Discover South Korea Like Never Before: KTO Manila Launches Korea Travel Fiesta 2024

 As part of the 75th anniversary celebration of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Korea, the Korean Tourism Organization (KTO) Manila Office proudly presents the Korea Travel Fiesta 2024. This exciting two-day event took place at the Glorietta Activity Center and Palm Drive Activity Center in Makati City, providing Filipinos a unique opportunity to explore South Korea's tourism and vibrant cultural scene.

A Journey Through Korea’s Culture and Tourism

At the heart of the Korea Travel Fiesta 2024 are interactive and immersive zones that celebrate Korean culture and travel experiences. Visitors had the chance to explore themed booths that offered insights into South Korea's rich history, traditions, and modern attractions.

Key Zones and Features:

• K-Travel Zone: A comprehensive resource for travel enthusiasts planning to visit Korea. This zone featured essential Korea travel information, tips, and guides.
• K-Activity Zone: Visitors enjoyed authentic Korean experiences, from sampling Korean cuisine and wearing traditional Hanbok, to learning about Korean history, K-pop, and K-beauty trends.
• Kids Zone: A creative space for younger attendees, offering fun DIY activities like making K-themed keychains and hair clips.

Exhibitors and Special Offerings

The event also featured numerous exhibitors, including airlines, travel agencies, regional tourism organizations, and tourist attractions. Attendees had the opportunity to explore exclusive travel deals and offerings from telecommunication companies, banks, and other tourism-related businesses, making it a one-stop shop for planning future trips to Korea.

Star-Studded Performances and Appearances

The Korea Travel Fiesta 2024 kicked off with an energetic performance by Kingdom Friends—KTO’s popular characters Hojong, Mugo, and Kawoo. Filipino and Korean stars graced the stage throughout the weekend, adding excitement to the event.

Highlights included:

• Running Man PH stars Glaiza De Castro, Kokoy De Santos, and Buboy Villar, who delighted fans with stories about their time on the show and travels in Korea.
• A captivating performance by CHEF, a Korean musical group that blends beatboxing and breakdancing in a show centered on Korean cuisine, particularly the famous bibimbap dish.
• Melai Cantiveros-Francisco, a popular Filipino comedian, gave a heartwarming talk on family tourism in Korea.
• Live performances from PUNCH, the singer behind many beloved K-drama soundtracks, and WOLF'LO, a high-energy Korean hip-hop dance group.
• The event closed with an electrifying performance by Xiumin of EXO, who shared personal travel tips for visiting Korea before performing his top hits.

Glaiza De Castro, Kokoy De Santos, and Buboy Villar opens the program by sharing their experiences in Running Man PH and their visit in Korea

Melai Cantiveros-Francisco, Honorary Ambassador for Korea Family Tourism in the Philippines, talks about the different tourist spots she visited with her family in Korea

South Korean singer PUNCH brings the audience’s favorite K-drama moments to life with her soundtrack songs

Xiumin’s electrifying performance captured the hearts of viewers

Hip-hop dance group WOLF’LO ends the ceremony with a fiery showcase of Korean street culture

Fun Challenges and Demonstrations

Attendees also participated in various K-pop and K-culture activities, including:

• Makeup and Hair Demos led by Korean beauty experts.
• The exciting Spicy Ramen Challenge.
• The interactive K-pop Random Play Dance competition.

Embrace the Magic of Korea’s Winter

As the holiday season approaches, many Filipinos are planning their international vacations, and the Korea Travel Fiesta 2024 aims to showcase the wonders of Korea during winter. Attendees were introduced to South Korea’s winter festivals, scenic snow-covered landscapes, and a variety of winter activities perfect for family trips.

A Special Invitation from KTO

“Filipinos have always had a deep love for Korean culture, and the Korea Travel Fiesta is our way of expressing gratitude for the support we’ve received over the years,” said Mr. YoungChoong Seo, Acting President of Korea Tourism Organization. “As the holiday season rolls in, we invite Filipino families and travelers to visit Korea and experience its breathtaking winter season, complete with stunning landscapes and exciting festivals.”

Korea Tourism Organization Acting President, Mr. Young Choong Seo, welcomes guests to the Korea Travel Fiesta 2024

The Republic of Korea Ambassador for Cultural Cooperation, Ms. Jie Ae Sohn, offers a congratulatory message celebrating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Korea

Esteemed guests perform a ceremonial gesture symbolizing the magical experience of Korea's first snow. From left: Korea Tourism Organization Manila Office Director, HyungJoon Kim; EXO's Xiumin; Honorary Ambassador for Korea Family Tourism in the Philippines, Melai Cantiveros-Francisco; Ambassador of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines, H.E. Sang-Hwa Lee; Korea Tourism Organization Acting President, YoungChoong Seo; Department of Tourism Undersecretary for Administration and Finance, Atty. Shereen Gail C. Yu-Pamintuan; Republic of Korea’s Ambassador for Cultural Cooperation, Jie Ae Sohn; South Korean singer PUNCH; and Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines Director, MyeongJin Kim

For the latest updates on Korean culture, travel deals, and more, follow the Korean Tourism Organization Manila Office on Facebook at @koreatourismmanila and on Instagram at @ktomanila.