Korea's Tourism Deficit Surges as Lockdowns End

Korea's tourism deficit soared in August due to a sharp increase in overseas travel as worldwide lockdowns ended.

According to the Bank of Korea on Tuesday, the tourism deficit increased 59 percent on-year in August, from US$610 million to $970 million. That is the biggest deficit since January 2020's $1.4 billion and similar to pre-COVID levels.

That brought this year's cumulative tourism deficit until August to $5.2 billion, up 27 percent on-year. In August 2020, the first year of lockdown, Korea's travel deficit stood at just $470 million.

The government has pledged to promote tourism and capitalize on the global popularity of K-pop and TV shows. The country has already resumed visa-free entry for visitors and it will increase international flights. VAT refunds for shoppers from abroad on things like cosmetics and accommodation will also be extended until 2024.