• 최종편집 2026-01-12(월)

In English
Home >  In English

실시간뉴스
  • Global Wellness Economy Reaches Record $6.8 Trillion, Set to Hit $9.8 Trillion by 2029
    The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) announced on the 19th the release of its Global Wellness Economy Monitor 2025, the industry’s only comprehensive research report covering the global wellness market and its 11 major sectors. According to the new data, the wellness economy continues its strong and accelerating trajectory, reaching an all-time high of $6.8 trillion in 2024, a 7.9% increase from the previous year and nearly double the size recorded in 2013. GWI confirmed that the global market has fully moved beyond the “pandemic recovery” stage, as all 11 wellness sectors have now surpassed their 2019 levels—many by significant margins. Among them, wellness real estate and mental wellness have been the fastest-growing categories over the past five years, expanding at annual rates of 19.5% and 12.4%, respectively. One exception is workplace wellness, which recorded a 1.5% decline from 2023 to 2024. Still, the broader regional markets have shown marked vitality, with North America (7.9%), the Middle East-North Africa (7.2%), and Europe (6.3%) posting notable annual growth. Wellness, A Massive Economic Force: The scale of the global wellness economy has now surpassed several other mega-industries. At $6.8 trillion, wellness is larger than sports ($2.7T), tourism ($5T), the green economy ($5.1T), and information technology ($5.3T). It is nearly four times the size of the pharmaceutical sector ($1.8T) and represents 60% of total global health expenditures, which amount to $11.2 trillion. Wellness accounted for 6.1% of global GDP in 2024, up from 5.7% in 2019, and is projected to rise to 7.1% by 2029. GWI forecasts that wellness spending will continue to accelerate at 7.6% annually through 2029, pushing the market to $9.8 trillion. The strongest projected performers include wellness real estate (15.8%), traditional and complementary medicine (10.8%), mental wellness (10.1%), and thermal/mineral springs (10%). “Now that the wellness economy has fully recovered from the pandemic, we can see how unstoppable it is as a consumer trend, and also how much the future growth has been accelerated by our pandemic experiences,” said Katherine Johnston, GWI senior research fellow. “There’s been a sea change in consumer mindsets, with prevention, mental health, social connection, the impacts of our living environments, and nature becoming dramatically more important all over the world. These shifts are fueling growth across all wellness sectors––from wellness real estate and mental wellness to hot springs and social bathing to more sophisticated preventative medical-wellness solutions.” The 140-page report presents detailed market data, sector-level analyses, and projections for all 11 wellness categories, along with regional trends and the top 20 national markets. A new chapter for 2025 explores key forces shaping the future of wellness and why some segments are expanding more quickly than others. Which Wellness Markets Will Grow Fastest? Among recent trends, wellness real estate remains the standout performer, doubling in size over the past five years. Mental wellness continues to surge, driven by increasing levels of stress worldwide and heightened prioritization of psychological wellbeing among younger demographics. The U.S. leads the mental wellness market at $125 billion, far outpacing China in second place at $16 billion. Sub-markets with especially strong growth over the past five years include cannabis products (26%), meditation and mindfulness (18.9%), and sleep-related products and services (12.6%). Four significant categories—personal care and beauty; healthy eating, nutrition and weight loss; physical activity; and traditional and complementary medicine—maintained stable annual growth of around 5% from 2019 to 2024. Meanwhile, tourism-related sectors experienced a strong rebound between 2023 and 2024: wellness tourism grew 13.8%, spas 14.6%, and thermal/mineral springs 11.1%, placing them among the year’s strongest performers. Per capita wellness spending varies widely by region, with North America at $6,029 and Europe at $1,876, while Latin America-Caribbean ($607), Asia ($471), and the Middle East-North Africa ($339) remain significantly lower. Looking ahead, GWI projects that by 2029, six wellness sectors will exceed $1 trillion in market size: personal care and beauty; healthy eating, nutrition and weight loss; physical activity; wellness tourism; wellness real estate; and traditional and complementary medicine. Thermal and mineral springs are also expected to be a standout performer, bolstered by a global surge in social bathing culture and significant investments in springs-based destinations.
