South Korea’s rapidly recovering aviation market with China is producing something potentially more important than another tourism rebound: airlines are beginning to connect secondary Chinese cities directly with regional Korean destinations. Japan once appeared positioned for the same development. In 2026, however, the two markets are moving in dramatically different directions. SOURCE: Korea Is Taking China’s Tourists Beyond Seoul. Why Japan Is Losing the Same Opportunity BY: eTurboNews
South Korea is expanding direct flights from secondary Chinese cities to regional destinations.
Japan is not experiencing the same growth in direct flights and tourism from China.
Aviation recovery allows for more connections and can lead to increased tourist visits.
South Korea is actively expanding connections, while Japan is lagging behind in this area.