Gateway to Korea Initiative Launches in India

Introduction to the Gateway to Korea Initiative

The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) has launched an initiative called “Gateway to Korea” in collaboration with Shinhan Bank India, Korean Air, and Yatra. This program aims to attract Indian tourists by integrating curated travel packages, financial perks, and exclusive benefits. The campaign will blanket ten major Indian cities, leveraging digital outreach to bolster Korea’s appeal as a prime travel destination.

Partnership and Its Implications

This strategic partnership, formalized by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), is set to enrich the travel experience for Indian visitors. The signing event occurred on August 22, 2025, and was attended by top representatives from all involved parties. The collaboration targets to enhance Korea’s visibility within the Indian tourism market while providing integrated financial and travel perks.

Under this initiative, Yatra will craft exclusive holiday packages that highlight both leisure and industrial tourism in Korea. Additionally, Shinhan Bank India plans to launch a savings product tailored to travelers looking to visit Korea, packed with travel-linked benefits. Korean Air is also stepping in to offer amenities like lounge access at Incheon Airport, ensuring a smoother journey for passengers. The KTO will manage the strategic execution, aligning the initiative with their broader goal of making Korea a preferred destination for Indian travelers.

Key Locations for Promotion

The promotional campaign will be rolled out in major Indian cities, including:

• Delhi
• Mumbai
• Bangalore
• Hyderabad
• Chennai
• Ahmedabad
• Surat
• Jaipur
• Pune
• Kolkata

Expert Insights

Myong Kil Yun, the Regional Director of KTO for India and South Asia, highlighted the importance of the Indian market for their strategy. He expressed excitement about collaborating with trusted partners to create memorable experiences for Indian tourists, combining exclusive financial incentives and special offerings all designed to make travel to Korea more enticing.

Manish Amin, Co-Founder and CIO of Yatra Online, added that Korea presents a unique blend of tradition and modernity that offers travelers exciting cultural experiences along with innovative advancements. Yatra’s exclusive packages are set to showcase this blend while enhancing accessibility and engagement for Indian travelers.

A Glimpse into Korean Tourism History

Korea has long been recognized as a destination that offers diverse experiences, from bustling urban life to serene natural landscapes. Historical tourism, coupled with contemporary attractions, has attracted millions worldwide, including a growing interest from Indian travelers. Notably, the Korean Wave—popularized through music, films, and fashion—has further piqued interest in Korean culture and travel.

The recent years have forecasted substantial growth in inbound tourism, particularly fueled by major events such as the Asian Games and Winter Olympics, which aim to showcase Korea on the global stage.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Korean Tourism

As the Gateway to Korea initiative unfolds, the emphasis on customer-centric travel will likely reshape the landscape for Indian tourists. By targeting specific markets and enhancing promotional strategies, South Korea aims to elevate its status as a leading global tourism destination.

Korea’s commitment to enhancing tourism experiences for Indian travelers signifies a pivotal moment in international tourism ties. GetBoat.com is always keeping an eye on the latest tourism news, ensuring travelers have the best information at hand. Whether exploring Korea or venturing into more marine-centric destinations, the growing collaborative efforts illustrate the dynamic nature of global tourism growth.