South Korean travelers are flocking to Shanghai thanks to China's visa-free policy, underpinning the city's tourism revival. Visitor numbers rose from 570,000 in 2023 to 1.37 million in 2025, with Shanghai accounting for 43% of all South Korean trips to mainland China.
For 31-year-old Seoul-based fashion designer Choi Yu-jin, the perfect getaway requires three elements: value, spotless streetscapes, and unforgettable flavours. Shanghai delivers on all counts. She has visited three times since 2024, with a fourth trip planned for April, testament to the city's growing appeal to South Korean travellers, buoyed by visa-free access and its cosmopolitan reputation.
“Restaurants and streets were notably clean. And even upscale dining came at lower prices than in Korea, without compromising on taste,” Choi said.
The number of South Korean visitors to Shanghai rose from around 570,000 in 2023 to 1.1 million in 2024, before climbing a further 23.6 per cent year on year in 2025, to a total of 1.37 million, according to data from the country’s aviation information portal. This accounted for roughly 43 per cent of all South Korean visits to mainland China, up from 35 per cent in 2024.
Short flight times, along with affordable food and attractions, helped draw these visitors. Analysts predict the trend will spread to inland cities like Chengdu and Qingdao, underpinning China's broader tourism revival. Areas like Tianzifang and Xintiandi in Shanghai have become popular spots, highlighting its urban allure.
