The Rise of the ‘Hocance’ and the Shifting Landscape of Korean Travel
For years, the image of a Korean vacation conjured up visions of cozy pensions or family-friendly condominiums. But a significant shift is underway. Hotels are now the dominant force in domestic Korean travel, a trend fueled by a desire for convenience, cleanliness, and surprisingly, affordability. Recent data reveals a dramatic increase in hotel stays, signaling a structural change in how Koreans approach leisure travel.
From Pensions to Polished Lobbies: A Decade of Change
A comprehensive study by Consumer Insights, analyzing nine years of travel data (2017-2025) from over 26,000 respondents, found that hotels accounted for 30% of all domestic accommodation choices last year. This represents an 80% increase from the 17% recorded in 2017. Conversely, pensions and condominiums have seen their popularity decline, with their Travel Corona Index (TCI) dropping by 17-26% since 2019. This isn’t simply a preference for luxury; it’s a reflection of evolving travel priorities.
The “hocance” – a portmanteau of “hotel” and “vacance” (French for vacation) – has become a cultural phenomenon. It’s about more than just a place to sleep; it’s about experiencing a curated lifestyle, often including hotel amenities like pools, spas, and on-site dining. Shinla Stay, for example, has successfully marketed hocance packages, attracting a wider demographic.
The Cost of Convenience: Balancing Budget and Comfort
Interestingly, this surge in hotel popularity coincides with a heightened focus on travel costs. “Cost” remains the most important factor for domestic travelers (22%), and its TCI has actually increased since pre-pandemic levels. This apparent contradiction is explained by the rise of mid-range hotels offering competitive pricing and a reliable standard of quality. Travelers are prioritizing value – a clean, convenient, and comfortable experience without breaking the bank.
This trend is also impacting the types of hotels favored. While luxury 4- and 5-star hotels still hold appeal, there’s been a notable increase in stays at 3-star and below establishments, rising from 12% in 2017 to 16% in 2023. This shift aligns with the growing popularity of smaller-group travel (couples or solo travelers) and a preference for exploring local culinary scenes rather than relying on hotel restaurants.
Beyond the Hocance: Future Trends in Korean Travel
Several key trends are poised to shape the future of Korean travel accommodation:
- Hyper-Personalization: Hotels will increasingly leverage data analytics to offer personalized experiences, from room preferences to curated activity recommendations. Expect to see more AI-powered concierge services.
- Wellness-Focused Stays: The demand for wellness retreats and hotels offering holistic health programs will continue to grow. This includes features like in-room meditation guides, healthy meal options, and access to fitness facilities.
- Sustainable Tourism: Eco-conscious travelers are seeking out hotels committed to sustainable practices, such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting local communities.
- Bleisure Travel Expansion: The blurring lines between business and leisure travel will drive demand for hotels equipped with co-working spaces and amenities catering to remote workers.
- Smart Hotel Technology: Expect wider adoption of smart room technology – keyless entry, voice-activated controls, and personalized entertainment systems – enhancing convenience and the overall guest experience.
The rise of the ‘hocance’ isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s a symptom of a broader shift in Korean travel habits. Consumers are seeking a balance between affordability, convenience, and quality, and hotels are uniquely positioned to deliver on all three fronts.
Pro Tip
Looking for a budget-friendly hocance? Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for lower rates and fewer crowds. Also, explore hotels slightly outside of major city centers for better deals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is a ‘hocance’?
- A ‘hocance’ is a combination of “hotel” and “vacance” (French for vacation), referring to the trend of spending vacations enjoying hotel amenities and services.
- Why are hotels becoming more popular than pensions?
- Hotels offer a consistent level of cleanliness, convenience, and a range of amenities that appeal to modern travelers, especially as mid-range options become more affordable.
- Is cost still a major factor in travel decisions?
- Yes, cost remains the most important factor for many Korean travelers, but they are increasingly willing to spend on hotels that offer good value for money.
- What does the future hold for Korean travel accommodation?
- Expect to see more personalized experiences, a focus on wellness, and the integration of smart technology in hotels.
Did you know? The Travel Corona Index (TCI) is a metric used to track changes in travel patterns and preferences over time, with 100 representing the level of activity in 2019.
Want to learn more about the latest travel trends in Korea? Explore our other articles on Korean tourism. Share your own travel experiences in the comments below!
