Hong Kong pitches scenic running trails to boost Korean visitor numbers

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has rolled out a fresh campaign aimed at reintroducing Hong Kong as an outdoor destination where urban energy meets nature, collaborating with Korean YouTube channel “Together With Sean” to highlight running routes that connect the city’s skyscrapers, mountains and coastline. In a new video posted on his channel on Feb. 2, singer and marathoner Sean — who leads the running group “Unknown Crew,” which is widely known in Korea for its roster of athletes and entertainers — takes viewers on routes that showcase Hong Kong’s natural and urban charms. The project comes as part of HKTB’s effort to capture the attention of Korea’s growing community of runners and revive travel demand that has dropped off since the pandemic. In the past, Hong Kong was a favorite short-haul getaway for Korean tourists seeking luxury shopping, art districts and urban discovery. Before the pandemic, Korea consistently ranked among the top five sources of non-mainland visitors, helping push the city to a record 65.1 million visitors in 2018. That momentum has yet