seoul convetion bureau

Seoul Named No.1 Best Leisure Destination in Asia for 2025

Seoul has once again proven itself as the top leisure destination in Asia, as chosen by global travelers.

The Seoul Tourism Organization (CEO, Kil Ki-yon) announced that Seoul has been named No.1 in the “Best Leisure Destination in Asia” category at the 13th Annual 2025 Leisure Lifestyle Awards, hosted by the prestigious U.S. travel magazine Global Traveler.

Global Traveler is a leading premium publication for business travelers in the United States, boasting over 1.1 million subscribers and 4.7 million monthly website views. 

Its annual Leisure Lifestyle Awards, launched in 2013, are based on votes from readers worldwide, recognizing top destinations in travel and leisure. 

Seoul has achieved a remarkable milestone by ranking among the top destinations for three consecutive years — placing 1st in 2023, 2nd in 2024, and reclaiming 1st place in 2025.

In this year’s ranking, Seoul was followed by ▲Taipei (2nd), ▲Tokyo (3rd), ▲Phuket (4th), and ▲Singapore (5th).

This award highlights Seoul’s strong competitiveness across a diverse range of leisure offerings — including Korean Wave (Hallyu) culture, shopping and gourmet experiences, hiking tourism, night attractions, and city festivals. 

The city’s consistent efforts to promote itself as a global “bleisure” (business + leisure) destination across its five major districts also contributed to this achievement.

Building on this recognition, the Seoul Tourism Organization plans to continue developing unique leisure content and strengthening global marketing campaigns to attract more international visitors.

Kil Ki-yon, CEO of the Seoul Tourism Organization, stated: “Seoul being named the Best Leisure Destination in Asia once again demonstrates that global travelers continue to recognize the charm and diversity of the city. It is especially encouraging that Seoul has ranked at the top for three consecutive years. We will continue to promote Seoul worldwide as a city where business and leisure harmoniously coexist.”