Have you ever wondered why Guangzhou, China, is suddenly buzzing with South Korean tourists? It’s not just about the city’s charm—it’s the golf courses that are stealing the spotlight. But here’s where it gets interesting: China’s visa-free travel policy and Guangzhou’s year-round warmth have turned this city into a golfer’s paradise, especially for South Koreans. Let’s dive into why this trend is booming and what it means for both travelers and the local economy.
Quan Yulan, a travel agent of Korean descent who’s been in the business for 12 years, can hardly keep up with the demand. She reveals that Korean bookings skyrocketed by over 300% last year compared to 2023, when global travel was just starting to recover from the pandemic. And this is the part most people miss: her Guangzhou-based agency expects even bigger numbers this year. “Guangzhou is one of China’s major cities, but Korean golfers were once a rare sight here,” Quan explains. “Now, I’m busier than ever, and I love it!”
Here’s the twist: While 90% of golfers in Guangzhou are Chinese, South Koreans dominate the foreign player scene. Is this a cultural shift or just a temporary trend? Travel industry insiders note that most golf-focused agencies in the city, including Quan’s, employ Chinese staff of Korean descent to cater specifically to this growing market. But why Guangzhou? For years, Korean golf enthusiasts favored destinations like Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam. That changed in 2024 when China introduced a 30-day visa-free policy for South Koreans.
The results? Stunning. At the Holiday Islands Golf Club, a favorite among South Koreans, Korean visitor numbers jumped by 81% last year, while Chinese visitors grew by only 4.4%. But here’s the controversial part: Is China’s rise as a golf destination overshadowing Southeast Asia? Lee Hee-hyun, CEO of Blooming Golf Tour in Seoul, points out that rising golf costs in Southeast Asia and safety concerns in places like Thailand and Cambodia have pushed China into the spotlight. Guangzhou alone accounts for over 80% of his agency’s China bookings.
While Japan remains the top choice for Korean golfers, Guangzhou is quickly closing the gap. So, is this the start of a new era for golf tourism in China, or just a passing fad? Let us know what you think in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on this surprising trend!
