As of March 18, the number of foreign tourists visiting South Korea this March has exceeded 1 million, showing an increase of more than 30% compared to the previous year. According to the Ministry of Justice's Immigration and Foreigners Policy Headquarters, the number of foreigners who entered the country from March 1 to 18 was recorded at 1,099,700. This is an increase of 271,200 (32.7%) compared to 828,500 during the same period last year.

The main reason for the increase in foreign tourists is analyzed to be the visit of fans worldwide to South Korea in line with BTS's (BTS) comeback performance. BTS is scheduled to hold a free comeback concert, "BTS Comeback Live: Arirang," at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul on the 21st, and it is expected that up to 260,000 people, including 22,000 spectators and tourists, will gather for this event.

In particular, the number of foreign entrants in their teens and twenties has increased significantly. Foreign entrants in their teens rose by 40.0%, from 65,600 last year to 91,800 this year, while entrants in their twenties increased by 35.2%, from 257,000 to 347,500. These figures exceed the overall average growth rate.

Looking at the regional distribution of entrants, 910,300 entered from Asia, 92,000 from North America, 71,500 from Europe, and 15,100 from Oceania. Except for Africa, the number of foreign entrants increased in all regions, with Europe showing a 51.0% increase over the past year.

The Ministry of Justice is implementing special immigration screening measures in preparation for the increase in foreign tourists ahead of the BTS concert. Immigration inspection counters are being increased in areas and time zones where foreign passenger arrivals are concentrated, and working hours and support for immigration officers are being extended to reduce waiting times for immigration screening.

BTS's comeback concert is having a significant impact on foreign tourists visiting South Korea, which is expected to positively influence Korea's tourism industry. BTS's fan base is widespread worldwide, and their visits are further raising interest in Korean culture and tourism.