    • In English
    • Global News
    2025-11-20
  • Asia Spa Experts Gather in Jeju for the 2025 Asia Spa Industry Union Summit
    The 2025 Asia Spa Industry Union Summit (ASIUS 2025) was successfully held on November 10 at Hotel Sirius in Jeju, bringing together spa experts from five Asian countries. Co-hosted by the Korea Spa Wellness Society (KorSpa) and the Healthcare & Spa Industry Promotion Agency (HESPA), the summit welcomed more than 60 delegates and industry leaders from Korea, Japan, China, Mongolia, and Malaysia. The event featured national spa industry trend presentations and academic research reports from scholars of the Korean Academy of Hot Spring. Mr. Hideo Yoshida, President of the Japan Spa & Sauna Association, shared Japan’s initiatives to revitalize its sauna industry through Aufguss competitions, manga-based promotional strategies, and specialized training programs. The Chinese delegation highlighted the continued growth of China’s spa industry driven by rising demand for health and relaxation, noting particularly strong development in Hainan Province and Shenyang in Liaoning. Representing Korea, Dr. Woo Jong Min of HESPA presented the development of the “Good Spa” certification system aimed at enhancing standardization and service quality. The summit also included an awards segment recognizing outstanding contributions to the Asian spa sector. Korea’s K-WAVE Co., Ltd. received top honors as both the “Medical Spa Medical Beauty Marketing & Service Best Management Agency” and the “Medical Spa Anti-aging Marketing & Service Best Management Agency,” while PREO, one of Korea’s leading faucet and spa equipment brands, was named Best Brand in the equipment category. In addition, Jeju-based cosmetic brands—including THE PURE LOTUS, DAILISH, MAROHAN, JEJU INDI, THE WOO COMPANY, and 6-DROPS—were showcased and drew substantial interest from international attendees. The next summit will be hosted by the Chinese association, with Shenyang, China emerging as the leading candidate for March 2026. Paul Ha-young Song, President of KorSpa, stated that spa services across Asia are evolving in diverse and innovative ways amid growing wellness demand, emphasizing the importance of strengthening cross-border information and human exchange to support shared and sustainable development across the Asian spa and wellness industry. KorSpa President Paul H. Song (left) and JSSA President Hideo Yoshiada (middle) hand over the Union flag to Mr. Zhang Jinzhong (right), President of China Spa Association, the next host of the summit.
    • In English
    • Global News
    2025-11-13
  • TOURISE Announces USD 113BN in Portfolio Investments to Accelerate the Future of Tourism
    TOURISE, the bold global platform shaping a new horizon for tourism, has announced that it has catalyzed investment portfolios totaling USD 113BN at the inaugural TOURISE Summit in Riyadh. The milestone reflects TOURISE’s mission to unlock high‑value deal flow by convening public and private sector leaders across tourism, technology, investment, and sustainability to set a shared roadmap for the next 50 years of global tourism. The announced portfolio investments span the full breadth of the visitor economy: luxury retail, next‑generation hotel accommodation, large‑scale integrated, experience‑led developments, wellness, destination and lifestyle offerings, talent development, and AI‑powered platforms. Collectively, these commitments set a new standard for what’s possible, and what’s required, to meet future tourism needs and redesign the traveler journey.Just some of the international and local companies who announced their portfolios as part of the USD 113BN include: Melia Hotels, BWH Hotels, GOCO Hospitality, Cenomi, Radisson, Earth Hotels, Delonix & Ocean Link, AlFozan Holding, Al Kathiri Holding, Alothaim, and Knowledge Economic City.By combining hard infrastructure with human capital, and fusing data, design, and hospitality, these investments will unlock new value across the tourism ecosystem, create new job opportunities, and deliver unforgettable, purpose‑driven experiences at scale. Above all, many were Saudi focused, cementing the Kingdom’s international competitiveness and desirability as a leading global travel destination, where culture, innovation, and world‑class service come together, and signal to partners and investors that this is where the next era of tourism growth is to be built.Investment ushers in the next chapter of the global tourism economyHis Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Board of TOURISE, commented “TOURISE has been the catalyst that brings investors, policymakers, and innovators to the same table, turning vision into bankable partnerships and high‑impact deals. Together, we’re redefining the entire traveler economy—powered by AI, built on destination and experience excellence, and designed so growth and opportunity extend across the ecosystem.”Today’s announcement advances TOURISE’s founding purpose: to unite decision‑makers and disruptors across the public and private spheres to accelerate transformative partnerships and convert ambition into action through high‑impact dealmaking. With the announcement of such unprecedented levels in the tourism ecosystem, it highlights how TOURISE brings the right people together at the right time to drive outcomes that will reshape how the world travels, connects, and grows.
