InterparkTriple published “2023 International Tourist's K-Content Preference Trend.”

InterparkTriple has played a crucial role in boosting inbound tourism to Korea, leveraging its distinctive inventory and specialized content expertise. Specifically, through the dedicated platform 'Interpark Global,' designed for global customers, the company facilitates domestic ticket reservations for inbound tourists and provides travel packages such as Play&Stay, which combine performance tickets and accommodation products.

The cumulative number of Interpark Global users increased by 43% compared to the same period last year, reaching an impressive 2 million, based on the platform's usage data from January to November 2023. Ticket reservation transactions and sales also soared by 136% and 370%, respectively, underscoring the surging popularity and demand for K-contents. Notably, the rebooking rate reached 42%, indicating a significant contribution by K-contents in encouraging repeat visits to Korea.

Concerts dominated the ranks of ticket sales by category, securing first place with an overwhelming 75% of bookings. This represents a nearly two-fold growth compared to pre-pandemic 2019, with K-pop concerts claiming a spot in all the top 5 most-booked events. Musicals, including domestic productions, ranked second at 13%, while major sporting events, including e-sports, grabbed third place with a 7% share, indicating Korea's growing prominence in the sports scene. Notably, the impressive 1473% year-over-year growth in demand for sporting events underscores the gradually expanding reach of K-contents.

Looking at the reservation rate by country, Japan led with 34%, followed by the Greater China region (15%), encompassing China and Taiwan, and the United States at 7%. These numbers signify a growing interest in Korean culture, especially in North America, extending beyond the Asian countries considered to be the epicenter of the Hallyu wave and that have traditionally engaged in vibrant cultural exchanges with Korea.

Kangse KIM, the Chief Strategy Officer at InterparkTriple, highlighted the impressive growth in global demand for K-contents, signaling a broader rise in interest for Korean culture and performances. He stated, Looking ahead, we're committed to continuously improving the user experience on our platform and enhancing the competitiveness of our K-Travel services to contribute to making Korea a top destination for global tourists.”

Earlier this year, InterparkTriple outlined its vision to evolve into a global travel platform, aiming to attract 50 million inbound tourists by integrating AI technology and innovative strategies to K-contents. By fostering synergies with Korea's top travel platform, Yanolja, and leading global solutions provider, Yanolja Cloud, InterparkTriple seeks to revolutionize the paradigm of the inbound travel market. The aim, for InterparkTriple, is to unlock the full potential of South Korea's travel industry, while making significant contributions to the rejuvenation of both national and regional economies.