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Vietnam tourism shift South Korea overtakes China tourists
Vietnam Tourism Shift: China No Longer Top Source of Tourists in 2026
Vietnam’s international tourism landscape is changing rapidly in 2026. Traditionally one of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations for Chinese travelers, Vietnam has now seen South Korea overtake China as its largest source market in January this year.
This shift comes amid economic and regional tourism trends that are reshaping travel flows in the region. Here’s what you need to know about this evolving story and what it means for tourism in Vietnam.
South Korea Surpasses China as Vietnam’s Biggest Source Market
According to the General Statistics Office of Vietnam, South Korea became the largest source of international visitors in January 2026, with nearly 490,000 Korean travelers arriving in Vietnam—marking a 17% year-on-year increase.
Meanwhile, Chinese tourist arrivals were recorded at around 459,000 visitors, which represented a 20.1% decline compared to the same month last year.
This marked change shows that Vietnam’s tourism sector is experiencing a shift in source market patterns in the early months of 2026.
Why Did This Shift Happen?
Analysts suggest several factors behind this development:
1. Economic Slowdown in China
Slowing economic growth in China has led many consumers to reduce discretionary spending, including international travel, which has contributed to the decline in Chinese arrivals to Vietnam.
2. Competitive Tourism Options
Other Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and the Philippines have attracted Chinese tourists by offering visa waivers and eased entry requirements, making them more accessible compared to Vietnam.
Despite Drop, China Still a Major Tourism Market
It’s important to note that China remains one of Vietnam’s largest tourism markets overall, even if it temporarily ceded the top spot in January.
Vietnam received a record over 21 million foreign tourists in 2025 — a **20% increase year-on-year — and China was still the biggest source market overall for the year, with more than 5.2 million Chinese visitors.
The figures confirm that while short-term shifts occur, China still plays a critical role in Vietnam’s long-term tourism recovery.
Broader Vietnam Tourism Growth Trends
Vietnam’s overall tourism industry has experienced sustained growth in recent years:
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The country welcomed a record 21.2 million foreign visitors in 2025, its highest number ever.
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Visitors from Europe and North America also increased, supported by expanded visa waiver policies.
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China and South Korea together accounted for a significant share of total arrivals.
These trends point to Vietnam’s rising popularity as a travel destination, even as source markets fluctuate.
What This Means for Travelers and the Tourism Industry
The shift in source markets reflects broader travel dynamics:
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Travel demand diversification: Vietnam is attracting a wider range of visitors from across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
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Competitive tourism policies: Visa waivers and promotional campaigns are influencing travelers’ destination choices.
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Regional competition: Neighboring destinations like Thailand and Singapore continue to compete strongly for key tourism markets.
For travelers, this means more options, stronger route connectivity, and possibly better travel deals as Vietnam and its neighbors innovate to draw visitors. Also Read:VN Express
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