    • In English
    • Global News
    2025-11-13
  • Oslo to Host the 19th International Sauna Congress in 2026
    The Norwegian Sauna Association (Norges Badstulaug) has announced that the 19th International Sauna Congress (ISC 2026) will take place in Oslo from September 24–26, 2026, bringing together more than 500 sauna experts, enthusiasts, and industry leaders from around the world. Hosted at SALT Art & Music and The Well Spa & Hotel, the largest spa facility in the Nordics, ISC 2026 will explore the evolving role of saunas in modern life through three main themes: Sauna & Health, Global Sauna Culture, and Architecture, Technology & Sustainability. “ISC26 will bring the global sauna community together like never before,” said Lasse Eriksen, President of the Norwegian Sauna Association. “It’s the most important meeting place for anyone seeking to stay updated on the new frontiers of sauna research and knowledge.” Eriksen added, “Hosting the congress in Oslo gives us the opportunity to showcase not only what has been achieved, but what is possible — from design and sustainability to the many ways sauna nurtures community, health, and well-being. This will be a truly unique meeting of tradition and innovation.” Mr. Lasse Eriksen, President of the Norwegian Sauna Association Venues and Highlights The congress will open at Oslo City Hall, the same historic venue where the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony takes place each year, featuring cultural performances and an introduction to Norway’s vibrant sauna boom. Main sessions will be held at SALT Art & Music, a waterfront “sauna village” and cultural landmark, and The Well Spa & Hotel, which also serves as the main sponsor of the event. The three-day program will include talks, expert panels, networking sessions, and immersive sauna experiences—both in urban environments and in nature—celebrating the diversity of sauna traditions across the world. For details, visit: www.saunacongress2026.org The Rise of Norway’s Badstue Culture In recent years, Norway has experienced a dramatic expansion of its public badstue scene — the original Norwegian word for sauna — with new floating saunas on the fjords, forest retreats, urban sauna villages, and architecturally ambitious designs emphasizing sustainability and community engagement. “The growth of Norway’s progressive, nature-based, and urban badstue culture has been nothing short of spectacular,” said Eriksen. “We’ve seen saunas rise from the edges of fjords to the heart of city waterfronts — projects built by communities, architects, and operators who share a vision that sauna belongs to everyone, and that it can beautifully reflect nature, culture, and modern life in harmony.”
