Laolike Lake scenic spot in Yanbian Korean autonomous prefecture. [Photo/VCG]

Yanbian Korean autonomous prefecture, located in Northeast China's Jilin province, has become the region's most popular destination for international tourists. Since China introduced the visa-free policy for South Korean citizens in November 2024, Yanbian has become a hot weekend getaway for them.

During the 2025 Spring Festival, Yanji's airports handled 13,000 passengers, with 88.1 percent of inbound foreign travelers being South Korean. Yanbian experienced a remarkable 64 percent growth in 2024, with total revenue reaching 280 million yuan ($38.64 million).

Laolike Lake scenic spot in Yanbian Korean autonomous prefecture. [Photo/VCG]

Yanbian's proximity to South Korea and affordable flight prices make it an accessible and budget-friendly destination for quick weekend getaways. Furthermore, thanks to the shared cultural ties and minimal language barriers, the ease of communication has made it a particularly attractive destination for visitors, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience, said Zheng Xuefeng, a local tour guide who has led South Korean tour groups for 15 years.

Yanbian will continue to target the South Korean and Russian tourism markets while increasing investment in tourism projects. To enhance the overall visitor experience, it plans to develop new tourist attractions and landmarks, including opportunities for food tasting, entertainment, recreational activities, camping, and outdoor cooking.