Korean Travelers Embrace Spontaneity For May Holidays

As the month of May approaches, many Korean travelers are gearing up for the long-awaited Golden Holiday, which spans from Labor Day to Children’s Day, offering a potential six-day weekend. In light of this, the global travel app Skyscanner has conducted an analysis of search data to unveil the most popular travel destinations among Korean customers for this holiday period.

According to Skyscanner’s findings, the top-ranked destination for May 2025 is surprisingly not a specific location, but rather the option labeled 'Anywhere,' which garnered a significant 19.3% of searches. This reflects a growing trend among travelers who are open to spontaneous trips, perhaps in search of adventure or a much-needed break.

Following 'Anywhere,' the analysis revealed that Fukuoka, Japan, came in second with 16.3% of searches, while Osaka and Jeju, both tied at 14.6% and 13.5% respectively, also made the list. Other notable destinations included Tokyo (13.5%), Da Nang, Vietnam (6.1%), Sapporo (4.7%), Nha Trang (4.6%), Shanghai (4.4%), and Cebu in the Philippines (3%).

Jessica Min, a travel expert at Skyscanner, commented on these trends, stating, “Destinations like Fukuoka and Da Nang, which offer diverse experiences at a good value, are climbing the ranks.” She noted that the upcoming holiday period is likely to see travelers opting for short-distance trips that allow for flexible planning, emphasizing a theme of ‘cost-effective recharge’ travel.

Moreover, the analysis highlighted a notable increase in search volumes for certain destinations. Specifically, searches for Osaka surged by 38%, while Phu Quoc in Vietnam saw an astounding 188% increase compared to two weeks prior. This suggests that travelers are increasingly interested in destinations that are within a five-hour flight radius, allowing for quick getaways without the stress of long-distance travel.

As travelers plan their trips, Skyscanner’s 'Anywhere' search function provides an innovative way to explore potential destinations. Users can filter their searches based on criteria such as 'beaches,' 'delicious food,' or 'less crowded locations,' allowing them to discover underrated travel spots that may offer unique experiences.

In anticipation of the Golden Holiday, many are looking for tips on how to maximize their travel experiences. Min advises travelers to take advantage of the various filters available on Skyscanner to find the most affordable options for their chosen dates. "If you want to prepare for a trip at a lower price with the remaining holiday time, you can explore options using filters like 'beach,' 'delicious food,' or 'underrated destinations' to compare travel options by price," she explained.

With the holiday quickly approaching, it’s clear that the Korean travel market is buzzing with excitement. As families and friends look to make the most of their time off, the analysis by Skyscanner offers valuable insights into where they might head next. The rise of spontaneous travel choices also indicates a shift in how people view vacations—favoring flexibility and exploration over rigid planning.

As the data shows, the allure of short, affordable trips to places like Fukuoka and Da Nang is not just about the destinations themselves, but also about the experiences they offer. With a variety of activities and attractions available, these locations provide a perfect backdrop for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

In conclusion, as the May Golden Holiday approaches, it’s an exciting time for Korean travelers. With a mix of traditional favorites and emerging hotspots, there’s no shortage of options for those looking to escape for a few days. Whether choosing to go 'Anywhere' or settling on a specific destination, the focus remains on making the most of the precious time off.