    • In English
    • Global News
    2025-10-29
  • 17th Asia Spa Industry Union Summit to Convene in Jeju, Highlighting Wellness Collaboration Across Asia
    The 17th Asia Spa Industry Union Summit (ASIUS) will take place on November 10, 2025, at Hotel Sirius Jeju, bringing together leading spa and wellness experts from across Asia. Co-hosted by the Korea Spa and Wellness Society (KorSpa) and the Healthcare & Spa Industry Promotion Agency (HESPA), and supported by the Korean Academy of Hot Spring and the Jeju Industry-University Convergence Center, the summit aims to strengthen international cooperation in the evolving wellness and hot spring sectors. Delegations from China, Japan, Mongolia, and other countries are expected to attend. The invitation-only event requires advance registration and will feature a welcome dinner on November 9 and a Jeju regional sightseeing program on November 11, offering participants opportunities for both professional exchange and cultural immersion. In parallel, the Academic Conference of the Korean Academy of Hot Spring will also be held, where Korean researchers will present insightful studies and findings on wellness spa programs, adding a scholarly dimension to the international event. Together, these programs underscore Jeju’s growing reputation as a hub for wellness, spa innovation, and sustainable tourism in Asia. For details, visit: http://korspa.net/asius2025/ Roof Top Pool at Hotel Sirius Jeju
    • In English
    • Korea Today
    2025-10-29
  • Africa Wellness Congress 2025 Highlights the Continent’s Growing Role in the Global Wellness Economy
    The Africa Wellness Congress 2025 concluded in Marrakech this week, bringing together more than 100 professionals from ten countries to explore business, investment, and innovation opportunities in Africa’s expanding wellness industry. Held on October 13–14 at the Es Saadi Marrakech Resort, the inaugural event carried the theme “Pioneering Investment & Business in Africa’s Wellness Industry.” Organizers and participants described the congress as a defining moment for the sector, underlining Africa’s potential to become a key player in the global wellness economy. Platform for Investment and Collaboration The congress was organized by HAB France and Acumen Events Maroc, with the support of the National Confederation of Tourism in Morocco and several regional and international partners, including VK Organisation, Africa Wellness Initiative, GPSA Wellness Solutions, Imperial Linens, Luxe Radio, Prestige Coaching, Spa Business, the Spa & Wellness Association of Africa, Spoon and Spoon Agency, and World Wellness Weekend. Over two days, delegates attended high-level conferences, panel discussions, and networking sessions focused on wellness tourism, hospitality, sustainability, and professional training. A lineup of 22 expert speakers shared insights on trends shaping the wellness sector and strategies to strengthen Africa’s position in the global market. Leaders Praise Morocco’s Wellness Vision Opening the event, Hamid Bentahar, President of the National Confederation of Tourism in Morocco, described the congress as “a visionary gathering rooted in the spirit of Bahja and celebrating the seven dimensions of wellness.” “Morocco, a land of inspiration, hospitality, and balance, offers the world a vision of wellness that is both authentic and forward-looking,” Bentahar said. Soumia Hite, Director of Prestige Coaching, said the gathering signaled a larger continental movement. “This congress marks the beginning of a collective effort to position Africa as a global reference in the wellness economy,” she noted. Building a Pan-African Wellness Ecosystem Industry experts including Trevor Ward, Patrick Saussay, Martin Goldmann, Fadhel Bouaziz, Sophie Agullana, Yuki Kiyono, Kent Richards, Beth Gatonye, Grace Zichawo, and Gil Amsallem led discussions on investment, concept design, and innovation, offering perspectives on both opportunities and challenges across the continent. The event concluded with a networking dinner at La Cour des Lions, celebrating Moroccan hospitality and cultural refinement. “The success of this first edition confirms the need for a pan-African forum dedicated to wellness,” said Christine Eskandar, International Projects Director at HAB France. “Together, we have laid the foundation for a sustainable and inclusive ecosystem capable of showcasing Africa’s unique potential to the world.” With its successful debut, the Africa Wellness Congress has positioned itself as a new continental platform for collaboration and growth, reflecting the rising influence of Africa within the global wellness landscape.
