What was Korea like for tourists 50 years ago? What were the hot spots? What places were being pushed on travellers by the government? How many tourists were actually coming here? We explore Korea A.D. 1975!
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Visit Korea! …50 Years Ago
Korea in 1975 was a very different place for tourists, both in terms of the infrastructure and the political landscape. The government’s tourism efforts were relatively new and growing, but the country was still recovering from the devastation of the Korean War and the division between North and South. This blog post takes a look at “Tourism in Korea 1975,” a fascinating book from that era that reveals insights into what tourists saw and how they were welcomed to the country.
A Government-Pushed Vision
The tourism booklet, introduced by Choi Kyung-bok (then Minister of Transportation), set the tone for Korea’s government-led tourism initiatives. A photo of Park Chung-hee, the then-president of South Korea, prominently featured at the start of the book highlights his influence on shaping the nation’s modern identity. Under his leadership, tourism was used as a means to boost the economy and foster positive international relations.
The book is full of interesting tidbits, some surprising, and a fair share of propaganda designed to showcase the country’s progress under Park Chung-hee’s rule. For instance, the description of Korea’s landmass notes the division of the peninsula and makes no mention of Dokdo, reflecting the political climate of the time.
What Did Tourists See in 1975?
While today’s visitors to Korea flock to shopping districts like Myeongdong or visit trendy spots like Namsan Tower, in 1975, the tourism scene was centered around a few key cultural and natural sites. The government made a significant push for cultural tourism, with an emphasis on temples, palaces, and parks, many of which are still popular today.
Seoul:
- Deoksugung Palace received the most attention, likely because of its proximity to the Japanese colonial-era government buildings.
- Panmunjeom in Paju, near the Demilitarized Zone, was a major draw, showcasing the country’s division and offering a glimpse into the tense political situation.
- Tapgol Park was mentioned but notably criticized by Park Chung-hee’s government, as the park played a prominent role in the independence movement.
Busan:
- The famous Haeundae Beach was highlighted, though it wasn’t as developed as it is today.
- Geumgang Park and Beomeosa Temple were also recommended.
Jeju Island:
- Hallasan and Sogwipo were top destinations, though the island wasn’t as accessible or commercialized as it is now.
Gyeongju:
- The historic Bulguksa Temple and the Sokguram Grotto were featured, offering insight into the country’s Buddhist heritage.
A Struggling Tourism Industry
In 1974, the number of inbound tourists to Korea was 517,590, which was a decline from the previous year. This decrease was attributed to strained Korea-Japan relations, notably after the kidnapping of Kim Dae-jung by the Korean Central Intelligence Agency in Japan. Notably, Japan accounted for the majority of tourists to Korea, and a poor diplomatic relationship with Japan led to a noticeable dip in numbers.
The country had just over 100 hotels, with only 53 in Seoul. These accommodations had about 10,000 rooms total, and most tourists stayed an average of 3.7 days. The focus was not on shopping and entertainment, as it is today, but more on cultural and natural experiences.
How Did Tourists Get Around?
Transportation options were more limited in 1975. Taxi fares started at W200 for the first 2 kilometers, which was about 1/10th of the price compared to today. The subway in Seoul had just opened in the summer of 1974, so most tourists would have relied on buses and taxis to get around. Additionally, foreign tourists could travel with a transit visa, and there was a maximum allowance of $200 in won for re-exchange upon leaving.
The Influence of Propaganda
A key theme in the tourism guide is the emphasis on Korea’s progress post-war, particularly in the sections about the country’s reconstruction. The book also touches upon Korea’s unique cultural heritage, including the creation of Hangeul by scholars during the Joseon Dynasty, though the modern nationalist myth focusing on King Sejong as the sole creator of Hangeul wasn’t mentioned.
The government’s narrative was clear: Korea was modernizing under the leadership of Park Chung-hee, and tourism was an essential part of showcasing that progress.
Conclusion: A Look Back at Korea’s Tourism Roots
Korea in 1975 was a country still recovering from war, political unrest, and international isolation. The tourism industry was in its early stages of development, and the government used tourism as a tool to promote its image and create economic opportunities. From the lack of modern infrastructure to the focus on cultural tourism, visitors in 1975 experienced a very different Korea than the one we know today.
By looking at “Tourism in Korea 1975,” we gain insight into the cultural, political, and economic climate of the time. It offers a fascinating snapshot of a country in transition, laying the groundwork for the tourism boom that would follow in the decades to come.
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