Sustainable Travel in Seoul

As the world falls in love with Korean Culture and the popularity of K-pop, K-dramas, and K-beauty rises, international tourism in South Korea has skyrocketed over the past few years.

In 2024 alone, South Korea welcomed 16.36 million international visitors, and that number is expected to increase to over 20 million by the end of 2025. With this increase in tourism also comes an increased pressure on the city’s natural resources and local communities.

In response to this, Seoul, its capital city, has become a hotspot for eco-conscious and sustainable travel. Committed to net-zero carbon emissions by 2025 and ranked #1 in Asia in the 2024 Sustainable Cities Index, visiting Seoul means immersing yourself in a destination that values conservation and conscious choices.

Seoul’s Sustainable Travel Initiatives 

Here’s how the city is paving the way for sustainable tourism:

Green Hotels - Seoul has a number of “green” hotels, such as ibis Styles Ambassador Seoul Yongsan and Grand Mercure Ambassador Seoul Yongsan, which have various initiatives such as reducing carbon footprint by incorporating renewable energy or focusing on eco-conscious food options.

The Cheonggyecheon Stream - Cheonggyecheon was once a neglected, polluted waterway, which was filled with concrete and turned into a freeway. In 2003, the city began an urban renewal project to remove the concrete and restore the stream. Since then, Cheonggyecheon has been transformed into a thriving, eco-friendly destination.

Public Transport - Seoul encourages the use of public transport and has implemented Green Traffic Zones to reduce emissions, revitalized cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, and most diesel buses have been changed to electric buses.

Sustainable Choices You Can Make

• Explore on public transport 

• Take eco-friendly tours when hiking and exploring nature 

• Engage in activities that promote cultural preservation 

• Promote local economies by shopping locally 

• Protect the country’s rich biodiversity by abiding by Leave No Trace principles

Visiting Seoul with Noma Collective

At Noma, we focus on slower, more authentic travel experiences, and visiting Seoul with us means truly immersing yourself in the city. Guided by a local community manager and rooted in cultural exchange, for one month, you’ll slow down and experience the very best of Seoul with a built-in community of travelers.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR SEOUL TRIP

Sustainable tourism isn’t just a trend; it’s essential for the protection of the environment and preservation of cultural heritage. 

Next time you plan a trip to Seoul, think beyond the street food and sightseeing, and make conscious choices that ensure the city stays a beautiful destination for future generations.