70% of Workers Opt for Short, Close-By Summer Getaways

Changing Trends for Summer Break

Did you know more than 88 percent of Korean office workers are planning a summer break this year! Recent surveys show that over half of respondents prefer a short three to four day escape within domestic borders. With long journeys out of favor, workers seek rest and quick cures for daily stress. Even when international travel freedom has returned, nearly seven out of ten choose local destinations, favoring convenience and cost efficiency. Popular spots range from beach drives to mountain retreats just a few hours from Seoul. Local bloggers rave about hidden coastal cafes and serene river valleys as perfect quick getaways.
Bloggers on Naver share tips for affordable guesthouses near the East Coast, while Tistory posts highlight secluded forest cabins that promise digital detox experiences.

Domestic vs Overseas Destinations

While domestic trips dominate overall, overseas interests rise among younger generations! In their twenties nearly one third plan a foreign trip, with Japan and Southeast Asia topping the list. Colleagues in their thirties and forties follow closely, but interest drops sharply among those over sixty. Blog posts on Tistory highlight budget itineraries to Tokyo and Hanoi, and Naver entries share tips on finding affordable guesthouses and street food. This generational gap reflects evolving curiosity and disposable income patterns, as well as social media influences that make distant cultures feel closer. One Naver blog even maps out a six-day Japan food tour that went viral among young professionals.

What Matters Most in a Vacation

So what are travelers looking for the most Do they chase thrill or serenity Casual searches point to rest and healing as the chief priority, with nearly half of workers choosing relaxation above all. Scenic beauty and local cuisine rank next, followed by comfortable lodgings. Mountain resorts and sea view guesthouses feature prominently in blog reviews on Naver, where commenters gush about tranquil sunrises and the joy of unplugging. Experience based activities like local pottery workshops are less common but growing in interest, suggesting a subtle shift toward meaningful engagement beyond sightseeing. Food hunters also seek out hidden seafood shacks along the southern coast based on enthusiastic Tistory recommendations.

Cultural Insights and Reactions

From discussion boards to family group chats, the cultural need for shared moments remains strong! Over fifty percent travel with family, and emotional bonds drive many choices. Home staycations and small group trips cater to this communal spirit. Online reactions vary—some rejoice at cost savings, while others express envy over friends jetting abroad. Digital detox options such as forest bathing have niche appeal, and some workers even opt for workations in seaside towns to mix productivity with leisure. One popular Naver post describes a guesthouse in Jeju with homemade tangerine tea as a highlight. Understanding these trends offers insight for planners and marketers aiming to craft packages that blend safety, value, and authenticity.