India, South Korea sign MoU for strengthening cooperation in the field of Tourism

India and South Korea have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for strengthening cooperation in the field of Tourism. The MoU was signed between Union Ministry of Tourism and South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in New Delhi. It was signed during official four-day visit of First Lady of South Korea Kim Jung-sook (wife of incumbent South Korean President Moon Jae-in) to India. First Lady Kim is Chief Guest at Deepotsav event organized by Uttar Pradesh Government in Ayodhya and at ceremony of inaugurating new Memorial of Queen Suriratna (Heo Hwang-ok) in Ayodhya.

Ayodhya and Korea have historical connections. It is believed that lAyodhya’s egendary Princess Suriratna had traveled to Korea in 48 CE and married Korean King Suro.

Key Facts

South Korea is one of the leading tourists generating market for India from East Asia region. Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) from South Republic in 2017 were 1, 42, 383 and during January- September were 1, 08,901. The signing of this MoU will be instrumental in increasing tourist arrivals to India from this source market.
It will expand bilateral cooperation in tourism sector, increase exchange of information and data related to tourism and encourage cooperation between tourism stakeholders including Hotels and Tour Operators. It will also encourage Investment in the Tourism and Hospitality sectors and promote safe, honorable and sustainable tourism

Month: Current Affairs - November, 2018