South Korea expands half-price domestic travel subsidy program nationwide

South Korea's Gangjin County launched a "half-cost travel" subsidy program covering up to 50% of domestic travel expenses, which is now expanding nationally as more Koreans seek affordable alternatives to expensive flights and limited flight options. The program incentivizes travel to lesser-known rural towns, distributing tourism spending beyond major urban centers. This reflects broader economic pressures on Korean households and represents a government strategy to stimulate domestic tourism and regional economic development. The initiative demonstrates how Asian economies are adapting to post-pandemic travel challenges and rising transportation costs.