Inspired by fun in the Philippines

In my two years in this country, I have visited many places that affirm the claim that “It’s More Fun in the Philippines.” Apparently, I am not alone. Many of my fellow Koreans have been visiting the Philippines in the past, and they continue to do so in ever increasing numbers.  I am happy to say that Koreans comprise about 25% of the foreigners who visited the country last year, making them the number one tourists.

Koreans are everywhere — from beach resorts to mountain trails, from diving spots to golf courses. Others have taken residence here, either in the suburbs or in the metropolis.

And where there are Koreans, there would be Korean restaurants and grocery stores. They cater as well as to the Filipinos who have developed a taste for Korean cuisine. It is part of the Korean wave or hallyu, that the Philippines has been riding for quite some time, and includes Korean-novelas on TV and K-Pop.

More than anything else, I believe that Korean tourists are flocking to the Philippines for its beauty and the hospitality of its people.

I myself have visited some popular areas, like Boracay and its pristine beaches, Bohol with its Chocolate Hills and tarsier sanctuary, and the mountain peaks of Cebu. This June, I will visit Palawan and finally get to see one of the World’s New 7 Wonders of Nature, the Underground River in Puerto Princesa.

My experiences have been fantastic. While the infrastructure may not be perfect, I expect more foreigners to arrive after the European Union removed the Philippines from its aviation blacklist last year.

On the other hand, there were more than 400,000 Filipinos who visited Korea last year. This was a 20.9% growth from the previous year. This number is significant, and indicates that Korea is becoming one of the favorite vacation spots of Filipino tourists as well.

Seoul has a special appeal to many visitors, and so does Jeju Island, which, incidentally, is also one of New 7 Wonders of Nature. People enticed by our own slogan, “Korea, Be Inspired,” probably visit Korea to shop for clothes, cosmetics, and electronic gadgets, as well as to have a taste of authentic Korean food, and enjoy the historical attractions. I heard that some also go to Korea for its salons and cosmetic surgery clinics. Seoul, like Metro Manila, is a “hip” and “stylish” place, especially for women, young and old.

The number of visitors may vary, but it is really a two-way exchange. While many Filipinos are in Korea on vacation, on scholarship, or as skilled and reliable workers, Koreans come to the Philippines to see the sights, to study, or to set up a business.

The affinity between our peoples is understandable. Geographically, the Philippines is our nearest neighbor in Southeast Asia. The weather is perfect for us who come from the temperate zone. And aside from the famous Filipino hospitality, we have shared values, especially with regard to the family.

Koreans in the Philippines may sometimes give the impression of detachment. Filipinos who visit Korea, however, actually have more positive encounters. In general, Koreans are relatively shy and reserved, especially when meeting people for the first time. Once people get to know us, they realize that we cherish meaningful friendships just like everyone else, and that Koreans are also a fun-loving and friendly people. The growth of Philippine tourism may just be one of the means to improve the image of Koreans in this country. After all, it’s more fun to make friends in the Philippines.

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(Lee Hyuk is the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea.)