Introduction
The best-prepared department in Busan, Korea's first international tourist city
Related qualifications
What is a international Tourist Guide ?
- A tourist guide is a person who possesses diversity, creativity, and expertise. They provide convenience to foreign travelers in Korea by using a foreign language to explain tourist attractions and destinations, or by providing tour guidance.
- The Tourist Guide Certification is the only nationally recognized qualification in the field of interpretation, administered by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, recognizing that tourism, as an industry, significantly impacts the national economy.
Areas of activity and prospects
- Tourist guides work in a wide range of fields, including travel agencies, hotels, airlines, the international travel industry, freelancers, trading companies, and interpreters. Their work extends beyond simply assisting tourists with their travels, extending to cultural exchange and international business.
- Working as a tourist guide offers numerous opportunities to experience the diverse cultures and characteristics of international tourists. They also have opportunities to experience high-end cultures such as cruises, luxury hotels, and international conferences. Furthermore, they offer opportunities to expand their capabilities beyond the traditional role of tourist guide. They also have the opportunity to become interpreters, international medical tourism coordinators, and personal development officers (PCOs).
- The Tourism Promotion Act was revised to require travel agencies targeting international tourists to employ qualified tourist guides. (Article 38, Paragraph 1, newly added as a proviso, partially amended on March 2, 2009)
Certification Acquisition Process
- 01Foreign Language Test
- 02Written Exam
- 03Interview
- 04Registration and Certification Issuance
Eligibility Requirements
- No restrictions (except for those disqualified under Article 7, Paragraph 1 of the Tourism Promotion Act)
Examination schedule
- Once a year (written and practical)
Exam subjects and methods
| Qualification Level | Hour | Exam Subject | Number of Questions | Points | Exam Time | Exam Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Exam | 1st hour |
|
25 |
|
50 minutes | Multiple choice (4-option) |
| 2nd hour |
|
25 |
|
50 minutes | ||
| Second Exam |
|
About 10 to 15 minutes per person | Interview | |||
| Passing criteria |
|
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| Foreign language test |
|
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Implementing agency and contact information
Human Resources Development Service of Korea
Q-Net Tourist Guider
(https://www.q-net.or.kr/man001.do?id=&gId=37&gSite=L)
Department of Tourism and Convention