Core Insights - The introduction of visa-free travel for South Korean citizens to China has significantly increased travel interest and ease of access, leading to a surge in tourism [1][3][8] Group 1: Visa Policy Impact - Since the implementation of the visa-free policy in November 2022, the number of South Koreans traveling to China has skyrocketed, with 647,900 visitors recorded from November 2024 to January 2025, marking a 60.6% year-on-year increase [3] - The number of travelers on the Korea-China route reached 4.8614 million in the first four months of this year, reflecting a 23.5% increase, which is more than double the growth rate of travelers to Japan [3] Group 2: Changing Travel Preferences - The perception of China as a travel destination has shifted from being associated with older tourists to becoming a trendy spot for younger South Koreans, particularly in cities like Beijing and Shanghai [3][6] - New travel trends among young South Koreans include "night tours" and social media-driven travel experiences, with a focus on urban exploration and nightlife [3][6] Group 3: Airline Industry Response - Korean airlines are expanding their routes to China in response to the increased demand, with major airlines like Korean Air adding flights to cities such as Zhengzhou and Xiamen [8] - The tourism industry in Korea believes that the demand for travel to China is not a temporary spike but a sign of a full recovery phase, with expectations of continued growth in traveler numbers [8]

Core Insights - The "May Day" holiday in Shanghai saw a significant influx of tourists from visa-free countries, particularly from Europe and Oceania, who engaged in shopping for Chinese products like tea, silk, and local delicacies [2][3] - Tourists expressed their enjoyment of Shanghai's culture and attractions, with many recommending the city as a must-visit destination [2][3] - The visa-free policy has been a crucial factor in attracting tourists, facilitating travel for those with personal connections to China [3][4] Group 1 - The outdoor screen in Nanjing Road welcomed tourists with multilingual messages, highlighting the city's hospitality [2] - Tourists from Italy and Spain shared their positive experiences in Shanghai, emphasizing the beauty of the city and its offerings [2][3] - Tourists engaged in various activities, including shopping for unique items and enjoying local cuisine, showcasing the appeal of Shanghai as a shopping destination [3][4] Group 2 - Tourists demonstrated familiarity with payment methods like Alipay, indicating a growing comfort with local commerce [3] - The experience of navigating local services was mixed, with some tourists facing challenges due to language barriers in booking popular restaurants [5] - The presence of tourists with personal ties to China suggests a trend of "visiting friends and family" combined with tourism, enhancing the travel experience [3][4]