Japanese payment brand JCB is rolling out bigger perks for Koreans traveling to Japan, aiming to capture demand as visits near the 10 million mark.
Founded in Tokyo in 1961, JCB now counts more than 175 million cardholders and a merchant network of over 71 million locations worldwide. In Korea, seven card issuers — Shinhan, Hana, KB Kookmin, Lotte, NongHyup, Woori, and Samsung — partner with JCB to issue its cards.
On the 26th, JCB unveiled new premium services at an event in Jung-gu, Seoul — the company’s first such event since entering the Korean market 20 years ago.
Takahiko Watanabe, head of JCB Card International’s Korean branch, said, “Korea is one of JCB’s most important strategic markets. Travel trends have shifted from ‘products’ to ‘experiences,’ and we want to offer practical, experience-based ways to enjoy Japan.”
Nearly 9.5 million Koreans visited Japan last year — close to the 10 million milestone. This year, departures to Japan topped 1 million in both January and February.
The new perks include a monthly lottery inviting 50 people to Universal Studios Japan (USJ); 10% cashback on contactless payments for public transportation in Japan; a ¥20,000 (about $134) minimum purchase at Don Quijote that earns a ¥1,000 (about $6.70) cashback; 10% cashback at popular Japanese restaurants; and priority check-in plus priority baggage handling with ZIPAIR, the JAL Group’s international low-cost carrier.
These services will be available starting April 1 for holders of JCB Prestige Platinum cards issued in Korea.
Until now, JCB’s Korea benefits centered on rest spaces like the Universal Studios Japan lounge and airport lounges in Japan. With this premium revamp, practical perks — attraction tickets and mall discounts that reflect where Koreans actually go — have been added. Existing offers such as the premium dining buy-one-get-one program and priority boarding for Universal Studios attractions will continue.
Ho-seong Song, head of JCB Card International’s Korean office, highlighted the card’s edge over rivals: “JCB’s benefits far exceed the overseas-fee waivers other card issuers offer. JCB is Japan’s largest acquirer and maintains close ties with major Japanese merchants.”
That said, analysts warn that a prolonged conflict in the Middle East has pushed up oil prices, which could soften travel demand for now. With domestic competition among travel cards intensifying, the industry will be watching whether Japan-focused perks can successfully draw travelers.
Kim Shin-young, Reporter
