tourists flocking to the vibrant nation in 2024 – an impressive rise of 15% compared to the previous year.

Known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and cutting-edge technology, South Korea is increasingly becoming the country everyone is adding to their travel bucket lists.

This surge in interest comes at a time when South Korean tourism as a whole has seen an eye-watering 48% rise in 2024, marking a significant shift in travel patterns.

Much of this newfound fascination can be attributed to the cultural explosion South Korea has experienced in recent years.

The global phenomenon of Squid Game—which took the world by storm in 2021—has had a profound impact on how the world perceives the country.

With the highly anticipated second season of the hit Netflix series debuting in late 2024, demand for the South Korean won has skyrocketed, with searches for the currency increasing by a staggering 360% since December alone.

Laura Evans Fisk, head of digital & engagement at eurochange, said: “South Korean popular culture has been thriving for a number of years across the world, and has become even more popular in the UK recently thanks to the Squid Game series.

“We’ve seen a huge spike in travellers looking to buy the South Korean Won this month, almost immediately after the new Squid Game series was released.

“This just shows how excited people are to visit this amazing country and some of the filming locations of the show!”

“With the third season launching later this year, we can expect to see more and more fans making special trips to visit the filming locations and experience South Korean culture firsthand.”

Travel money provider eurochange also confirmed the surge, noting that British tourists are now more eager than ever to experience South Korea’s captivating sights and sounds.

The rise in popularity isn’t just limited to the Squid Game effect—South Korea’s combination of stunning cityscapes, historical landmarks, and modern attractions is drawing in more UK visitors than ever before.

Beyond the Squid Game sets, South Korea offers a wealth of experiences for every type of traveller. Whether you’re looking for nature, history, or contemporary culture, this dynamic country has something for everyone.

Seoul, South Korea’s bustling capital, is the perfect blend of modernity and tradition. From the striking skyscrapers of Gangnam to the tranquil beauty of Gyeongbokgung Palace, visitors can immerse themselves in the country’s rich history while enjoying world-class shopping and entertainment.

Don’t miss a trip to Bukchon Hanok Village for a glimpse into traditional Korean life with its preserved hanok (Korean houses) nestled against the backdrop of the city’s skyline.

For nature lovers, the Namsan Seoul Tower provides spectacular views of the city and surrounding mountains, while a trip to Jeju Island offers serene beaches, volcanic landscapes, and lush hiking trails.

Jeju is a popular getaway for locals and visitors alike, with its renowned Hallasan Mountain being one of South Korea’s natural wonders.

If you’re a Squid Game enthusiast, South Korea offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of your favourite characters. Many of the series’ iconic scenes were filmed across the country, making it the perfect place for die-hard fans to visit.

Head to Seongapdo Island in Incheon, where the notorious Squid Game arena was filmed, or visit the Namsan Seoul Tower, where pivotal moments in the show’s first season took place.

You can also take a detour to Suwon, where the infamous “Red Light, Green Light” game was filmed, and see the giant doll for yourself.

With the second season of Squid Game continuing to fuel global fascination, there’s no better time than now to visit the country and experience the heart-stopping moments in person.

The rapid rise in tourism to South Korea shows no signs of slowing down, and with the country’s tourism numbers soaring, now is the perfect time to plan your trip.

From the dazzling lights of Seoul to the calm tranquillity of Jeju Island, South Korea offers a diverse array of experiences for all tastes. Plus, with an increasing number of flights from the UK and more direct routes available, the journey has never been easier.