In a significant push to enhance Korea’s appeal among Indian travellers, the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) has entered into strategic partnerships with Thomas Cook (India) Limited, SOTC Travel, and EaseMyTrip. These collaborations, formalised through Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), aim to drive awareness, boost visibility, and position Korea as a preferred international travel destination for Indian tourists.
Strengthening Travel with Thomas Cook and SOTC
KTO’s 24-month partnership with Thomas Cook India and its group company, SOTC Travel, is designed to develop tailor-made travel experiences for Indian travellers, highlighting Korea’s diverse offerings, including cultural heritage, luxury tourism, wellness retreats, and culinary experiences. The MoU was signed by Rajeev Kale, President and Country Head, Holidays, MICE, Visa – Thomas Cook India, SD Nandakumar, President and Country Head – Holidays and Corporate Tours – SOTC Travel, and Myong Kil Yun, Regional Director – India and SAARC Countries, Korea Tourism Organization.
Rajeev Kale, President and Country Head, Holidays, MICE, Visa – Thomas Cook (India) Limited, said, “With new destinations and exciting experiential travel driving demand, South Korea is perfectly positioned to inspire the growing appetite of new-age Indian travellers. Our MoU with the Korea Tourism Organization not only endorses South Korea as a dynamic and vibrant destination but also opens new avenues for enriching travel experiences. We aim to foster long-term growth across our viable leisure, business, and MICE segments. Our MoU will focus on product development, destination education, and marcom to create top-of-mind visibility and drive transactions. By leveraging our expertise in the Indian market, we aim to create greater visibility for South Korea, facilitating seamless travel experiences and fostering memorable, value-driven journeys for our customers.”
SD Nandakumar, President and Country Head – Holidays and Corporate Tours – SOTC Travel, added, “We are delighted to partner with Korea Tourism Organization. South Korea stands out as a destination that resonates with the evolving preferences of Indian travellers, not just from India’s metros but also regional India’s Tier 2 and 3 markets. With its blend of rich culture, cutting-edge innovation, and exciting experiences, it holds immense potential to captivate a diverse range of travellers. Our collaboration with the Korea Tourism Organization signifies our shared commitment to enhancing travel experiences for Indian visitors. This partnership is an opportunity to curate distinctive travel products and elevate destination awareness, leveraging joint initiatives that connect with the needs of the Indian market. Together, we aim to elevate the appeal of South Korea and create sustainable growth across leisure, business, and MICE sectors.”
Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel will focus on product development, destination education, and marketing initiatives to promote Korea among leisure, business, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) travelers. The partnership aims to inspire Indian traveller’s across metro cities and Tier 2 and 3 markets, further boosting inbound tourism to Korea.
Expanding Digital Outreach with EaseMyTrip
In a separate initiative, KTO has partnered with EaseMyTrip to harness the power of digital platforms in promoting Korea’s tourism landscape. The MoU was signed on February 19, 2025, in the presence of senior representatives from both organisations.
As part of this collaboration, EaseMyTrip will launch a dedicated Korea microsite, offering curated itineraries, essential travel information, and recommendations tailored to Indian traveller’s. Additionally, the partnership will include co-branded marketing initiatives, digital campaigns, and content collaborations showcasing Korea’s vibrant cultural heritage, modern cityscapes, and diverse travel experiences.
Speaking on this collaboration, Myong Kil Yun said, “India is a rapidly growing outbound travel market, and Korea is well-positioned to offer Indian travellers a unique and enriching experience. This partnership with EaseMyTrip aligns with our commitment to enhancing Korea’s accessibility and visibility in India. Through focused marketing efforts and tailored travel experiences, we look forward to inspiring more Indian tourists to explore Korea.”
Rikant Pittie, CEO and Co-Founder of EaseMyTrip, added, “Korea is a potpourri of history, vibrant city life, and breathtaking landscapes, making it a highly desirable destination for Indian travellers. Our partnership with Korea Tourism Organization will allow us to bring exclusive travel opportunities to Indian tourists while ensuring seamless booking experiences and customized itineraries. We look forward to making Korea a top choice for Indian outbound travel.”
Both partnerships underscore KTO’s commitment to expanding Korea’s footprint in the Indian travel market. By leveraging both traditional and digital channels, these collaborations will cater to a wide range of traveller’s, leisure tourists, corporate groups, and MICE segments, while removing travel barriers and enhancing destination awareness.
Through focused marketing campaigns, destination awareness programs, and customised travel solutions, KTO aims to solidify Korea’s presence as a must-visit destination for Indian tourists, ensuring long-term growth and sustainable tourism exchanges between India and Korea.
