Faced with unusually hot weather in South Korea, many residents are planning their summer travels earlier than usual. According to newly released data, the coastal city of Nha Trang, Vietnam, has emerged as the most popular international destination for South Korean travelers during this period.

Nha Trang beach viewed from above. Photo: Duc Thao

The global travel platform Agoda reports that based on hotel searches for check-in dates in June and July, Nha Trang has overtaken Tokyo—last year's favorite—to become the top choice for South Korean tourists this summer. The next most searched destinations included Fukuoka, Osaka (Japan), and Da Nang (Vietnam), ranking third to fifth, respectively.

Agoda suggests that continuing global inflation is leading travelers to choose closer, more affordable destinations with shorter flight times.

China has also emerged as an attractive new destination, with searches for the cities of Qingdao and Shanghai soaring 212% and 207%, respectively. This increase is attributed to China's temporary visa-free policy for South Korean citizens, implemented in 11/2023.

South Korean tourists stroll along Nha Trang beach in 5/2025. Photo: Bui Toan

For domestic travel, Jeju Island remains the most sought-after destination, followed by Seoul, Busan, Sokcho, and Gangneung. Sokcho and Gangneung, both in Gangwon Province, saw increased interest thanks to the Donghae Line railway, which opened late last year, significantly improving access to South Korea’s east coast.

"With forecasts predicting extreme heat and a prolonged rainy season this summer, many people are adjusting their vacation schedules earlier than usual," an Agoda representative noted.

Typically, the summer vacation period for South Korean office workers runs from late July to early August, but traveling earlier can save on accommodation costs and avoid the peak season crowds.

With a coastline stretching nearly 400 km and boasting three bays—Nha Trang, Van Phong, and Cam Ranh—among the world's most beautiful, Khanh Hoa Province attracts visitors from countries who enjoy warm waters. In 2024, the province welcomed about 4.8 million international visitors, including more than 2.4 million South Koreans.

Tuan Anh (according to The Korea Times)