Seoul City and the Seoul Tourism Association will operate Seoul Welcome Week 2026 from May 1 to 8, offering a series of hospitality events and hands-on programs for foreign tourists arriving during one of the busiest spring travel periods.

The initiative comes as overseas visitor numbers rise following recent major concerts and overlapping holiday periods in Japan and China.

Main welcome zones will be set up around Myeongdong and Yeouido, two of the city’s busiest tourist districts, with special hospitality centers and information booths running through May 5.

Additional events will continue at tourist information centers and regional tourism shops through May 8.

This year’s program places a strong emphasis on interactive experiences. Visitors can take part in AI-powered travel consultations, K-beauty themed activities, art participation booths, and K-pop cover dance performances.

Seoul officials said the goal is to provide foreign travelers with a more engaging introduction to the city while encouraging them to explore beyond the capital through connected regional tourism promotions and discount offers.

The city is also expanding its hospitality campaign beyond central Seoul by working with airlines, hotels, outdoor media, and transportation advertising.

Welcome leaflets will be distributed at several Chinese departure airports before travelers even arrive, while digital welcome messaging will continue throughout Seoul to create what officials describe as a seamless citywide visitor experience.

Now in its 11th year, Seoul Welcome Week has become one of the capital’s signature tourism hospitality campaigns aimed at leaving first-time and repeat visitors with a stronger impression of the city.

USAG Yongsan

Camp Casey