    • In English
    • Global News
    2025-10-24

실시간 In English 기사

  • In Search of Sleep: Hilton Caters to Rising Number of Sleep Tourists with Debut of Hilton Sleep Retreats
    Kilolani Spa at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort Sleep expert Dr. Rebecca Robbins to host snooze‑worthy series at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort’s Kilolani Spa Hilton’s 2024 Trends Report found the No. 1 reason people of all generations want to travel this year is to rest and recharge. In fact, some travelers are even building their entire trip around sleep, which is a trend now known as “sleep tourism.” Sleep tourism first picked up speed in 2023 and has accelerated this year – in its recent report, the Global Wellness Institute cites Wellness Tourism as one of the fastest-growing segments of travel, projected to reach $1.4 Trillion USD by 2027. To address this demand and in celebration of National Sleep Month in March, Hilton has partnered with sleep science expert Dr. Rebecca Robbins to offer expert insight into ways Hilton can lead the industry in providing the best night’s rest possible across the portfolio. This includes new programming like the launch of Sleep Retreats at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, with the potential to expand to additional markets in the coming months. Dr. Robbins, an assistant professor in medicine and associate scientist at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, is also an acclaimed author and sleep expert featured in national print and television. She deeply understands the importance of sleep and which behavioral changes can help travelers get the most Zzzs when staying in unfamiliar environments. Together with Hilton, she will help guests put these insights into practice during a series of one-of-a-kind retreats, with the first launching in Maui at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort’s Kilolani Spa, an all-new open-air luxury spa adorned by the natural beauty of Hawaii. “Understanding the vital role sleep plays in our lives goes much deeper than just knowing we need it. It's about nurturing and prioritizing it, especially in our fast-moving world where being constantly on the go is the norm," said Dr. Robbins. “Collaborating with Hilton to bridge the gap between sleep science and its practical, everyday application excites me and our retreats serve as a wonderful demonstration of how this knowledge can be brought to life – whether traveling or at home.” Designed to educate and empower guests while leveraging the unique wellness amenities offered at Hilton, the Sleep Retreats provide an all-encompassing journey into the science and practice of achieving restful, restorative sleep. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a series of Dr. Robbins-led activities, discussions, strategies and meditations focused on enhancing sleep quality. Kilolani Spa at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort - Portal Beyond spa services developed to mitigate jet lag, optimize circadian rhythms and release sleep-enhancing hormones, the programs include lectures that illuminate the science of restfulness, covering topics such as the foundations of sleep mechanics and sleep disorders. The retreats also feature healthy, sleep-promoting meals and opportunities for guests to design a personalized sleep schedule, ensuring each guest leaves with the knowledge and practices needed to improve their daily routine. “Hilton seeks to provide more than just a place to stay. We aim to be a catalyst for wellness, starting with a great night’s sleep. Recognizing that more than half of all travelers surveyed in our recent Trends Report emphasized the need for rest when they travel, our commitment has never been more important,” said Amanda Al-Masri, global vice president, wellness, Hilton. “From the moment a guest steps into our hotels, every touchpoint is an opportunity to contribute to the quality of their overall wellness, and these curated Sleep Retreats represent a fusion of comfort, science and innovation crafted to improve the sleep experience.” Hilton’s commitment to enhancing the guest sleep experience is exemplified by specialized offerings across its brands and properties. Travelers have shown a deep appreciation for the basics, and while all Hilton brands offer unique and exclusive bedding, Canopy by Hilton offers a gel memory foam mattress and Serta Cool Balance® technology, with the brand’s signature canopy frame, and Motto by Hilton has equipped its rooms with top-notch mattresses, sound-absorbing surroundings and smart technology available through the Hilton Honors app. Wellness offerings also extend directly into the room across many Hilton properties, such as Tempo by Hilton’s rooms designed with “power down” features for an optimal sleep environment. Additionally, dedicated wellness rooms are available at Signia by Hilton Atlanta Georgia World Congress Center, which are equipped with tools to help guests get their R&R. More information on Hilton’s new Sleep Retreats will be made available on the Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort’s website in the coming weeks.
