Seoul: South Korea's content industry exports achieved a record high last year, supported by government policies aimed at nurturing the "K-content" industry as a key growth sector, the culture ministry announced Tuesday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, content exports tentatively reached $14.9 billion in 2025, an increase from $14.1 billion the previous year, as reported by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. The number of overseas tourists visiting South Korea also climbed to a new peak of 18.9 million, up from 16.3 million the previous year.

Additionally, credit card spending by foreigners in South Korea surged to a record $14.1 billion. The ministry attributed this rise to relaxed entry policies and strengthened marketing efforts. During a press conference last week, Culture Minister Chae Hwi-young conveyed the ministry's aim to develop a 400 trillion-won "K-culture" market by 2030, revising the previous target of 300 trillion won.