South Korea's Love Affair with Shanghai Grows 260%

Shanghai has become the hottest getaway for South Korean travelers, and the numbers tell an incredible story of renewed connection between neighbors.

Thanks to China's 30-day visa-free policy launched in November 2024, South Korean visitors to Shanghai jumped from 570,000 in 2023 to a stunning 1.37 million in 2025. January 2026 bookings skyrocketed 260% compared to last year.

For Seoul fashion designer Choi Yu-jin, Shanghai offers the perfect trifecta: spotless streets, amazing food, and wallet-friendly prices. She's visited three times since 2024 and already has her fourth trip planned for April.

"Even upscale dining came at lower prices than in Korea, without compromising on taste," Choi said. With flights taking just two hours, the city feels closer than many domestic Korean destinations.

Young travelers are particularly drawn to Shanghai's blend of historic charm and modern energy. Neighborhoods like Xintiandi, with its preserved 19th-century stone houses turned trendy restaurants, and Tianzifang's artsy alleyways offer endless photo opportunities and a fresh perspective on modern China.

Tour guide Song Hao, who has worked in Shanghai for 30 years, notices the shift. "Hot and trendy restaurants, coffee shops, as well as cosplay venues and cyber-themed places are popular," he said.

The affordability factor makes a real difference. Office worker Lee Ji-won pointed out that while South Koreans traditionally visited nearby Japanese cities, Shanghai now offers equal convenience with better value for money.

The Ripple Effect

This tourism boom represents more than vacation photos and shopping bags. It's creating meaningful cultural bridges between two countries whose relationship has sometimes been complicated.

China's visa-free policy extends to 45 countries and reflects a strategic effort to revive tourism during an economic slowdown. For South Korea, it means accessible travel experiences that were previously tangled in paperwork.

Travel experts predict South Korean visitors to China will reach 3.94 million in 2026, a 24.2% increase. Shanghai will likely maintain its position as the gateway, capturing nearly half of all Korean visits to mainland China.

The trend shows no signs of slowing, especially during Korea's Lunar New Year celebration in mid-February, when bookings are up 270% compared to last year.

As visa policies remain favorable and word spreads about Shanghai's appeal, more travelers are discovering that sometimes the best adventures are closer than you think.