    • In English
    • Feature
    2024-03-16
  • American Express Reveals 2024 Top Travel Trends
    American Express Travel® released its 2024 Global Travel Trends Report[1] today, highlighting the inspiration and trends driving global travel bookings this year. The report, based on survey data from travelers in the United States, Australia, Canada, India, Japan, Mexico, and the United Kingdom, found that 84% of respondents plan to spend more or the same amount of money on travel in 2024 compared to last year. Additionally, 77% of respondents care more about having the right travel experience than about the cost of the trip.The four trends driving booking decisions are:· For the Love of the Game: Sports fans are planning trips around athletic events, whether it involves a favorite sport, a beloved team, or an international multi-sport competition· Planning Big: Major, expedition-style adventures, like a trip to the Galapagos Islands or trekking with the gorillas, deliver the transformative experiences that travelers are looking for· Going Solo: Travelers are takings trips alone, embracing the ease of planning and ability to tailor itineraries that are a perfect fit· On a Whim: With so much of life being structured and scheduled these days, people are seeking flexibility in their travel plans and leaving room for spontaneity“Travelers are focused on creating the right itineraries and building memories, whether that means booking a trip to see a favorite sports team compete or taking a once-in-a-lifetime expedition cruise,” says Audrey Hendley, President of American Express Travel. “Our Global Travel Trends Report sheds light on what is driving global travel bookings and provides inspiration for where to go next. Our American Express Travel Consultants can help, no matter what type of trip you want to take.”Top insights from American Express Travel’s 2024 Global Travel Trends Report include:· A desire to see sporting events live and to watch favorite teams and beloved players in person are driving where travelers are going and what they are doing when they get there.- 67% of Millennial and Gen Z respondents[2] (compared to 58% of all respondents) are interested in traveling for sporting events in 2024- 58% of respondents who are traveling for sports in 2024 will do so for soccer, basketball or Formula 1 racing- New York, Miami and Paris are the top destinations respondents are planning to travel to for sporting events this summer· Transformative, once-in-a-lifetime trips, like visiting the Galapagos Islands and hiking in Antarctica, are at the top of many travelers’ wish lists, and younger travelers want an expert to help them plan.- 65% of respondents are more interested in taking a major trip in 2024 than in previous years- 72% of respondents would rather save money for a major trip than spend it on going out with friends; and more than half of respondents plan on saving between 6 months to 2 years for a major trip- 58% of Millennial and Gen Z respondents want a travel agent or trusted advisor to help them book a major trip this year- 55% of respondents planning a major trip would consider visiting multiple countries in a region· The ease of planning and ability to make the perfect, personalized itinerary is driving people to plan trips alone, especially younger travelers.- 76% of Millennials and Gen Z respondents (compared to 69% of all respondents) say they are planning on taking a solo trip 2024- 74% of male respondents and 63% of female respondents say they are planning on taking a solo trip in 2024- 66% of respondents planning on traveling solo are planning a trip tailored to treat themselves- 60% of respondents planning on traveling solo this year intend to take two or more solo trips· Travelers are leaning into flexible itineraries, allowing them the freedom to be spontaneous and experience the local culture when they travel.- 78% of respondents say that spontaneous trips appeal to them77% of Millennials and Gen Z have booked a last-minute trip before, compared to 65% of Gen X[3] and 52% of Baby Boomers[4]- 68% of respondents agree that they like to leave unplanned time in their trip to experience local culture/activities- 57% of respondents prefer booking a last-minute getaway to a nearby destination rather than somewhere far awayAs the demand for travel continues into 2024, American Express provides eligible Card Members with exceptional travel access and experiences, including 1400+ airport lounges through its Global Lounge Collection®; expert Travel Consultants who can build dream itineraries for everything from major trips like an expedition cruise or safari, to quick weekend getaways; restaurant reservations through Resy and curated where-to-eat guides at Resy.com/Travel; benefits across global sporting experiences and venues; benefits at over 2000 hand-picked hotels around the world via Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection; more than 1000 premium vacation rental properties via Select Homes + Retreats™, and more.The full American Express Travel 2024 Global Travel Trends Report can be viewed here. [1] Survey Methodology: This poll was conducted between January 31 - February 8, 2024 among a sample of 2005 US Adults, 1007 Australia Adults, 1002 Canada, 1002 UK Adults, 1002 Japan Adults, 1006 Mexico Adults and 1005 India Adults who have at least a $50k+ income equivalent and typically travel at least once a year. The interviews were conducted online. Results from the full survey have a margin of error of plus or minus 2-4 percentage points. Some geographies may be weighted with fewer variables depending on local census data availability.[2] Millennials and Gen Z are defined as respondents as being born between 1981 - 2012.[3] GenX are defined as respondents as being born between 1965 - 1980.[4] Baby Boomers are defined as respondents as being born between 1946 - 1964.
