Vietnamese visitors pose for a group photo during a tour in Qingdao, Shandong province, from Jan 2 to 7. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Qingdao's appeal to South Korean travelers is supported by its geographic proximity, expanding air links, and visa-free entry policies, officials said. These factors have helped sustain travel flows even during traditionally slower winter months.

Looking ahead, local authorities said Qingdao plans to prioritize visitor growth from the Republic of Korea and Southeast Asia, while exploring opportunities in European, North American, and Shanghai Cooperation Organization member countries. Officials added that the city aims to spread tourism demand more evenly throughout the year by diversifying products and strengthening cooperation with international partners.