Tourism statistics reveal a steady increase in the number of South Korean visitors to Brunei. As of September 2024, air arrivals from South Korea reached 6,641, a significant rise from 4,671 in 2023, highlighting the growing appeal of the Sultanate as a travel destination.
In a bid to further boost this trend, the Tourism Development Department recently organised a specialised familiarisation trip for South Korean travel agents with expertise in golf tourism. The initiative, held earlier this week, aimed to promote Brunei’s golf offerings and attract more visitors from South Korea.
Recognising the strong potential of South Korea as a key tourism market, particularly given the country’s enthusiasm for golf, the familiarisation trip showcased Brunei’s tranquil and high-quality golf courses. The event, hosted by a local travel agency, provided participants with an immersive experience, allowing them to craft tailored golf tourism packages for the South Korean market.
The itinerary included visits to several prominent golf courses. The travel agents also inspected local hotels to assess accommodation standards, service quality, and overall suitability for golfing tourists.
In addition to golf-focused activities, the trip introduced the agents to Brunei’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Participants visited the Royal Regalia Museum, the Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas, and the Gadong Night Market, gaining a broader understanding of Brunei’s appeal as a diverse travel destination.
The programme concluded with a networking session with Tourism Development Department representatives. The session provided a platform for agents to share feedback and insights, while fostering discussions on future collaborations to further develop golf tourism between Brunei and South Korea. – James Kon