    • In English
    • Global News
    2024-03-14
  • MICHELIN Guide to Seoul & Busan 2024
    The internationally renowned Michelin Guide released “The MICHELIN Guide Seoul & Busan 2024” in February of this year. This marks the first time the Michelin Guide for Korea has included a city outside of Seoul since first being released in 2017. Busan was selected due to the port city’s unique dining culture.The MICHELIN Guide Seoul & Busan 2024 features 177 restaurants in Seoul and 43 restaurants in Busan, for a total of 220 premium dining locations. French restaurant Allen and Japanese restaurant Mitou in Seoul both earned their second star, while Mori (Japanese cuisine), Palate (French cuisine), and Fiotto (Italian cuisine) in Busan each earned their first Michelin star. Fiotto also earned a Green Star for their use of ingredients picked directly from the farm.In addition to the restaurants which were able to earn stars, the guide also includes 15 and 6 restaurants in Busan and Seoul respectively that were recognized as Bib Gourmand restaurants, providing delicious food at reasonable prices. These new additions bring the total of Bib Gourmand restaurants to 72, ranging from traditional Korean cuisine to Japanese, Mexican, and Thai, as well as vegan cooking.Foodies planning a trip to Korea should definitely check the Michelin Guide! For a gourmand experience that won’t cost too much, a visit to one of the Bib Gourmand restaurants is a great choice.The MICHELIN Guide Seoul & Busan 2024▶ Michelin restaurants in Seoul▶ Michelin restaurants in Busan
    • In English
    • Korea Today
    2024-03-12
  • Seoul Subway Introduces Real-time Interpretation System
    A real-time interpretation system capable of interpreting 13 languages using AI technology has been installed at the Customer Support Center of Myeong-dong Station (Seoul Subway Line 4). The system works by connecting a mic to a see-through touch screen that displays the words spoken and translates them depending on which language the tourist selects. After the tourist asks a question in their own language, their question is translated into Korean and appears on the monitor for the Korean station worker to see and respond to. Now travelers can quickly and easily get answers to all their subway questions, including finding subway routes, the fastest transfer points, and anything else about the subway station. The touch-screen can also be used to look up information on T-locker and T-luggage, storage systems in place for travelers. The system is available in Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Malay, Indonesian, Spanish, French, German, Arabic, and Russian (13 languages total). While the system is currently in the testing stage, more machines are planned to be installed at major subway stations, including Seoul Station, Itaewon Station, Gimpo Airport Station, Gwanghwamun Station, and Hongik Univ. Station.
