For millions of pop-culture enthusiasts around the world, catching ’em all is a lifelong pursuit. Now, Korea’s tourism authorities are betting that the world’s highest-grossing media franchise can help them capture the interest of a few million more international visitors. The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) signed a formal partnership with Pokémon Korea, Monday, to harness the global megabrand for regional travel promotion. By pairing Nintendo’s iconic pocket monsters with local cultural sites, officials hope to disperse tourist traffic beyond the heavily trodden streets of the capital and into the country's lesser-visited provinces. The centerpiece of the collaboration aligns with "Pokémon Mega Festa 2026," a global celebration marking the 30th anniversary of the franchise's origin. From Sept. 18 through Oct. 11, HiKR Ground — the KTO's multi-story immersive travel center in central Seoul — will undergo a total Pokémon takeover. Visitors navigating the venue's first three floors will encounter custom exhibitions and photo zones featuring Pikachu outfitted in traditiona