A recent study by the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) reveals that foreign nationals highly value their experiences in Korea during working holidays, attributing their choice to positive perceptions of the country. Released on September 25, the report highlights various factors influencing this trend.
Reasons for Choosing Korea
The survey indicated that the primary reason for selecting Korea as a working holiday destination was a favorable view of the nation, with 15.4% of respondents citing this as their motivation. Following closely, 12.1% mentioned the opportunity to engage with Korean culture, particularly the influence of Hallyu (the Korean Wave). Additionally, public safety for expatriates was a significant factor, noted by 9.2% of participants.
Duration of Stay and Travel Experiences
Most expatriates on working holidays in Korea spent between three to six months in the country, accounting for 60.7% of respondents. The most common intended duration was six to nine months, reported by 46.2% of participants. During their stay, 43.3% of respondents indicated they traveled domestically, averaging about 5.64 trips throughout their time in Korea.
Nationality Breakdown
Since the inception of the working holiday visa (H-1) in 2005, the majority of participants have come from Japan, totaling 34,656 individuals. This was followed by nationals from Taiwan (10,721), France (8,491), Hong Kong (4,609), and Germany (3,174). Notably, the number of French individuals taking part in this program has surged dramatically, rising from just 74 in 2009 to 2,070 in 2023, underscoring Korea’s growing appeal in France.
Methodology of the Study
The KTO conducted the study between May 2 and May 14, utilizing online surveys and interviews with approximately 300 foreign nationals currently living in Korea or who had previously participated in a working holiday visa program.
Korea maintains working holiday and youth exchange agreements with 25 countries, including Australia, Canada, and Japan. These programs enable young people to live and work abroad for a specified period, allowing them to finance their travel expenses while immersing themselves in the local culture.
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