Comparative Analysis of Domestic and International Research Trends on Memorable Tourism Experiences(MTE)

Purpose This study compares domestic and international research trends on Memorable Tourism Experience (MTE), identifies Korean research directions, and suggests future strategies. MTE’s psychological and behavioral impact on tourists has gained increasing academic and practical attention. The need to understand how tourism experiences affect psychological wellbeing and behavioral responses is also growing. Methods Twenty-six domestic studies published between 2010 and 2024 were collected via Google Scholar, and five international review articles since 2020(Bai et al., 2023; Dahanayake et al., 2024; Hosany et al., 2022; Hosseini et al., 2021; Sinaga et al., 2024) were analyzed. Studies were compared based on conceptual application, topic expansion, and digital integration. International research increasingly reflects cultural contexts and technological changes in interpreting MTE. Results Domestic studies mostly use quantitative methods based on Kim et al.(2012)’s MTE scale to analyze satisfaction, behavioral intention, and loyalty. Recently, topics have expanded to emotional recall, well-being, and smart tourism. However, many studies remain variable-centered, with limited focus on emotional and cognitive structures. International studies emphasize conceptual refinement and include emotional and digital experience elements. Conclusion Future Korean research should deepen theoretical and practical contributions by addressing emotional structures, cultural contexts, and digital transitions. Identifying new topics reflecting technological changes and evolving experiential patterns is also necessary. This study provides comparative insights and foundational directions for future MTE research.