From 'You Go to Hawaii' to 'I Want to Go': Hawaii's Appeal to Koreans

Hawaii, once famously depicted as a place one might tell a friend to go to in the movie 'Friend' due to its distance and cost, has become a coveted destination for South Koreans. Twenty-five years after the film's release, Hawaii is now a top choice for multi-generational family trips and honeymoons, with a significant majority of young Korean couples encountered in Honolulu being newlyweds.

The allure of Hawaii begins with its stunning natural beauty, particularly its oceans. Waikiki Beach, meaning 'water that spouts,' lives up to its nickname 'heavenly sea' with its mesmerizing shades of blue and emerald. The islands' rich Polynesian heritage is evident in the Hawaiian language, which boasts numerous words for the sea, reflecting a deep connection to the ocean. Hawaii, a U.S. state since 1959, was once ruled by Polynesian people, who preserved their language as a testament to their identity.

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Hawaii is a dream destination for newlyweds. I'm going to try surfing too.

Oahu, home to the capital Honolulu, is the most visited of Hawaii's eight main islands. While Waikiki Beach and activities like surfing and outrigger canoeing are classic draws, newer experiences are emerging. Farm tours, such as those at the Kamanuʻi Cocoa Plantation, offer a taste of local agriculture. Hawaii is the only U.S. state where cacao is grown, and its quality has been recognized internationally, with the Kamanuʻi plantation winning a gold medal at the 'Cacao of Excellence' awards.

Beyond the beaches, Oahu offers dramatic landscapes like Leʻahi, known as Diamond Head. This volcanic crater, whose Hawaiian name means 'forehead of the tuna,' offers panoramic views after a hike up its steep stairs and through old military tunnels. The name 'Diamond Head' originated from British sailors in the 19th century who mistook calcite crystals found on its slopes for diamonds. The crater, formed 100,000 years ago, was a strategic military site before becoming a national monument in 1968.

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It's fun when you ride the waves and stand on the board. I recommend doing it with an instructor.