In the first nine months of 2026, foreign tourists in Seoul spent a record ₩8.84 trillion (approximately $6.57 billion) using credit and debit cards, a nearly 58% surge from the same period last year. This figure already surpasses the annual total for 2025, which stood at ₩7.94 trillion.
The increase in foreign spending was driven by a record 13.14 million visitors to the city. Chinese tourists led the way, accounting for 4.2 million of those visitors. Shopping and medical/wellness services dominated the sectors where foreigners spent their money, making up 46% and 23.8% of the total respectively.
Gangnam Ward, a popular tourist destination, accounted for 29.6% of the total foreign spending, followed by Jung Ward with 27.7%. Local commercial alleyways saw an astonishing 80.5% surge in spending from foreigners.
On the other hand, it may put pressure on infrastructure and services, as well as raise concerns about the environmental and social impacts of increased tourism.
The Seoul city government attributes the growth in foreign spending to tourism and has announced plans to develop content to extend visitor stays and boost local economic revitalization. The goal is to link tourist hubs with commercial districts and traditional markets, creating a more seamless and engaging experience for foreign visitors.
As the city looks to the future, the surge in foreign spending presents both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, it can inject a much-needed boost into local businesses and help revitalize underutilized areas. On the other hand, it may put pressure on infrastructure and services, as well as raise concerns about the environmental and social impacts of increased tourism.
For now, however, the numbers paint a clear picture of Seoul's growing appeal to international visitors. As the city continues to evolve and adapt to this trend, it will be important to strike a balance between welcoming these foreign dollars and ensuring that the benefits are shared equitably among all stakeholders.
Key Facts:
- Foreign card spending in Seoul surged 57.7% year-over-year to ₩8.84 trillion (≈$6.57B) in the first nine months of 2026. - The figure already exceeds the annual total for 2025 (₩7.94T). - A record 13.14 million foreign visitors arrived in Seoul from January to September 2026. - Shopping and medical/wellness services accounted for 46% and 23.8% of total foreign spending respectively. - Gangnam Ward made up 29.6% of total foreign spending, followed by Jung Ward with 27.7%. - Local commercial alleyways saw an 80.5% surge in spending from foreigners.
Pull Quote: "The surge in foreign spending is a clear indication of Seoul's growing appeal to international visitors. We plan to develop content to extend visitor stays and boost local economic revitalization by linking tourist hubs with commercial districts and traditional markets." - Seoul city government