Cheongju-Fukushima chartered flight commences operation, marking the resumption of Korea-Japan tourism exchange after 13 years
A chartered flight service connecting Cheongju International Airport and Fukushima Airport in Japan began on July 17, 2026. The Korea Tourism Association and Fukushima Prefecture jointly organized this project, with Aero K Airlines participating. Approximately 360 tourists from both countries are participating in this exchange program between regional airports in South Korea and Japan.
180-seat flights across the entire route… connecting Cheongju and Fukushima
According to a report by TTC News, citing a statement from the Korea Tourism Industry Association, on July 17th, 180 Korean tourists departed from Cheongju Airport on an Aero K flight and arrived at Fukushima Airport. On the same day, 180 Japanese tourists also visited Korea via Cheongju Airport.
Aero K Airlines announced that all round-trip seats on this special flight were sold. The flight arriving at Cheongju Airport carried 178 Japanese tourists, confirming the potential for increased demand from Japanese tourists visiting Korea through regional airports.
Direct exchange program after 13 years since the Great East Japan Earthquake
This flight is significant because it marks the resumption of direct flights from South Korea to Fukushima, operated by a Korean airline, carrying Korean tourists, following the Great East Japan Earthquake and the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident. According to a report in the Japan Tourism News, this is the first time a Korean airline has operated flights to Fukushima Airport in approximately 13 years, since 2013.
This chartered flight operated as a travel package rather than selling individual tickets. It was designed as a two-way program, attracting tourists departing from South Korea and visitors traveling from Japan to South Korea. This model is considered effective for simultaneously expanding tourism to the Fukushima area and inbound tourism to the Chungcheong region.
Potential for tourism and exchange centered on regional airports
The Cheongju-Fukushima chartered flight is an example of how international tourism demand, which is currently concentrated in airports in the Seoul metropolitan area, can be distributed to regional airports. Cheongju Airport can serve as a gateway to connect with tourist attractions in the Chungcheong region, and can be utilized to attract Japanese tourists and develop regional travel products.
The Korea Tourism Industry Association stated that this project supports the development of products and revenue generation for regional member companies, and that it expands the choices for tourists by offering both package tours and individual travel options. If flights continue in the future, the benefits can spread to related industries such as accommodation, transportation, and restaurants, in addition to the airline and travel industries.
Safety information to check when traveling to Fukushima
Fukushima Prefecture is promoting its natural scenery, hot springs, historical and cultural sites, local cuisine, and fruit orchards as its main tourist attractions. The official Fukushima tourism information website provides regional tourism content, including information about the Aizu region, the central part of the prefecture, and the Pacific coastal area.
It is advisable for travelers to check the latest travel guidelines from the Japanese and Korean governments before their visit, as well as information on local restricted areas, flight schedules, and official information related to food and water. The Japanese Reconstruction Agency states that it conducts radiation monitoring on agricultural, forestry, and marine products from Fukushima Prefecture before they are shipped and publishes the results of the inspections.
October Additional Flights and Regional Economic Impact
According to a report in the Japan Tourism News, the chartered flight service between Cheongju and Fukushima is scheduled to include an additional flight. The flight is planned to depart on October 9, 2026, and return on October 12. This additional flight, combined with the flights planned for July, will result in a total of two round-trip services.
If the additional flights continue stably, it will be possible to simultaneously increase the number of Korean tourists visiting Fukushima and the number of Japanese tourists visiting the Chungcheong region. However, the schedule for charter flights may vary depending on the sale of travel packages and air travel demand, so it is necessary to check the latest announcements from travel agencies and airlines before making a reservation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When did the first chartered flight between Cheongju and Fukushima operate?
The first flight took place on July 17, 2026. Aero K Airlines operates flights connecting Cheongju International Airport and Fukushima Airport.
How many people were on board the first voyage?
A total of 360 tourists, comprising 180 South Korean tourists departing for Fukushima and 180 Japanese tourists arriving at Cheongju International Airport on the same day, participated in tourism exchange between the two countries.
Are the Fukushima chartered flights regular flights?
This flight is a non-scheduled charter flight, not a regular route. The flight schedule and the number of seats available for sale may vary depending on the airline and the operation of travel products.
Will chartered flights between Cheongju and Fukushima continue to operate in October?
Additional round-trip flights are scheduled to depart on October 9, 2026, and return on October 12, 2026. Please check the latest announcements before booking to confirm the actual flight schedule and product sales dates.
What should you check before traveling to Fukushima?
It is advisable to check the latest travel guidelines, restricted areas, flight operation information, and accommodation and transportation schedules. Information regarding food and water should be obtained from official sources of the Korea-China travel industry and relevant Japanese authorities.
