An overtourism row has erupted in the country that has been named the fastest-growing tourist hotspot on the planet. South Korea attracted oer 16 million visitors in 2025 – 48.4% more than the previous year and the biggest increase of any country in the world. This year, the country is expected to welcome as many as 20 million tourists, compared to just six million 20 years ago.

James Mundy, PR and partnership manager for InsideAsia, explained that this is likely down to the rise of Korean culture in media, such as K-pop groups and K-drama TV shows. He told The Telegraph: “We saw a big spike in interest for Korea in 2024, and have seen continued interest through 2025. South Korea is InsideAsia’s fastest-growing destination.

“K-culture is definitely more on the radar these days. I think that gives people a glimpse of what the country offers, and that drives a desire to travel and experience it for themselves.”

Popular destinations include the capital Seoul, Gyeongju, Jeonju, and Jeju Island. However, this summer on Jeju Island, police were forced to release guidelines to remind foreign tourists how to behave or risk fines.

This came after comlpaints from locals that visitors were littering and letting their children defecate in the streets. Repeat offenders were threatened with fines as high as 200,000 won (£106).

Elsehwere, in Bukchon Hanok Village, access is only allowed from 10am to 5pm each day, with fines of up to 100,000 won (£53) for those who disobey.

The restriction was implemented in March 2025 in the residential “red zone” behind Jeongdok Library, and aims to address noise and privacy invasion.

The UN Office for Sustainable Development also identified increased pollution, noise, and traffic as key issues exacerbated by overtourism across South Korea.

According to its report, the number of tourists visiting the country could hit 45 million by 2035.