Held from July 2 - 4, 2025 at DTU, the ASEAN - Korea Tourism Roundtable (AK-RT) is a significant event attended by high-ranking officials, distinguished delegates from ASEAN and South Korea, as well as many experts and policymakers in the tourism sector. This gathering serves as an opportunity for ASEAN nations and Korea to strengthen cooperation, develop sustainable tourism, and seek solutions to revive the tourism industry post-pandemic.
Mr. Ho An Phong - Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Vietnam
emphasized the importance of the Roundtable in promoting tourism cooperation between ASEAN and Korea
In his opening remarks, Deputy Minister Ho An Phong stressed the importance of the conference in fostering stronger ties between ASEAN countries and Korea. He stated: “This Roundtable is not only a platform for policy dialogue but also a testament to our firm commitment to sustainable tourism development between the two regions. Vietnam is honored to be chosen as the host for this forum, a country known for its dynamic and friendly environment, always welcoming international tourists. In recent years, ASEAN-Korea tourism cooperation has made remarkable strides, reflected not only in the continuous recovery and growth of tourist flows between the two sides but also in laying the groundwork for sustainable regional tourism development. In 2024 alone, ASEAN ranked among the top 3 largest source markets, with approximately 127 million international visitors. Notably, Vietnam has emerged as the top destination in the region for Korean tourists, attracting 4.6 million arrivals. In this development journey, no country or organization can advance far without mutual support, connectivity, and learning. Therefore, the presence of national tourism officials from ASEAN and Korea, international organizations, academic institutions, and scholars at today’s Roundtable is a very positive signal - demonstrating strong interest and commitment to the future of ASEAN – Korea regional tourism.”
During the event, the Deputy Minister recognized DTU’s proactive role in organizing the Roundtable and extended thanks to its partners - especially the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the ASEAN-Korea FTA Economic Cooperation Fund - for supporting the event.
The ASEAN-Korea Tourism Roundtable 2025 Creates a Foundation for Sustainable Tourism Cooperation between ASEAN and Korea
The Roundtable’s sessions focused on practical and urgent issues in the tourism sector, particularly within the context of post-pandemic recovery and global uncertainties. Key topics included:
• Strengthening tourism safety and facilitation,
• Improving tourism infrastructure systems,
• Training human resources in the tourism sector,
• Promoting cultural diversity and understanding.
Roundtable sessions addressed urgent, practical issues in the tourism industry.
Prof. Dr. Mo Chul Min, former Vice Minister of Culture, Sports & Tourism of South Korea, currently Senior Project Manager of the ASEAN - Korea Tourism Roundtable and Senior Advisor of Passage to ASEAN (P2A), and Vice President of DTU, stated: “The first ASEAN - Korea Tourism Roundtable is part of the ASEAN – Korea FTA Economic Cooperation Initiative. ASEAN and Korea are now each other's third-largest tourism markets, with a rapid increase in tourist flows between the two regions. This Roundtable will be held consecutively for the next three years, rotating between ASEAN countries and Korea. The event is essential and meaningful for both sides to jointly develop strategies for sustainable tourism growth, foster long-term cooperation, generate economic benefits for all stakeholders, and enhance the regional tourism industry's competitiveness amid global integration.”
Hosting the ASEAN - Korea Tourism Roundtable (AK-RT) in Da Nang and at DTU was not a coincidence. Da Nang has long been a prominent international tourist destination, particularly popular among South Korean travelers. International arrivals to Da Nang have increased by 25% compared to the same period last year, proving the city’s strong appeal and development potential in tourism.
DTU is a founding member of the Passage to ASEAN (P2A) organization and has played a pivotal role in advancing the tourism industry. The university has successfully organized various international tourism events, including the 17th UNWTO Asia-Pacific Executive Training Program on Tourism Policy and Strategy, held two years ago. This clearly demonstrates DTU’s credibility and commitment to tourism development.
With outstanding experience in organizing international events and achievements in education, DTU became the first educational institution in Vietnam to receive UNWTO.TedQual certification for its tourism training programs - affirming its high-quality teaching standards.
Dr. Le Nguyen Bao, DTU Provost shared: “Da Nang is the perfect location for this Roundtable - not only does it have a robust tourism foundation, but it also serves as a gateway connecting ASEAN and Northeast Asia. We believe the discussions at the Roundtable will lay the groundwork for practical and effective solutions to promote sustainable tourism between the two regions. The ASEAN - Korea Tourism Roundtable will continue to be organized annually for the next three years, alternating between ASEAN countries and Korea. We hope that the outcomes and recommendations of this Roundtable will contribute to the development of the tourism industry regionally and globally - bringing substantial economic and social benefits to all participating nations.”
With strong support from the governments of ASEAN and Korea, especially the ASEAN-Korea FTA Economic Cooperation Fund, the ASEAN -Korea Tourism Roundtable has become a pragmatic forum for countries in the region to jointly usher in a new era of tourism - helping to shape sustainable development strategies that meet the growing needs of tourists both in the region and around the world.
(Media Center)