Korea Tourism Organization Welcomes Heejin Cho as New Regional Director for the Americas

New Leadership to strengthen U.S.-Korea Tourism relations through targeted marketing

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) is pleased to announce the appointment of Heejin Cho as the new regional director for the Americas and Head of the New York Office, effective September 15, 2024. With extensive experience in international marketing and tourism strategy, Ms. Cho looks forward to supporting efforts to further promote Korea as a destination of choice for U.S. travelers.

Ms. Cho has held several key roles at KTO, including Executive Director of International Tourism Marketing to draw more international visitors and gained valuable experience as a Researcher at the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism).

As Regional Director, Ms. Cho’s key initiatives will include the following priorities:

• Expanding Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with travel partners in the U.S. to develop travel packages that showcase Korea’s unique cultural offerings, through joint promotions and co-branded initiatives.
• Promoting Korea’s Luxury Tourism: Offering exclusive experiences, including temple stays with private meditation, VIP performances of traditional arts, fine dining with Michelin-Star Chefs, and advanced beauty and wellness treatments.
• Promoting Special Interest Themes: learncations, where travelers can combine education with leisure (e.g., language immersion programs, K-pop dance camps), and catering to niches like vegan travel and workation to meet the traveler preferences.
• Leveraging K-Culture: Captivate global audiences, from the worldwide influence of K-pop and K-dramas to the growing fascination with Korean cuisine.
• Boosting International Conferences: Providing customized support for academic associations, professional societies, and institutions to host conferences and events tailored to their specific needs, positioning Korea as an ideal hub for international meetings.
• Targeted Digital Marketing: Delivering more personalized content to specific traveler groups. This approach will help engage diverse audiences, such as younger travelers looking for cultural adventures, luxury tourists seeking premium experiences, and families exploring unique travel opportunities.

“I am excited to take on this role and look forward to working closely with our partners to showcase the diverse and vibrant experiences Korea has to offer.” said Ms. Cho. “The U.S. is one of Korea’s top four inbound markets, with significant potential for future growth. From K-pop and K-dramas to luxury and special interest tourism, we are committed to ensuring that every visitor finds something that resonates with them and deepens their connection to Korea.”

About Korea Tourism Organization

Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) is an organization of the Republic of Korea (South Korea) under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST). KTO serves the interests of Korea’s tourism economy by marketing the country as an all-season visitor destination. Fascinating history, rich culture, amazing food, and friendly people combine to make South Korea one of the most visited countries. The Visit Korea Year 2023-2024 campaign promotes K-Culture. Located in East Asia, South Korea is a country of contrasts, with tourist attractions ranging from ancient mountaintop Buddhist temples such as Bulguksa Temple to the ultra-modern skyscrapers as Lotte World Tower in Seoul.