Seoul, South Korea – Driven by the popularity of the netflix animated series ”K-Pop Demon Hunters,” searches for cultural destinations like museums, temples, and conventional markets have surged this summer, according to data analyzed by T-Map Mobility. the National Museum of Korea saw a 122.7% year-over-year increase in T-Map searches during July and August, with overall museum and memorial search volume jumping 2.4 times compared to the same period last year.
The surge at the National Museum of Korea is attributed, in part, to the “Keemheon” affect - a reference to merchandise related to the animated series becoming highly sought after. Both Korean and international visitors have flocked to the museum’s official goods store.
Visits to temples increased 45.2% year-over-year, with Naksansa Temple in Yangyang and Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju being popular destinations. Traditional markets also experienced a 28% increase in search volume, with Sokcho Tourism Fisheries Market, Gangneung Central Market, and Jumunjin Fisheries Market remaining top draws, and markets like Ganghwa Pungmul Market and Danyang Salvation Market gaining prominence.
“As movement has increased around museums, temples, and markets, interest in K-heritage has become clearer in everyday life,” a T-Map Mobility official stated.
