Asian Tourists Get Chance to Discover Daegu's Hidden Attractions

A group of so-called "power bloggers" from Asia recently visited Daegu's major points of interest as part of a four-day event to promote the city.

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Eight participants in the tour -- two each from Japan and Hong Kong and four from Taiwan -- are high-profile users of social media, with a combined online following numbering close to 2 million.

They kicked off the tour by splitting into two groups. One group took a bullet train from Seoul, while the other traveled on an express bus from nearby Gyeongju, a historic city in North Gyeongsang Province.

They then visited the city's various tourist attractions including famous sites preserving traces of Korea's modern history, an amusement park and famous alleys, and some less well-known places.

They posted a constant stream of stories on their social media accounts all the while.

They also had a chance to experience Korean cosmetics and beauty products at a skin clinic in downtown Daegu. After being briefed on the latest technological advances in skincare, they received some laser treatment.

"Korea's skin clinics are famous among Hong Kong women, but they only know about the ones in [Seoul's] Gangnam area. I didn't know there were so many clinics in Daegu as well. I hope to visit here again", said one of the travelers from Hong Kong.

The visitors also plunged into the numerous activities on offer at an annual festival in the city, while taking in a parade, visiting a market and gorging themselves on snacks from food trucks.

"Most Taiwanese are only familiar with Myeong-dong and Dongdaemun Market in Seoul. I'm glad to be able to introduce them to new attractions in Daegu, as well as the festival, via Facebook", said one of the Taiwanese travelers. "I plan to keep promoting this city and its many exciting destinations".

"The tour helped us introduce the city's major festival to the world and lure overseas tourists", said Daegu Mayor Kwon Young-jin. "We will continue to make efforts to promote other festivals and events here, along with the city's medical tourism facilities and other attractions".