Quick answer: Since 9 October 2026 the Korea Tourism Organization has run an AI tourism concierge in traditional markets, reached by QR code, with maps, crowd levels, menu translation into 10 languages and live interpretation in 34. Explera DMC Korea uses it to give groups more confident free time in markets such as Mangwon and Haeundae.
What is the AI tourism concierge?
It is a Korea Tourism Organization service for foreign visitors in traditional markets. Visitors scan QR codes posted around the market; no app or account is needed. It shows shops, toilets and parking on a map, suggests routes, and estimates crowd levels and waiting times at popular stalls using CCTV and LiDAR sensors.
Korean menus can be translated into 10 languages with a phone camera, and conversations with traders can be interpreted in real time in 34 languages.
Which markets have it?
- From 9 October 2026: Mangwon Market in Seoul, Haeundae Market in Busan and Suwon Nammun Market.
- Due by the end of October: Gyeongdong Market in Seoul, Andong Gu Market and Danyang Gugyeong Market.
How does it change market free time?
- Fewer stuck guests. Menu translation and interpretation help guests order on their own.
- Better timing. Crowd data helps a guide pick a quieter hour or a less busy aisle.
- Still a meeting point. We set a fixed meeting point and time; the service does not replace the guide.
Planned with the agent
Explera DMC Korea builds market visits into city programmes in Seoul, Busan, Suwon, Andong and Danyang, with guides and coaches confirmed together.
Send your dates, pax and requirements to b2b@explera.kr or WhatsApp +66 93 656 8090. Explera DMC Korea is IATA TIDS-registered (96215733) and an ASTA member (#900408341); our KTO and KATA registrations are in application.
Where this fits in our Korea programmes
The pages below carry the operational detail behind this briefing.
- Services: Tours & activities in Korea · Guide services in Korea · Group travel & GIT in Korea
- Destinations: Seoul · Busan · Gyeongju
Frequently asked questions
Do guests need to download an app?
No. The service opens from QR codes posted around the market, with no app or account.
Which languages does it cover?
Korean menus are translated into 10 languages, and live interpretation with traders covers 34 languages.
Which markets have the service?
Mangwon Market, Haeundae Market and Suwon Nammun Market from 9 October 2026, with Gyeongdong Market, Andong Gu Market and Danyang Gugyeong Market due by the end of October.
Does it replace a guide?
No. It helps guests during free time, but we still brief the group and set a meeting point and time.
