Yantai in East China's Shandong province hosts a cultural tourism promotion event in Seoul, enhancing cultural exchanges between the two regions. [Photo/Dazhong News]

The event on March 18 in Seoul attracted over 150 participants from South Korea's travel agencies, media, cultural associations, and related businesses.

Yantai in Shandong, a city very close to South Korea with only an 80-minute flight to Seoul, is marketing itself as an ideal weekend destination for South Korean visitors. The city presented five signature experiences: exploring legends, discovering local heritage, enjoying seaside relaxation, savoring wines, and indulging in coastal cuisine.

To make the invitation more tangible, Yantai offered South Korean guests customized souvenirs, including a special-edition liquor featuring the bilingual message "Friday night trip to Yantai". QR codes on the packaging link to a Korean-language travel guide covering dining, attractions, and accommodations.

The event also featured an exhibition of Yantai's cultural treasures, like Changyu wine, silk embroidery, dough modeling, and traditional straw braiding.

Due to its geographical proximity and visa facilitation, Yantai has become a top choice for South Koreans. In 2025, South Korean tourists accounted for more than one-third of all international arrivals in the city.