The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Tourism Organization announced the launch of the ‘2026 Korea Grand Sale’ from January 17 to February 22. This year’s event is the largest ever, with over 1,750 companies participating across sectors such as aviation, accommodation, shopping, dining, and experiences to offer foreign tourists a wide range of benefits.
The opening ceremony was held at the ‘Community House Masil’ in Myeongdong, Seoul, attended by about 80 people including key corporate representatives and foreign tourists. The event featured a themed video titled ‘Korea Grand Sale: Thrilling Voyage to the Sea of Hallyu’ and a K-pop performance by ‘K-Tigers.’ Ten domestic airlines, including Korean Air, offer up to 96% discounts on flights to Korea.
In the shopping sector, major department stores, duty-free shops, outlets, supermarkets, and convenience stores provide various benefits such as gifts based on purchase amounts, discount coupons, free beverages, and exclusive store offers. Collaborations with popular foreign tourist brands like CJ Olive Young, Musinsa Standard, and K-Town For U have also been expanded. Instant discounts of up to 15% and cashback benefits are available through foreigner-friendly payment apps like UnionPay and WowPass.
Five themed experience programs are offered: ‘K-Gourmet,’ ‘K-Exciting,’ ‘K-Stylish,’ ‘K-Healing,’ and ‘K-Inspired.’ These include cooking classes for Korean dishes, K-pop dance lessons, beauty seminars, traditional Korean medicine experiences, and visits to cultural landmarks. Regional tourism is promoted through the ‘K-Train’ package tours and mobile facilities like ‘Play Truck’ and ‘Play Lounge.’ Detailed information is available on the official website: https://en.koreagrandsale.co.kr.