South Korea’s hospitality sector faces challenges as political turmoil sparks travel cancellations, raising concerns about safety and tourism recovery.
South Korea’s tourism industry, which contributed ₩84.7 trillion ($59.1 billion) or 3.8% of GDP in 2023, faces new challenges as political unrest deters visitors. The recent six-hour martial law, later rescinded, has led to some trip cancellations and a slight drop in hotel bookings.
Accor Group reported a 5% rise in cancellations, and the Korea Tourism Start-up Association noted declining bookings for early 2025. Hotels in Seoul, previously fully booked, now offer discounts to attract guests. Concerns extend to medical tourism, with some foreign patients cancelling appointments.
The "Korean Wave" of cultural exports and reputation for safety are key to South Korea’s tourism strategy, but ongoing protests could hinder growth in sectors like MICE tourism.
Experts believe the impact may be temporary if stability returns, while others remain optimistic about travel demand, particularly from China, South Korea’s largest visitor source.
South Korea's impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in court to contest his detention extension on insurrection charges tied to his martial law declaration.
South Korea's Constitutional Court held its second hearing today in President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment trial over his attempt to impose martial law last month.
Supporters of impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol gathered outside the Seoul Detention Centre, protesting his arrest ahead of a crucial impeachment trial. Yoon, the first sitting president to be detained, faces a court ruling that could determine his political future.
Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been arrested on insurrection charges following his controversial December 3 declaration of martial law, marking the first time in the country’s history that a sitting president has faced such action.
Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol skips trial over martial law bid; court proceedings and detention efforts continue amid allegations of treason and insurrection.
The World Bank confirms Kazakhstan's GDP growth forecast at 4.7% for 2025 and 3.5% for 2026, with oil production driving recovery.
Brazil announces Nigeria's acceptance as a partner country in BRICS, highlighting shared interests and Nigeria's growing role in global governance and the Global South.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Briefing: here are the top news stories for January 18th, covering the latest developments you need to know.
U.S. Congressional Azerbaijan Caucus co-chairs honour the 35th anniversary of January 20, reflecting on its impact as a pivotal moment in Azerbaijan's fight for independence.
Thousands in Belgrade held a silent protest outside RTS, honouring victims of a roof collapse. University students demanded justice for the tragedy, blaming Serbian authorities.
Reports of a two-month halt in Azerbaijani gas supplies to Serbia are false. Despite a technical issue at Shah Deniz Alpha, Shah Deniz Bravo ensures steady exports, with supplies set to resume soon. BP confirms no damage or environmental impact.
Coast Guard divers Chuck Fox and Corey Smith from the US Cutter *Polar Star* successfully repaired a leaking shaft in the freezing waters of McMurdo Sound, Antarctica.
Azerbaijan has temporarily halted its contracted natural gas supply to Bulgaria following a technical issue at BP's Alpha platform in the Shah Deniz gas field.
As we welcome the new year, it’s time to focus on species needing urgent conservation in 2025. From delicate lizards to mighty hornbills and massive sharks, all face the threat of extinction.
Over 100 Paris 2024 Olympic medals were returned due to quality issues linked to EU regulations and an untested varnish formula. The IOC has pledged to replace all defective medals.
Brazil announces Nigeria's acceptance as a partner country in BRICS, highlighting shared interests and Nigeria's growing role in global governance and the Global South.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Briefing: here are the top news stories for January 18th, covering the latest developments you need to know.
Thousands in Belgrade held a silent protest outside RTS, honouring victims of a roof collapse. University students demanded justice for the tragedy, blaming Serbian authorities.
South Korea's impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in court to contest his detention extension on insurrection charges tied to his martial law declaration.
The World Bank confirms Kazakhstan's GDP growth forecast at 4.7% for 2025 and 3.5% for 2026, with oil production driving recovery.
Brazil announces Nigeria's acceptance as a partner country in BRICS, highlighting shared interests and Nigeria's growing role in global governance and the Global South.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Briefing: here are the top news stories for January 18th, covering the latest developments you need to know.
U.S. Congressional Azerbaijan Caucus co-chairs honour the 35th anniversary of January 20, reflecting on its impact as a pivotal moment in Azerbaijan's fight for independence.
Thousands in Belgrade held a silent protest outside RTS, honouring victims of a roof collapse. University students demanded justice for the tragedy, blaming Serbian authorities.
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