'Protests affect only some areas,' France tourism office says as Seoul event draws 540 business meetings

French Days in Seoul 2026 held amid protests in France

Unrest described as localized, not nationwide

Korea praised for stability and market potential

540 business consultations conducted at event

Jeong Hye-won, director of the France Tourism Office Korea, speaks at the French Days in Seoul 2026 event. [Kim Myung-sang]

"Disruptions in some areas do not represent the situation across France or at all tourist destinations. Major tourism services are operating normally overall."

Jeong Hye-won, director of the France Tourism Office Korea, made the remarks Wednesday at a media workshop and luncheon held at Ambassador Seoul Pullman Hotel in Jung-gu, Seoul, addressing concerns over the large-scale protests that have recently taken place in France.

The event, French Days in Seoul 2026, was organized by the France Tourism Office to mark the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between France and South Korea. It was designed to share the latest tourism trends from French regions and strengthen ties between the two countries' travel industries. Twenty-five major French tourism businesses — including regional tourism boards, castles, hotels and department stores — participated, conducting 540 business consultations with South Korean travel industry representatives and media.

Jeong opened the welcome address by speaking directly to concerns about safety and public order in France. Large-scale protests erupted in major French cities on Oct. 17 and Oct. 24 over socioeconomic issues including rising prices, with incidents of violence and property damage reported in some areas.

"The French government is implementing measures to restore public order," Jeong said. "While temporary restrictions on transportation and facility operations may occur in some areas, traveler safety remains the top priority, and we will continue to provide accurate on-the-ground information through official channels."

The France Tourism Office said that, separate from the current situation, quantitative indicators for the tourism industry continue to show growth. According to the office, France attracted about 102 million international tourists in 2025, retaining its position as the world's most visited country. International tourism revenue for the same period reached a record high of 77.5 billion euros ($86.4 billion), a 9 percent increase from the previous year.

The workshop venue for French Days in Seoul 2026. [Provided by France Tourism Office]

The France Tourism Office also outlined plans to expand cultural and sports content through major projects scheduled for 2027. Key initiatives include the Rouen Armada maritime festival in Normandy, the Millennium 2027 Norman Year in Europe, the reopening of Paris science museum Palais de la Découverte, the opening of Centre Pompidou Francilien in the nearby suburb of Massy, and the 2027 UCI Road World Championships in the Alps' Haute-Savoie.

The presentation on France's 2027 plans was followed by an assessment of South Korea's standing as a key hub in Asia. Attendees expressed a positive view of the market's consistent resilience, noting that demand has held steady without a sharp decline despite external uncertainties.

Anne-Laure Tuncer, regional director for Asia at the France Tourism Office, said South Korea is "an extremely attractive market as a business partner, with clear decision-making and smooth communication." Tuncer added that it is "a very stable core market where travel demand has consistently held up without a sharp drop, even amid global volatility."

French participating companies pose for a group photo at French Days in Seoul 2026. [Provided by France Tourism Office]

In line with the growing cultural and artistic exchange between the two countries, the France Tourism Office said it plans to actively develop theme-based travel content linking history and festivals. The office aims to diversify its product offerings so travelers can experience local culture in depth, going beyond simple sightseeing. It also plans to share key on-the-ground information — including updates on protests and traffic controls — quickly with South Korea's travel industry to reinforce trust through transparent communication.

"France consistently presents new cultural content and experiences, built on its long history and cultural heritage," Jeong said. "We will continue to deliver reliable travel information through close cooperation with South Korea's travel industry and media."

That evening, a gala dinner titled "Christmas in Loire Valley" and the third France Awards were held as official events marking the 140th anniversary of France-Korea diplomatic relations. French Ambassador to South Korea Michel Miraillet and officials from both countries attended, with the occasion featuring an introduction to Loire Valley cuisine and wine. At the France Awards, which recognize industry contributions to tourism promotion, Charles Entertainment was selected for the newly established Creator Special Achievement Award. Naeil Tour won in the innovative French products category, while Very Good Tour, Hanjin Travel and Modetournetworkinc each received awards in the France tourism development contribution category.

terry@heraldcorp.com