The Korea Grand Sale Will Be an Anticipated Event in August

The government has announced that the country will hold the Korea Grand Sale early this year. President Park Geun-hye and the other officials have decided during the trade and investment promotion conference that the annual event, which is usually held in winter, will take place on August 21 to October 31, 2015. The previous sale was on December 1, 2014 to February 22, 2015.

This major shopping and tourism festival will benefit both businesses and participants, who mostly comprise tourists and expats. Participating companies will earn higher sales and improve their revenues, especially after more than a month of loss due to the MERS outbreak. On the other hand, foreign residents and overseas visitors can take advantage of great shopping opportunities. Most of all, they get to have a wonderful experience that will incorporate travel and cultural immersion.

One of the nation's best offers is free visa application until September 30 to group travelers from the Philippines, China and Vietnam. The fee generally costs 17,316 won (US$15) per person.

Companies - e.g. Lotte Department Store, Seacloud Hotel, JinJinbara, Foot Locker, etc - will provide big bargains. These include free deals for some items, over 50% discounts, freebies and gifts. Tourists who will apply early for the big sale can obtain extra benefits. There will also be all-inclusive travel packages tying together accommodation and airline deals, among other features. There will be tours combining shopping, culture and arts. There will be small events in between as well, including cultural experiences and a welcome week.

The government is promoting Korea Grand Sale through methods like airport advertising media, private road shows, tours for overseas media and tourism industry officials, and participation in other countries' tourism events. It's also seeking local assistance, particularly from the officials of Jeju, Busan and Seoul. It's planning to use social media, print services and online channels to create content that will introduce the event to an international audience.

There isn't exactly an elaborate reason (from government officials) for holding the country's largest sale/festival early this year. But, hopefully, it will improve the tourism industry. Considering the impact of the MERS outbreak, South Korea needs to make a great effort to regain its footing.