    • In English
    • Korea Today
    2024-03-02
  • The Global Wellness Institute Spotlights South Korea’s $113 Billion Wellness Economy
    The Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the leading nonprofit dedicated to research and education in the global wellness industry, has announced the addition of South Korea to its growing Geography of Wellness platform, through a partnership with Therme Group. A global organization committed to fostering inclusive urban wellbeing, Therme recently announced the location for its first Asia Pacific project as part of the Golden Harbor development in South Korea’s Incheon City. “GWI’s Geography of Wellness platform offers a detailed map of the wellness landscape, delineating the economic contributions of wellness-oriented businesses and activities specific to each nation,” said Susie Ellis, GWI chair and CEO. “South Korea, the world’s ninth largest wellness market, has demonstrated both growth and resilience, scaling from a pre-pandemic $99.6 billion in 2019, to a 5% dip in 2020 ($94.4 billion), to a valuation of $113 billion in 2022.” South Korea is not only thriving in its overall wellness economy but is also leading the charge in several specific categories, including ranking #6 globally in both physical activity and traditional & complementary medicine. The nation also secures the #8 spot worldwide in public health, prevention & personalized medicine, as well as workplace wellness—despite a slight dip in spending over the previous year in the latter sector— asserting its continued dedication to evolving workplace culture and public health initiatives. GWI assesses 11 key sectors within the wellness economies of 218 countries worldwide. South Korea has had notable valuation increases in virtually all sectors for 2022 (a new dedicated Global Wellness Economy: South Korea report is available for download.) South Korea Wellness Sector Annual Growth 2020-2022 with 2022 ValuationPhysical Activity: +11%, $29.68B Personal Care & Beauty: +3.5%, $24.87B Healthy Eating, Nutrition & Weight Loss: -0.5%, $13.49B Traditional & Complementary Medicine: +2.7%, $13.46B Public Health, Prevention & Personalized Medicine: +44.6%, $13.40B Wellness Real Estate: +16.5%, $8.37B Wellness Tourism: +11.3%, $5.43B Mental Wellness: +7.2%, valued at $2.86B Spas: +16.2%, valued at $1.55B Workplace Wellness: -3.6, $1.15B Thermal/Mineral Springs: +13.3%, $0.58B Living Well in South Korea Wellness in South Korea is a blend of centuries-old traditions and modern science and technology, in an environment rich in natural resources. Korean cuisine—with its vast variety of kimchi (fermented vegetables), banchan (side dishes), fresh seafood and vegan options—has already taken the world by storm. Wellness practices such as sauna and hot springs bathing, meditation, martial arts (taekwondo and taekgyeon), herbal and medicinal teas, acupuncture and moxibustion (a technique of burning herbal moxa cones to warm acupuncture points) are widely adopted for health maintenance and healing. Living well in South Korea today also means adopting modern fitness routines, accessing digital wellness tools, practicing skincare rituals, and accessing diverse cosmetic and beauty options popularly known across the world as K-beauty. Key Wellness Experiences in South Korea With its vast mountain ranges and surrounded by seas on three sides, South Korea offers a phenomenal natural setting for all types of wellness activities and holidays, from hot springs bathing, to hiking, to water sports; from mountain and seaside resorts to meditation retreats and temple stays. One can sample mountain herbs, temple cuisine, and traditional Korean dishes that can help promote blood circulation and warmth in cold weather. Its metropolises offer wellness amenities from spa and beauty to fitness, to traditional and complementary medicine. Visitors may want to try a mindful tea ceremony, or immerse in Korean bathing traditions at natural hot springs as well as communal baths and saunas, a social and family-friendly experience. Therme Group’s collaboration with GWI is pivotal in showcasing South Korea on the global stage. Stelian Iacob, senior vice president of Therme Group, remarked: “South Korea has rich and varied wellbeing traditions and a high-growth wellness economy. We are committed to enhancing the wellbeing of South Korea’s residents and visitors, and this research provides vital data for the industry. The research shows that people are rediscovering the health benefits of thermal bathing and wellness therapies, and we look forward to working with local partners to bring our unique wellbeing resort experience to the region.” To learn more about South Korea’s wellness economy, visit its dedicated Geography of Wellness page on the GWI website.
    • In English
    • Global News
    2024-02-16
비밀번호 :