Foreign tourists pack the Myeong-dong shopping district of Seoul's Jung-gu District. (Korea.net DB)

By Kim Seon Ah

The Seoul Metropolitan Government is boosting efforts to attract foreign tourists, taking advantage of upcoming extended holidays in Japan, which has Silver Week from Sept. 19-23, and China, whose National Day/Golden Week break is from Oct. 1-7.

The city on Sept. 15 announced the 23-day program Seoul Welcome Week: Autumn Edition from Sept. 19 through Oct. 11. This promotion will be jointly hosted with the Seoul Tourism Organization and the Seoul Tourism Association at locations including airports and the shopping area of Myeong-dong.

Tourist information centers at the Incheon and Gimpo international airports will distribute on a first-come, first-served basis the heritage edition of the Discover Seoul Pass. The card enables free admission to 12 major national heritage sites including the Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty, Seoul's four main palaces and Jongmyo Shrine as well as discounts at approximately 110 participating facilities.

The Seoul Welcome Center, to run near Myeongdong Station from Oct. 1-8, will provide tourism information, interpretation in English, Chinese and Japanese, and programs like K-pop performances and lucky draws.

Visitors can also experience traditional culture at Seoul Culture Lounge in the city's Jongno-gu District like learning traditional dance and making songpyeon, or rice cakes shaped like a half moon. Seoul Cruise will also offer a 20% discount on tickets for themed rides on the city's scenic Hangang River.

sofiakim218@korea.kr