BC Card, KTO to promote mobile payment for foreign tourists

The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) has announced a new partnership with BC Card and the Korea Easy Payment Foundation to introduce a mobile payment system for foreign visitors in Korea, according to a press release on Wednesday.

KTO's goal is to provide a convenient and easy-to-use payment system for shopping, transportation, accommodation and other services during foreign tourists' trips to Korea. In addition, the organization will leverage its overseas offices and social media networks to promote mobile payments and offer lucky money and coupon events.

Furthermore, KTO plans to support the activation of mobile payments in major tourist cities such as Busan and Gangneung through pilot projects, as well as expand support for small businesses like restaurants and traditional markets.

The marketing campaign will include an analysis of the spending patterns of foreign visitors, providing valuable insights to improve tourism and support-related industries and local governments.

"We are committed to establishing a solid foundation for providing benefits to visitors and actively promoting them, with a focus on increasing inbound tourism demand, invigorating domestic demand, and most importantly, helping small businesses," said Jang-shil Kim, the CEO of the Korea Tourism Organization.

Write to Young Chan Song at 0fulll@hankyung.com