Guam eyes Malaysian market; Korean Air plans to expand flight service
- Admin
- Jul 14
- 2 min read
By Pacific Island Times News Staff
The Guam Visitors Bureau is targeting Malaysia in its pursuit of new markets for tourism, while Korea is picking up with a plan to add another flight to the island.
With a population of over 34 million, Malaysia is listed in the Guam-CNMI visa waiver program, allowing travelers from this Asian country to enter Guam visa-free.
Teaming up with Philippine Airlines and local industry stakeholders, GVB hosted a familiarization tour for a delegation of Malaysian travel, tour agents and media representatives from June 25 to 28.
"The success of this FAM tour marks a significant step forward in GVB’s strategy to expand its reach in new markets and reinforce Guam’s position as a top-tier destination for international travelers," said Régine Biscoe Lee, GVB CEO and president.
"We fully intend to work closely with our airline partners and promote visa-free travel to Guam in more exempt countries."
The Malaysia FAM tour is the second hosted by GVB since the pandemic.
GVB said it plans to develop more promotional activities tapping the Malaysian market, while discussions for direct flights to Guam are underway.
“The comprehensive FAM tour provided agents with an immersive experience of Guam's unique attractions, encompassing various island tour sites, thrilling adventures, and rich cultural activities,” GVB said.
“The goal was to equip the agents with firsthand knowledge and insights into what Guam has to offer, enabling them to effectively promote the island to Malaysian residents seeking diverse and exciting vacation destinations.”
As for the Korean market, the governor’s office recently announced that Korean Air has agreed to increase the number of night flights from Incheon to Guam from one to two flights per day.
“Guam is a favorite destination for Korean visitors, and we want to create more opportunities to welcome them here,” Gov. Leon Guerrero said after meeting with Korean Air leadership.
“Whether it’s adding new routes, working with travel agents, or supporting promotions with our tourism partners, we are committed to strengthening our tourism industry and economy," she added.
The governor urged the Guam legislature to appropriate the funding necessary to provide Korean Air with incentives.
Korean Air conducts regular promotion campaigns and recently brought 103 top travel agents to Guam for a three-night, four-day stay.
The governor also confirmed that low-cost carrier Air Busan is working on opening direct flights from Busan to Guam.
Korean Air confirmed that, although its merger with Asiana Airlines is not yet complete, multiple subsidiaries, including Air Busan, are expected to consolidate into two major carriers by the end of 2026
“More seats mean more opportunities for our tourism industry, more support for local businesses, and greater access for our residents to the world,” said Lt. Gov. Josh Tenorio. "The investments we make today in expanding air service are about securing a brighter, more connected future for Guam.”
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