K-Pop Demon Hunters Sparks 25% Surge in Travel to South Korea

The animated film K-Pop Demon Hunters has ignited a significant increase in global travel to South Korea, highlighting the compelling link between pop culture and tourism. Since its release on June 20, 2025, data from Trip.com Group reveals a remarkable 25% year-on-year rise in flight bookings to South Korea, with an average monthly increase of 11% since June.

Travellers from Asia are leading this trend, with China, Japan, and Vietnam emerging as the top three source markets for bookings. Western audiences are also contributing to the growth, with flights from Canada seeing an increase of over 50% and those from Australia rising by 20%.

In a related development, the Seoul city government announced a record-breaking 1.36 million foreign visitors in July, attributing much of this influx to the film’s international appeal. K-Pop Demon Hunters, which features a vibrant soundtrack and iconic cultural sites, has inspired fans worldwide to explore the real locations depicted in the film.

Tourism Attractions on the Rise

Popular destinations such as Bukchon Hanok Village and the National Museum of Korea have become must-visit locations for fans seeking immersive experiences. Since the film’s debut, searches for the National Museum of Korea on Trip.com have surged by 34% year-on-year, while bookings for Gyeongbokgung Palace have skyrocketed by over 115% within the same timeframe.

A walking tour of Bukchon Hanok Village has also gained traction, featured prominently on Trip.com’s trend tracker, Trip.Pulse, garnering over 300,000 views. In addition to these sites, Trip.com offers cultural experiences such as half-day tours where visitors can learn to make kimchi and participate in traditional Korean tea ceremonies inside a Hanok, a traditional Korean house.

Justin Hong, General Manager of Trip.com Korea, commented, “Korean pop culture has captivated hearts worldwide, driving travel to South Korea and a growing demand for local cultural experiences. Our latest data shows that this travel surge is largely fueled by Millennials and Gen Zs, underscoring the massive appeal of Korean pop culture among young travellers globally.”

The Impact of Pop Culture on Travel

The ongoing global expansion of K-pop illustrates a powerful trend where cultural content significantly influences tourism. According to Trip.com Group’s recent report, many travellers from the Asia-Pacific region are motivated to visit destinations based on what they watch. Interest in media-inspired travel is particularly pronounced among those aged 25-34, suggesting that films like K-Pop Demon Hunters can effectively drive tourism.

With the success of various hits such as Squid Game and Black Myth Wukong, the impact of entertainment on global tourism continues to grow. As travel brands adapt to this trend, the integration of cultural experiences into travel itineraries may prove beneficial for engaging international audiences.

Founded in 1999, Trip.com Group has established itself as a prominent global travel service provider, featuring platforms like Trip.com, Ctrip, Skyscanner, and Qunar. The company aims to facilitate informed and cost-effective travel bookings, connecting users with comprehensive travel resources. As it continues to evolve and respond to shifting consumer interests, Trip.com Group remains committed to its mission of pursuing the perfect trip for a better world.