Tourism in the tropical north is being taken to new heights with the announcement today of new direct flights from Seoul to Cairns for the first time.

Tourism Minister Kate Jones announced Korean airline Jin Air would commence the direct flights in December, with Cairns the first airport in Australia to secure services from the carrier.

Ms Jones said the new flights will operate twice weekly on a seasonal basis through to February 2017.

The flights are expected to generate up to $7.5 million in economic impact and jobs for the local economy.

"With the forecast success of these seasonal services the airline is gearing towards making these flights year-round next year which would deliver $49 million in economic benefit," she said.

Tourism and Events Queensland Chief Executive Leanne Coddington signed a deal for the new flights in Seoul today, while a Jin Air spokesperson said: "Under this MOU, we expect significant synergy in improving the tourism industry and cultural exchanges between the countries."

Member for Barron River Craig Crawford said nearly 2 million international and Australian visitors had ventured to our region in the past 12 months.

"This new seasonal Jin Air flight will provide access for up to 5,000 extra visitors and a year-round service will grow to allow access for up to 41,000 visitors each year," he said.

"Cairns is now only the second Queensland city with direct connections to South Korea, with Korean Air servicing Brisbane year-round."

The new route was secured through Tourism and Events Queensland, Tourism Australia and Cairns Airport.